[log in to unmask] writes:

>After acquiring a bargain Solti Ring from them, German mail order source
>Zweitausendeins have sent me folders with more of those attractive offers,
>among which are the complete Dvorak string quartets performed by the
>Stamitz Quartet (Bayer Records): 10 CDs for DM 100 ($ 50 approx.).  Is
>this a good overall quality set or sould I look elsewhere? If not, are all
>these quartets really worth hearing or would I be equally happy with a
>selection of the best?

I have been listening to the complete set by the Prague Quartet.  I have
listened seriously to the Op.9, 16, 27, 34, 51, 61, 96, 105 and 106.  In
addition, this collection must surely include the Cypresses, and the two
Op. 54 Waltzes.  IMHO these are all very much worth listening to.  The
Stamitz Quartet is, I believe, a Czech Quartet.  IIRC, it was the Dolezal
Quartet in an earlier incarnation, until Dolezal left.  I can't comment on
the recording, although the price is great.  I paid about that much for the
Prague Quartet (9 CD's) years ago.  I certainly recommend their
performances, especially for the Cypresses.

Michael Stein