best sound for a classical and jazz cd

thanks for the suggestions.

Almost anything from ECM sounds great.

Blue Note.

I find the sound of 90% of my Blue Note CD's to lack sonic weight overall. They as I like to describe, "lack meat on the bones." Of the ones I have, there are only one or two exceptions. It can be a little disappointing. Also, the highs tend to be accentuated above the remainder of the sonic spectrum. The music and artists however, are mandatory as part of any jazz collection.

I tend to agree with your thoughts on Blue Note recordings, esp those from the 50-60s, but I have always liked this quality. Simple and direct with a minimum of manipulation. It has also allowed the sound to be 'improved' using modern technology. But, as you implied, the music is so great that to criticize it borders on nit-picking. On the other hand, some music is so badly recorded, that no technology can fix it. Motown is the most infamous example of this.

BTW, just rediscovered this one.

The First Esquire Concert
LaserLight 15 723

Recorded at the MET in 1944 (war bond drive)

Has to be the greatest Jazz line up for one gig in history. Billie Holiday in her prime is worth the purchase. Check it out. Sound is ok given the times.