The best Carl Orff Carmina Burana?

I have recently begun listening to this and really enjoy it. What is the best recording of this that you have heard? Thanks, I appreciate your help.

nrchy12-31-2002 4:41am

tweekerman Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 473 posts 12-31-2002 at 05:36am Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete Nrchy, you may want to take a look at 2 other Orff "best" threads, oh about 2 months ago. Great music indded!!
tweekerman Details Discussions Posts This discussion Message User 473 posts 12-31-2002 at 04:26pm Copy Comment URL Report Comment Edit Delete Yes, the Smetacek/Czech has a big sound, (nice soundstage/miking). The sound quality is not as good as others though. The chorus is outstanding (maybe tops), especially the male chorus!! The conducting is good/ok. Keep in mind, one very beautiful tracks is #20 (or 21) for soprano. V. Babikian/Stokowski is without doubt tops. As well G. Gardner on the baritone parts is tonally perfect (Stokowski). So this Czech recording may be a must just for the fantastic chorus if you really love this compostion. Though the Jochum with the Berlin Chorus is as well very good.