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But I'm surprised at Breda's praise for the Polydors. Yes, they are essential performances. But I never found their audio quality to be up to the very highest standards. My dissatisfaction is hard to define. They sound a little "tubby" perhaps? A little "hollow"? Not enough presence or brilliance?

Interesting comment, John. Though it's unwise to closely compare LPs with CDs, I must say the Polydors never lacked for brilliance on my system--they certainly beat the pants off the Telarc in that regard, which you as I recall found to be "high frequency heaven". Odd how we interpret different sound quality--or maybe it's our systems interpreting it for us.

Personally I would nominate the cello/violin concertos and the Symphony/Vinter's Daughter as the best sounding discs. The recent CPO disc, though detailed and dynamic, is a little harsh and wirey; however the performances are first rate and really bring the music alive. Though I've only heard one other interpretation, and that only of the Tripartita, it's hard not to imagine these version as definitive, and I'm a little surprised there hasn't been rave reviews on this forum. After all, this music is not exactly inaccessible. Anyone who enjoys film noir Rozsa will certainly "dig" it.