Beethoven Symphonies - best perf + sonics on CD

The sound on the Gardiner recording is not the best, no. However, the interpretations/performances are fantastic. The set is definitely a must have in that regard - it is by far the best performances on period instruments - much of the playing is really incredible.

Thanks Goofyfoot and Learsfool,

I am getting tempted now! I do like his Missa Solemnis.

Does anyone know if the Gardiner Beethoven 5 CD Collectors Edition Archive re-release is any different from the original?

These look nice;

http://www.arkivmusic.com/classical/album.jsp?album_id=733459

Always interested in groups in or around my former short term town of Köln, De.

Chewwwws!

I just listened to the Gardiner 'Eroica' and I must admit that it is a remarkable performance. I read some of Gardiner's comments online about the symphonies concerning authoritative sources and Beethoven's own markings and notes and the fact that throughout history, most of these documents were overlooked or ignored. I want to add also that most of the musicians available during Beethoven's lifetime were inconsistent when it came to their levels of technique and musicianship and that additional instrumentalists could be added to or taken away from a performance based on a performers ability. Adding in parts was often an undertaking that was done by the orchestra director. So, the hard and fast rules that we observe today were not really understood in either the 18th or the 19th century.

Thank you! I have read somewhere a strong preference for
Gardiner over the Academy of Ancient Music Beethoven Symphonies. Same forMackerras whose historical Mozart symphonies are apparently great.