My favourite modern instrument recording of Figaro - Taddei, Moffo, and Wachter are all excellent, and Schwarzkopf is a fine Countess. Guilini's tempi are refreshingly energetic for the time.

A new period set. Keenlyside in particular is a great Count, and the rest of the cast is excellent. Unlike the above, much ornamentation, though its authenticity is perhaps questionable at times.

have big, rich voices, and the orchestra creates a thick full texture. While this is to a certain extent characteristic of its age, the only slightly later Giulini skips,not plods. But a fine cast.

Prey excepted, the cast (compared to the Ostman for example) don't seem to have much of a sense of fun or drama - and this isn't helped by some painfully slow tempi. Not bad, but certainly not great.

An undoubtedly fine cast and a fine choice for those who favour a fatter string section! But Solti's "big" Mozart is not to my taste and I miss the wit and transparent textures of Ostman.

Gardiner's recording here on DVD.