Before files and when there were audio shows, I used to bring this one with me for demos/tests.
One recording for system evaluation?
- Thread starter Gregadd
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Sort of reminds ne of the Lays potato chip commercial. "i betcha can't eat just one."
I love orchestra and choir. There is jsut so much going on.
Yes, I do too. They can be difficult to record or I haven't had luck finding great ones.
I actually find this LP excellent. Boult introduces each instrument of the orchestra, explains what it is and what it does, and sometimes why it is used. Then these introductions are followed by sections from famous works featuring the instruments being played by his orchestra. Hearing the compass of each of the instruments in isolation and then playing well known music passages makes for great variety. It is very helpful for hearing the timbre of each instrument.
One can also make out scale and localization around the stage. The recording quality is excellent.
One can also make out scale and localization around the stage. The recording quality is excellent.
May I nominate Mahler 2 , for dynamic range, scale (large orchestra), vocals, etc.
Live recordings by the BBC of Tennstedt conducting the LPO are excellent performances & erasonably well recorded
There is also a dramatic live rendition by Klemperer conducting the Concertgebouw (on EMI I think).
Live recordings by the BBC of Tennstedt conducting the LPO are excellent performances & erasonably well recorded
There is also a dramatic live rendition by Klemperer conducting the Concertgebouw (on EMI I think).
There is a world in which Mahler 2 is the answer to many questions.
From my experience, any well recorded and dynamic piano recording will immediately reveal most of the system’s qualities.
Solo piano as you describe really is a test. To make that test even harder, add a soprano.
A piano is quite the challenge. "well recorded" is quite the accomplishment. I am often amazed by the subtle nuance of live piano.
A lot of them, but not most. For separation of instruments you need orchestral, for timbral micro-detail you need solo violin and saxophone (yes, piano is revealing there too, but you need other references as well), for rhythm & timing you need good jazz and/or rock, etc. etc.
But yes, I will grant that *at least* one piano recording is an absolute *must* for system evaluation.
The klemperer original is fantastic and was recorded without delimiters so the dynamic range is extremely high.
I am referring to the original LP. The effect will not be the same on other media.
Mahler's 2nd was a signature piece for Otto Klemperer. His 1963 recording from EMI/Angel made in Kingsway Hall London with the Philharmonia Orchestra features Elisabeth Schwarzkopf and Hilde Rossl-Majdan and continues since that day as a thriller.
My copy is from Pathe Marconi (French EMI). 2C181-00570/1 (gorgeous cover)
Of it, somewhat famous Mahler critic/commenter Tony Duggan writes:
"This is an essential recording for any collection: the greatest interpretation of Mahler's Second ever placed before the public, made under ideal studio conditions ...." Review.
The Klemperer is more frequently found with a cover similar to this below. The branding across the top may be Columbia or Angel - 2 albums. I've seen the packaging with two separate covers or as one. COLUMBIA SAX 2473 2474, ANGEL 3634.
There is also an EMI UK release as a box with a picture of Klemperer smoking a cigar on the cover. SLS-806.
Then there is Bruno Walter on Columbia with the New York Philharmonic. I find this an extraordinarily power-filled/gripping/compelling performance and it could be my regular favorite but for the typically crackly vinyl that seems more the rule than the exception for Columbia classical issuances. (Their jazz always seemed to fair better - don't know why.) For optimal sound it really should be played using the Columbia playback curve. M2S 601 (stereo) M2L 256 (mono 6 eye). Truly an unforgettable performance from a man who knew GM personally.
Lastly I'll mention the Mahler 2nds from Leonard Bernstein. He made at least two separate recordings, one for Columbia, one for DG, both with the New York Phil.. Both are worthy of your attention.
Columbia Masterworks M2L 295 (mono)
Sony Classical 88985389241 - stereo reissue.
Not that long ago Sony released this as part of their 15 LP Mahler box set with original covers. This quickly went oop but I see a few sealed sets on discogs at not insane cost. Can also be purchased as a single album.
DG 423 395-2 or 423 395-1 / 423 396-1 / 423 397-1 (?)
This is part of the reissue of individual Mahler symphonies by Analogphonic. All feature cover art from Romain de Tirtoff (known as Erté.) A nice 2-LP box. What is cool about this issuance is the recordings are live. I had some issues with the opening on certain cartridges, but the vdH Master Sig sailed right through. Wonderful full bass lines at the start, worth it for those alone. This particular LP issuance has risen in price. DK if Analogphonic will make more.
If you choose but one Mahler 2 for your single record evaluator these are worth consideration.
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