I don't think there is a thread like this so I thought I would start one :)
The "recordings to die for" thread is very interesting, but not much use for those of us who are only into classical. At the moment i'm trying to build up my SACD collection before the whole format goes bust. Hopefully my SACD buying efforts might PREVENT the format from going bust!
This list is for SACD's ONLY.
Anyway, here is my list:
[url=]http://www.sa-cd.net/showreviews/1412]Cantate Domino[/url] has been in the library of every audiophile who is into classical music for years. I had a LP, CD, and now it has been reissued on SACD. This disc is a collection of traditional Christmas music sung in a Swedish accent. The transfer is first rate, the sound quality is excellent. The church acoustic is captured brilliantly but on some tracks you can hear passing traffic.
Elly Ameling sings Schubert Lieder. Schubert was the greatest writer of lieder, and Ameling was one of the greatest lieder singers in modern times. She has a sweet, approachable, and friendly voice. The recording and transfer is very good, but not up to the standard of an audiophile disc. A thoroughly enjoyable disc.
Beethoven Symphony No. 7 - Carlos Kleiber / Bayerisches Staatsorchester. In the field of crowded Beethoven offerings this one stands out. The recording is incredibly good, with preserved instrumental timbres and a real sense of the orchestral texture and scale. The performance is absolutely compelling. This is a rare combination of a first rate recording and a first rate performance.
Bach Sonatas and Partitas - Julia Fischer. Fischer is one of the more exciting young violinists today. Compared to my other versions of the Bach sonatas (Szeryng, Heifetz, and Suk), Fischer is more liberal with her tempi but also more articulate with her playing. Her violin has a mellow, sweet sound which never sounds harsh. The recording is up to Pentatone's usual standard.
Beethoven Violin Concerto, Mendelssohn Violin Concerto - Heifetz / Munch / Boston SO. A stunning reissue of this classic disc. Heifetz is at his best - superb playing which does not go overboard. The Boston SO under Munch keeps up with the high standard of Heifetz' playing. Very well recorded.
