Many consider the Furtwangler recording during the war years (1942 version) as one of the best, if not the best, ever. The recording quality is not up to modern standards, but the pure drive and emotion is hard to beat. Should be in anyone's collection if they are serious about Beethoven's 9th. His
1951 Bayreuth
version is also recommended - better recording and better soprano. The 1942 version is available as part of a boxed set. Not sure if it is easily available on CD otherwise.
In the end, there is no best 9th. The interpretation is key and the quality of the soprano is critical to many. Many find Furtwangler slow and ponderous, others find him the true master. You need to decide for yourself.
https://www.amazon.com/Furtwangler-Conducts-Beethoven-Symphonies-Overtures/dp/B00001W09Z
In the end, there is no best 9th. The interpretation is key and the quality of the soprano is critical to many. Many find Furtwangler slow and ponderous, others find him the true master. You need to decide for yourself.
https://www.amazon.com/Furtwangler-Conducts-Beethoven-Symphonies-Overtures/dp/B00001W09Z