Columbia SAX 2398: Klemperer's Fantastic Mendelssohn and Schumann
Mendelssohn: "Italian" Symphony
Schumann: Symphony No. 4
Otto Klemperer, conductor
Philharmonia Orchestra
Pressing: UK, ER2, semi-circle
Condition: NM
Date first published: 1961
Stampers:
YAX 603-9G
YAX 604-6G
Performance: 5/5
Sound: 4-4.5/5
Price range: $27-447 (mean $87) at popsike.com
Comments: Finally, a SAX that does not disappoint. These performances are classics in the catalog and are given excellent performances by Klemperer and the Philharmonia. The semi-circle second pressing presents the music with vivid sound with a wide soundstage and very nice instrumental imaging. It's tube sound without the tube vintage (as in very early FFSS Decca). Wind textures are clear, and there's some decent bass on this one. Okay, so there's a touch of distortion at the musical climaxes, but I found the recording so enjoyable overall that it didn't really bother me. Soundwise, this recording outclasses the Szell SAX 2475. Not surprising, considering that this one was actually recorded and not just pressed by EMI. The blue/silver goes for a lot more than the semi-circle, but you will not go wrong with the second pressing. Highly recommended.
I must post on my third pressing of this or reply.
ReplyDeleteShare thoughts on the third pressing ...
DeleteI have this on the blue/silver label with YAX 603-7 & YAX 604-5 stampers. I would concur with aqlam's rating on this one
ReplyDeleteI'd love to hear that blue/silver! Makes me wonder if there are any sonic advantages to that earlier pressing, though I was pretty pleased with the SC.
DeleteJust put out my poor boy pressing for playing, notes label (3rd). Last time I played it was ok, but not great. Silver must be the way to go.
DeleteGad zooks, my pressing is 9G/6G, so it is a magic (2nd label) in disguise. No wonder I was luke warm. It may be that a remastered 3rd pressing does not exist. I need to investigate this issue further.
DeletePretty ordinary second pressing SAX sound (gravely strings for me). My pressing has identical stampers. Barely passable. Budget buyers should run for the Concert Classic SXLP.
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