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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.
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merlinus
44 posts
 
I recently acquired the Japanese SACD of HvK 1962 LvB No. 3, and was blown away by the recording, both SQ and performance.

Easily the best Eroica I have ever heard.
lloydelee21
1,202 posts
 
Congrats, Merlinus! I was pretty impressed by the 'regular remastered hybrid SACD set' of his 9 symphonies from the '63 era. Enjoy! I admit i listen to von Karajan the most for all but the 9th where i enjoy Harnancourts' version quite a lot.
goofyfoot's avatar
goofyfoot
1,371 posts
 
Loydelee, have you seen the Furtwangler box set from Audite. Here's the website; http://www.arkivmusic.com/classical/album.jsp?album_id=220926
I also have the Paavo Jarvi cycle on CD. They were released on vinyl also.
lloydelee21
1,202 posts
 
Goofyfoot. Thank you! Yes, i own that set among other individual CDs...there were still a few CDs i went after individually from specialst remastering companies (Tahra from France) who had done some of his top rated symphonies.

Enjoy them all. What do you think of the Jarvi cycle in comparison with Furtwangler or von Karajan? I would not mind finding a more intimate, exquisite smaller ensemble Beethoven symphony (just for something different). Neville Marinner?
newbee
4,767 posts
 
Lloyddelee, Have you considered Harnoncourt's cycle? Don't be put off by the fact that it is HIP. It is, but not to the extreme. I like it a lot. Much more in fact than most of the slow, grand, performances. It got pretty good reviews and is highly regarded.

BTW, while not small scale, Bernsteins performances are fine - they will keep your toe tapping. :-)
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