This package contains a total of 30 CD's, his complete works. Each disc follows its own theme (flute concertos, symphonies, solo keyboard works, etc.).
The quality of CPE Bach's work I find to be incredibly eccentric and unique, giving him the ability to not be totally eclipsed by his father, JS Bach, the master that many claim (myself included) to be the greatest of all time. That is an incredible feat of its own that should NOT be undervalued.
On to the sound quality... The instruments/orchestra was recorded as perfectly as humanly possible. I cannot say enough about how well these records were produced. Every instrument is identifiable, none are lost in the mix. They are all mastered well, too, with no instrument occupying, improperly, the frequency range of another instrument. One of the hardest instruments to capture and master properly, one of my three favorite instruments, the Harpsichord, was handled beautifully. It is treated EXACTLY as basso continuo should be heard. It is always present, supplementing the orchestra or primary instruments in a trio or what have you, but it never takes the spotlight UNLESS it is called for during a certain passage of a song. The dynamics of the orchestra/instruments are superb. It gets as quiet as it should and gets as loud as it should, depending on the material. There is no sign of unnecessary or over-used compression (say "NO!" to the loudness wars). Most of the material lies in the midrange and the treble, due to the nature of the instruments of the time. But no one will fault you for applying a sizable bass boost with an EQ to get more low end "attack" of the double basses and giving them more presence in the mix (It's what I do).
The performers play the music with passion, technical ability, historical accuracy (proper playing of the "basso continuo" part, in particular), and respect that a master composer deserves.
This should be a part of every Classical enthusiasts collection, not just because of everything that I've stated, but because it's a bargain too. Thirty CD's for only $62. Get it if you can afford it, which isn't a stretch to be able to do. If you can't, then private message me. Enjoy.
