Review: LSC-2456 - Lalo: Symphonie Espagnole
LINK TO FULL VIDEO
If you’re a collector of RCA Living Stereo records, LSC-2456 is undoubtedly one of those special pressings worth talking about. Featuring violinist Henrik Szeryng, conducted by Walter Hendl with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, this recording of Lalo’s Symphonie Espagnole is a gem, available in multiple pressings over the years. Today, we’ll take an in-depth look at the original Shaded Dog, the Victrola reissue, Classic Records, Analog Productions, and even the four-track tape.
The Shaded Dog Pressing
When I first got my hands on the original Shaded Dog pressing, I was taken aback. This was one of the early additions to my Living Stereo collection, and I have a 4S/4S Indianapolis pressing. The cover has that tan, sand-colored matte texture that’s prone to marking up over time, but the music inside is what truly matters.
This record was engineered by John Crawford and produced by John Pfeiffer—an unusual team for a Chicago Symphony Orchestra release, as most were recorded by Lewis Layton and produced by Richard Mohr. As a result, the sound is slightly different from other CSO recordings of the era.
Jonathan Valin, in The RCA Bible, describes this pressing as more upfront than most CSO discs, with a slightly shallower soundstage but excellent transparency. The low end is deep, and the dynamics are outstanding. Szeryng’s violin is prominently spotlighted, making this a thrilling and engaging listen. Valin rated it 10++ and I couldn’t agree more.
The Victrola Plum Label Pressing
Next up, the Victrola reissue—a budget-friendly alternative to the original. Surprisingly, this is one of the better Victrolas out there. My copy is a 1S/5S pressing, and it retains much of the sonic character of the original. It doesn’t have excessive tape hiss, which can sometimes plague Victrola releases, and the overall tonal balance is excellent. If you’re looking for a great-sounding copy without the hefty price tag of an original Shaded Dog, this is a solid choice.
The Classic Records Pressing
Classic Records reissued Symphonie Espagnole as part of their Living Stereo series, mastered by Bernie Grundman and pressed at RTI. While Classic did some fantastic work on many RCA titles, this one is a bit of a mixed bag. The pressing quality is superb, but the mastering is a bit aggressive. The cut is hot—big, vivid, and dynamic, but the climaxes can come off as slightly harsh. While the bass is deeper than the original, the overall tonality feels slightly off. The Classic pressing is still enjoyable, but if you’re after a more natural and balanced sound, there are better options.
The Analogue Productions Pressing
Currently in print, the Analogue Productions (AP) reissue is a fantastic option for those who want an audiophile-grade copy. Mastered by Ryan K. Smith from the original three-track tapes and pressed at QRP, this release is beautifully done. The packaging is excellent (though the cover color is noticeably different from the original). Sonically, it offers a deep bass floor, excellent rendering of space, and a violin tone that’s neither too bright nor too dull—just right. Compared to the Classic, it maintains control in the climaxes while preserving the power and depth of the performance. This is arguably the best choice for modern collectors.
The Four-Track Tape
Reel-to-reel collectors will be pleased to know that the four-track tape of Symphonie Espagnole is outstanding. Compared to the records, it has an expansive soundstage that seems to wrap around the listener, with a beautifully lush string tone. The bass is strong, and while there is some tape hiss, it contributes to an airy quality that enhances the listening experience. Compared head-to-head with the AP pressing, the tape is incredibly close in tonality and presentation, suggesting that AP did a remarkable job in capturing the essence of the master tape.
Conclusion
If you’re searching for the best way to experience LSC-2456, my recommendation depends on your priorities. The original Shaded Dog is a classic, offering that warm, rich Living Stereo sound, but it comes at a premium. The Victrola is a budget-friendly alternative that doesn’t sacrifice much in quality. The Classic Records pressing is dynamic but cut a little too hot. The Analogue Productions reissue is the best real-world choice, providing an excellent balance of clarity, depth, and warmth. And if you’re into reel-to-reel, the four-track tape is an experience of its own.
No matter which version you choose, Szeryng’s performance remains as breathtaking as ever, making this an essential addition to any classical music collection.
