Wand's Beethoven symphony recordings - he recorded only one because he couldn't do it any better he is to have said - is amongst the finest for a modern orchestra. The sound quality is excellent. If you are a collector - this cycle is a staple. Wand balances the timpanis, winds and horns against the strings, provides an intense and energetic interpretation of these creations. Amongst the cycles I own - both period and modern - these are the ones I listen to most often. There isn't a 'weak' performance amongst the 9.