Live vs Recording

Re phase inversion switches: A point that should be kept in mind is that when the setting of the switch is changed not only is the signal being inverted, but the configuration of the circuit that is being used within the component is also being changed. In some designs an active stage might even be inserted or removed as a function of the switch position, with significant sonic consequences.

Perhaps that kind of design dependency is one reason opinions tend to be divided about the efficacy and usefulness of phase inversion switches. In addition, of course, to the differences in approaches to mic'ing and mixing that occur among different recordings, genres, labels, etc.

Regards,
-- Al

Thanks, Schubert. I neglected to mention, btw, that Brahms 1st is, simply put, my favorite symphony. I don't own and haven't heard the Klemperer; I'll have to add it to my near term purchase list.

Among those recordings I am familiar with, my favorite in terms of performance is the Toscanini/NBC Symphony recording from 1940. My favorite in terms of sonics + performance is the Horenstein/LSO, on Chesky CD19 (unfortunately out of print, but available at high prices).

Regards,
-- Al