I agree that orchestra string sections can be a real bee-otch when it comes to reproduction at home. I admit to having a Prima Luna Prologue as well, and it's gotten me closer to anything I ever got from trannies. My modestly priced NOLA Boxers also go a long way in providing convincing string tone.
Then again, the original recording is absolutely crucial. Oddly, I've largely gotten better string tone from my domestic Angel Records than I get from German or British HMVs. I enjoy Philips orchestral recordings more than I should, as well. Some of the Academy of St. Martin-in-the-Fields recordings are outstanding. I love my London/Decca records, too. DGG recordings are more miss than hit but the performances are often too superlative to pass up. Then there's Bruno Walter's Columbia Symphony Orchestra recordings.
Then again, the original recording is absolutely crucial. Oddly, I've largely gotten better string tone from my domestic Angel Records than I get from German or British HMVs. I enjoy Philips orchestral recordings more than I should, as well. Some of the Academy of St. Martin-in-the-Fields recordings are outstanding. I love my London/Decca records, too. DGG recordings are more miss than hit but the performances are often too superlative to pass up. Then there's Bruno Walter's Columbia Symphony Orchestra recordings.