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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
 
Goofyfoot, I had my eye on that Brahms set for a long time prior to its release. I got the impression from one review I read that it might be along the same lines as the Macarras set on Telarc, which is OK but is not necessarily what I like in Brahms. Maybe this is worth a 2nd look. I take it this is a set you recommend highly.
goofyfoot's avatar
goofyfoot
1,407 posts
 
Brownsfan, I can't recommend it highly just yet (not until I own it at least) but one of the reviews (possibly on ArkivMusic) highly favors this performance over any of the other period recordings. Apparently, Manze had done some extensive research and only used it to his advantage. Also, CPO is one of my favorite labels for its clarity of sound and its open soundstage.
I do own a Manze recording of him conducting Mozart with the English Consort and it's delightful.
I'll just have to do some creative financing to cover the cost, but that will be a couple weeks from now.
lloydelee21
1,202 posts
 
Well, the Hogwood AAM Beethoven cycle arrived today...early! 1st, 3rd and 5th are really great. listening to 5th now...i really like this set so far. Very well paced, both contemplative, taking its time and yet filled with energy...all of which is very nicely recorded. he keeps the tension nicely taut thru the 5th so far. not bombastic but with a dynamism that is fun to enjoy. And again, nice recording.
brownsfan
1,508 posts
 
Goofyfoot, The review I read was on SACD.net. I got the idea it was another post HIP run of the mill me too. I do agree on CPO. Check out the Dvorak quartets. I love the first release. Also, I really like Venzago's Bruckner, and plan on ordering the upcoming Teleman St. Lukas Passion. Its a great label.
Brahms, I can love uber Teutonic, i can love lyricissimo Italian, but I can't warm up to anemic Brahms. If you order this and find it to your liking, let me know. For now, I'm hoping the Polini/Theileman/DSO portends much more Brahms, even if it has to come on Deutche Gramophone. What I heard Sunday in Chicago won me over. I loved that Brahms 4!
lowrider57's avatar
lowrider57
5,418 posts
 
Agree, Lloydelee21. Very dynamic and very well paced. It's on L'Oiseau-Lyre, so naturally the sound is first-rate.
I wasn't sure about buying this HIP cycle; it's not widely reviewed, so I bought them all individually(used) and I'm glad I did.
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