What is the best sounding Mahler symphony cycle?


Folks... I love Mahler but my two versions of the 5th sound very low-fi. I am looking for a well --- really well --- recorded 5th on redbook CD --- or better still... a whole mahler symphony cycle that is audiophile (or... near audiophile quality.

Any help would be appreciated
robsker

Showing 4 responses by jim204

Although I can't say who has produced the best cycle because there are so many variables I have to agree with @schubert  that every one of Fischer's efforts with the Budapest Orchestra is superb in sound and playing but there are many individual symphonies that I just couldn't let go. So for me the jury is out but I still love Fischer's efforts.
I really like a version of the Mahler 9th conducted by Blomstedt but it is not comercially available as I recorded it form a BBC Radio 3 broadcast and to me it is devine with all I ever want from a Mahler symphony , it has wonderful dynamics , extreme pathos and a vulnerabillity you can only get from Mahler and it is conducted by a man who the audience and orchestra love.
@mahler123If you are not impressed by Fischer's Mahler No 1 why don't you try his No 4 as this one is at the moment my favourite but stream it before you buy it as I hate to see people left with a CD that they now have as a coaster.
@mahler123   Yes I did mean the Budapest band I find they are very light with the symphony which Mahler implied through Bruno Walter and the soprano they chose is suitably childlike in the last movement instead of the gargantuan warblers that some past conductors have chosen.