Classical - Dubious quality of some classical recordings

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Dubious quality of some classical recordings

Printed From: Graham Slee Hifi System Components
Category: Music
Forum Name: Classical
Forum Description: Recommendations and Reviews of Classical recordings
URL: https://www.hifisystemcomponents.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=5691
Printed Date: 26 Mar 2026 at 10:40pm
Software Version: Web Wiz Forums 12.01 - http://www.webwizforums.com

Topic: Dubious quality of some classical recordings

Posted By: Bags
Subject: Dubious quality of some classical recordings
Date Posted: 31 Jan 2024 at 10:40pm

Nerdy maybe, but I'm fascinated by the inconsistent quality of some classical recordings.

For example, I like the L'Oiseau-Lyre Decca Mozart symphony sets with Chris Hogwood and the Academy of Ancient Music. There are seven box sets and some great recordings in there. My sets also contain pressings with the left and right channels inverted and others with no stereo image whatsoever.

Unfortunately, thanks to my Accession's ability to portray a great natural acoustic when one is present, the obverse is also true and the engineers occasional shortcomings are revealed in all their glory!

I've noted before the ability of the accession to present some old faves 'warts and all' with highly 'produced' pop albums (e.g. Lexicon of Love) revealing how they've been 'stitched together' in the way that a lesser phono stage won't reveal.

I wouldn't not have my Accession and I love the detail it serves up, but sometimes less is more.

Replies:

Posted By: Fatmangolf
Date Posted: 01 Feb 2024 at 6:17am

It is frustrating when the sound quality and mix balance vary in the same box set of discs. I know they will be compilations from recordings made in different places and by different people but consistency in sound, stereo presentation with depth all help. An accurate reproduction will make the best of it, sometimes painfully honest and revealing flaws! I have forgotten who said that the best performances can be on poor quality recordings.

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Jon

Open mind and ears whilst owning GSP Genera, Accession M, Accession MC, Elevator EXP, Solo ULDE, Proprius amps, Cusat50 cables, Lautus digital cable, Spatia cables and links, and a Majestic DAC.