I have the Takacs and Hagen, too. They're both solid performances, and each comes with a different additional piece (Schubert's Rosamunde v. Beethoven's String Quartet Op. 135, the last piece he composed, adding to the death theme). Takacs is 4 minutes quicker, but to me doesn't feel rushed. They're both so solid performances that it's difficult for me to give the edge to one over the other.These three for me. Performance-wise the Hagen's edge it but The Takacs recording has to be one of the best recorded string quartet discs ever produced and it's a performance of real power and precision.
This one is really good IMO. With Gilels on piano in the Trout, which is definitely my favorite recording of that work.I have the 1959 recording, digitally remastered in 1997, of "Death and the Maiden" by the Amadeus Quartet, and I like it very well. It is paired with the Trout Quintet.
The Hagen recording is also available with a different coupling, a very good Trout Quintet:I have the Takacs and Hagen, too. They're both solid performances, and each comes with a different additional piece (Schubert's Rosamunde v. Beethoven's String Quartet Op. 135, the last piece he composed, adding to the death theme). Takacs is 4 minutes quicker, but to me doesn't feel rushed. They're both so solid performances that it's difficult for me to give the edge to one over the other.
The 1965 recordingI've seen several recommendations for the Quartetto Italiano. Which version of theirs are you speaking of, the 1965 or the 1979?
And a great recording of the 15th.The 1965 recording
Just go get this Philips/Decca twofer. You'll also a wonderful recording of the Op. 29 Rosamunde quartet, plus a few others. A phenomenal not-to-be-missed bargain.
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https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0000041BX/