I don't have an opinion on the Janowski, but I would like to sway you
towards the '53 Krauss ring on Gala.

Sonically, its not going to compare with Solti or anything recorded since
then, but for an early 50s live recording, it is very listenable and the
audience is very unabtrusive.

Singers include Varnay, Hotter, and a young Windgassen: Mr. W. gets a
little lost in the forging scene, otherwise he does a fine job.  I believe
that this was his first Bayreuth ring and you can sense why people at the
time were excited about this tenor.

The orchesta is very good and Krauss leads them with a sure hand.

Drawbacks? Only one for a new ring-o-phyte, no librettos.

But for less than $50 from cdworld, you can't complain too loud.

happy listening
randy