Naxos, the way to go for classical?

I am not an expert on Naxos, although I've heard a number of their CDs. Overall, I think the recording quality competitive with major labels--at a much lower price. In addition, I have yet to hear a Naxos CD that is totally unlistenable--something that I cannot say about major labels. However, their quality is not as good as the best audiophile labels. In addition, the performers tend to be people you never heard of--although this may not matter that much. (I've heard the argument that in today's world, almost everyone sounds pretty much the same.)

I agree with the others who talk about doing research. One source is _Gramophone_. This is a British magazine, but much of what gets released there is released here. I think Penguin publishes (or used to publish) comprehensive books that gave summary reviews of currently available recordings.

One recording company that I'd like to mention is Harmonia Mundi. They do mostly baroque, but they do it quite well--both performances and sound quality.

Public libraries often have a good CD collection--which may include some audiophile recordings. This would be a way to hear a variety of CDs without paying anything. Two warnings--the discs may be in poor condition (they often need a cleaning, and they often look like they've been tossed through a gravel pit). Then, there may be many old CDs from the early days of digital, which may be best avoided.

If exploring through Naxos, one nice thing is they print a very well organized and complete catalog that includes the ratings given to their recordings by some popular publications -- Penguin guide, Gramophone, etc. Don't know how easy it is to find, but I picked up a copy for free at a record store a year ago.

Naxos is a fine label, made great by not grabbing every last cent. You can build your whole library as you wish from them. And when some music lifts you from your mud, you can after a dozen listenings, look for another performance, doing your diligent research. I am sticking out my chin here for all to swat, pummel or pound. Naxos is crusial to preserve the culture. And I agree with the other guys that reading is alimentary and cheap. So read as you listen to Naxos. The really good thing is that the scope is s big and you should relax into it. I hope you like libraries; cause they speed you on your way to slow contemplation. I defend Naxos above all comers in value and taste.

Naxos is a good way to get familiar with the subject with no serious investments, but I think you can find more very interesting, performed not in a usual way, recordings in relatively smaller labels, such as Dorian or Telarc, than in Sony or Philips, where, IMHO, quality of performance and recording is hardly predictable. Check speciality audio stores.

Naxos can be OK,not always the best performers.You can get very good buys by joining BMG,they do carry high end labels such as Hyperion,telarc,emi,etc.The best source I have found for classical cd/sacd/dvd is Music Arkiv not cheap but reliable and the most comprehensive.Some of the best sound quality I have found on a Arts&music label they reasonably priced and have superb baroque performers sound quality is excellent on their 24/98 editions.