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Beethoven Symphonies - best perf + sonics on CD

My CD's of Beethoven's symphonies were all issued in the late 80's or early 90's and sound flat and two-dimensional, with a back-of-the-house perspective. Vinyl is more dynamic but I can't tolerate the surface noise during the quiet passages. So, fellow A'gon members, I'm looking for your suggestions for the best sounding (good tone, big dynamics, front row perspective) and most thrilling performances of Beethoven symphonies on redbook CD. Thanks in advance for your suggestions.
crazee01
brownsfan
1,508 posts
 
Al, Have you heard the Toscanini 1952 (NBCSO) recording of the 2nd? It is aural seratonin with just a dash of dopamine. Pure joy!
almarg's avatar
almarg
9,670 posts
 
Brownsfan, no I haven't heard it, but it's now on my to be acquired list. Thanks!

Best regards,
-- Al
brownsfan
1,508 posts
 
Al, http://www.amazon.com/Brahms-Four-Symphonies-Symphony-Orchestra/dp/B00000JPCE/ref=sr_1_4?s=music&ie=UTF8&qid=1361549900&sr=1-4
All 4 Brahms symphonies for ~ $20. Digitally remastered. The 2nd is the one that really stands out here. I think it is my favorite Brahms 2. Sound is about as good as you can expect for that era.
goofyfoot's avatar
goofyfoot
1,388 posts
 
Can anyone recommend one of the Japanese re-masters or validate its quality based on price comparison? Speaking of von Karajan, I've been cogitating over the Sibelius 2nd and Finlandia but for $80.00?

http://store.acousticsounds.com/d/80474/Herbert_von_Karajan-Sibelius_Symphony_No_2-Hybrid_Stereo_SACD
lloydelee21
1,202 posts
 
I have the '63 von Karajan 9 Symphonies Remastered which is much better in sound quality than the earlier '63 set. I also have the entire Furtwanger Berlin set, plus a few choice individual ones from '53 (Vienna)...each carefully remsastered by specialist archival guys in France, Tahra, as well as Orfeo, Audite. They are great interpretations for me...but the sound quality is still lacking compared to great recordings/masterings. I also have the Harnoncourt set...the 9th is something else...very rich and romantic if you want a sweeping 9th...quite a lot of fun. my two cents.
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