Astonishing improvement over the original vinyl release!
S. Baird | Baton Rouge, LA United States | 06/03/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"As an audiophile, I don't take either side in the ongoing discussion concerning the superiority of one medium over the other. Instead I consider each as objectively as I can on a case-by-case basis, with the results usually being split one way or the other. In a few instances, the differences are small enough that only those who want to split hairs would want to quibble over what they hear, but not in this case.
The original recording was released as an LP in 1988, with this CD reissue coming just a year later. As such, this is what some would call "early digital" and many have grumbled over what these kinds of recordings sounded like when transferred to vinyl. In this case, one who would listen only to the LP, would be missing a great deal, as this particular CD is one of the finest sounding CDs from the Philips label I've ever heard. The piano is crisp and three-dimensional, and without imposing on the sound fields of the cello and violin--something too rarely hear in small ensemble recordings.
Although I would doubt that The Beaux Arts Trio ever made a poor recording, I must agree with the other reviewer here that this recording of the A minor Piano Trio surely ranks among their best. There is a sense of clarity and diction that separates this one from others in the catalog. Since it is currently out of print I would strongly recommend that you buy one whenever it reappears here. This is music too gorgeous to be missed."
Balance and musicality!
Hiram Gomez Pardo | Valencia, Venezuela | 01/26/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Since the first bar I listened from the vinyl times, I have always sustained this is one of the most remarkable performances of this renowned ensemble.
Excellent sound with magnificent results.
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