Could we compile a list of the best labels for classical on vinyl?

Mr. Lin

Mr. Lin

Lunatic Member
Since my interest in classical is suddenly growing at a pretty quick rate, and I'm a total vinyl junkie, it would be helpful to have a list of the best labels and time periods to look for when buying classical on vinyl. Even specific titles and pressings would be good. I know you shouldn't choose your music just based on sound quality or labels, but good sound quality is of the utmost importance to me, and I'm going to be selective.
 
Register to hide this ad
Thanks Mike. However, I would like to focus exclusively on vinyl here, and I'm mostly interested in a concise list of the best labels and time periods. So if anyone has something to add by all means do so.
 
I just got a bunch of records for free. London ffrr Puccini Tosca, still sealed box set. I'll have to check it out. I have also picked up a bunch of RCA red label records from a local thrift shop, most look like they have never been out of their sleeves. Now I need to listen to them.
 
Mr. Lin said:
Is Philips generally good, or are there certain years to be avoided?

Also, about London ffrr, what does "ffrr" stand for?
Click to expand...

I may have had good luck with all my 80's era Phillips so I can't say I've had a bad one.

London ffrr = full frequency-range recording. I don't know if there's a London non-ffrr, but again I've always had good luck with these, even from thrifts.

Like this:

untitled.jpg
 
Some have definite periods of greatness and not so great...but there are a few that I havent found any weaknesses:

1. Harmonia Mundi
2. BIS
3. Erato
4. Older mono VOX LP's..especially if RVG on deadwax
5. Older London FFrr mono's.
6. Lyrita
7. Decca
8. Hungaroton
9. New label from Germany Tacet (all tube gear)
10. EMI
11. Chandos
12. Chesky re-issues
13. Opus 3
14. Early Stereo Everest recorded in 35mm film..covers have silver backing.
15. Early Command Series also on 35 mm,,,,


Most other lables are more crapshooty I believe...
 
Telarc,MFSL and London Phase 4,Sheffieldlabs
 

Attachments

  • DSC00217.JPG
    DSC00217.JPG
    49.7 KB · Views: 11
The top labels of all time are UK-pressed Decca SXLs and UK-pressed top-of-the-line EMIs, the ASD and SAX series.

They sell for big money, and there is a reason for it. Of course, you can always buy the reissues from Speaker's Corner and Testament.

Of the later labels, French Harmonia Mundi and Lyrita are good, if you like their type of music.
 
For the budget concious, the Ace of Clubs series of Decca is a great re-issue budget label. Although some are electronically modified for stereo...

Same with L'oiseau-Lyre....great sounding chamber music.
 
merrylander said:
Mercury Living Presence - if you can find any.
Click to expand...

Many good labels already mentioned but as a whole I've been most impressed with the Mercury Living Presence line-up...usually great performances and great recordings and reasonably available...at least in reissue...
 
WhiteSE said:
Some have definite periods of greatness and not so great...but there are a few that I havent found any weaknesses:

1. Harmonia Mundi
2. BIS
3. Erato
4. Older mono VOX LP's..especially if RVG on deadwax
5. Older London FFrr mono's.
6. Lyrita
7. Decca
8. Hungaroton
9. New label from Germany Tacet (all tube gear)
10. EMI
11. Chandos
12. Chesky re-issues
13. Opus 3
14. Early Stereo Everest recorded in 35mm film..covers have silver backing.
15. Early Command Series also on 35 mm,,,,


Most other lables are more crapshooty I believe...
Click to expand...

Whoah, Tacet caught my eye right away. All tubes? How have I not heard about this? That's such a great idea I ordered one of their lps just now:D
 
Mr Lin, I dont think you will regret ordering the Tacet...violins especially tremendous sounding!
 
The RCA "shaded dog" label has a good reputation. I picked up 2 yesterday: Ravel "Daufnis and Chloe" and Schubert, "The Trout Quintet" Both excellent recordings, but both rather noisy, even after cleaning. I may need to play/clean/play/clean a few times to make them sound their best

:music:
 
I have a label I wondered if anyone knew anything about. I recently picked up two records at the thrift store. They are in excellent condition and sound very good. I have googled and have not found out anything about it. It is called Washington Records. The two I have are Vivaldi Concerti Volumes 1 and 2. The performances are by the Milan Chamber Orchestra dated 1958. As I said the recordings sound very good to me. They are stereo recordings.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom