This has always been regarded as a fine performance of the Ninth Symphony. It has Herbert von Karajan"s orchestra, but with better sound and a far more natural balance between orchestra and chorus. At super budget price, it"s an incredible deal. Just one more reminder that in the wacky world of classical music, price and quality of performance are completely unrelated. It"s a buyer"s market, so go forth and buy! --David Hurwitz