Are you sure the ones from the 40's and 50's that sound flat and one-dimensional aren't mono? Just about all releases through at least the mid-50's, and often later, were in mono. They would only be stereo on cd if they were initially recorded with multiple microphones or stereo microphones, and the producers were able to obtain and work with original master tapes containing those multiple tracks.
That said, among stereo re-releases of early material I would highly recommended the Chesky cd re-issues of Horenstein conducting the Royal Philharmonic or London Symphony orchestras, ca. 1962. Best in terms of sound quality, imo, is the Dvorak "New World." Particularly on a system with tube electronics, you will not believe you are listening to something that was recorded with 1962 equipment.
Also, you might want to try some of the Earl Wild piano recordings on Chesky.
For chamber music, and considering relatively recent recordings, Wilson Audio (that's Dave Wilson, the builder of super-expensive and highly regarded speakers) has put out some excellent cd's. And just about anything on the Dorian label is likely to be very good as well.
Regards,
-- Al
That said, among stereo re-releases of early material I would highly recommended the Chesky cd re-issues of Horenstein conducting the Royal Philharmonic or London Symphony orchestras, ca. 1962. Best in terms of sound quality, imo, is the Dvorak "New World." Particularly on a system with tube electronics, you will not believe you are listening to something that was recorded with 1962 equipment.
Also, you might want to try some of the Earl Wild piano recordings on Chesky.
For chamber music, and considering relatively recent recordings, Wilson Audio (that's Dave Wilson, the builder of super-expensive and highly regarded speakers) has put out some excellent cd's. And just about anything on the Dorian label is likely to be very good as well.
Regards,
-- Al