Bach's Mass in B Minor: What is best CD out there?

Sugarbie, the Herreweghe definetly has that "orginal intrrument" sound to it. Which i don't care for as well. And the chorus section is not even close to the Chorus performance in the Schreier/Leipzig recording. There are 2 Schreier/Leipzig recordings. Get the one i recommend up above.

Hogwood and Pinnock are the other 2 "authentic" recordings that just don't do anything for me. Tweekerman

Though I agree with Sugarbrie and Aida on the sound of the "historical instrumentation" recordings (Hornoncourt and Gardiner), I have to agree with Mrwigglewm's recommendation on the Bach here. The Herreweghe recording does not sound like other "orginal intrument" orchestras. But you definetly do not want the orchestra to present the music with the expression like a Beethoven symphony, like a modern orchestra. Bach did not write for large orchestra. Herreweghe's conducting definetly draws you into the music and time stops. Aida's recommendation of the Hengelbrook/Barockorchestra definetly looks worth checking out as another "must-have". The Schreier/Leipzig may be of interest as well. Tweekerman

Schreier/Leipzig takes the Gold. The Leipzig chorus is definetly better than the Herreweghe. Schreier's recording is pleasing in all areas. Now Sugarbrie's recommendation on Philpls label i did not like much. The one i prefered is on Berlin Classics 2123. Its a deferent orchestra and chorus. His recording of the Mozart Requiem on Philips I did not like that much either. Tweek