Paul, I do not have the Dutton transfer but I have the HDTT remastering in 24/96 PCM Flac Digital Download form and compared it with the RCA Living Stereo issue (which is SACD, that I do not play). I praised this recording in my survey, calling it "something of a sleeper":
http://www.musicweb-international.com/classrev/2020/Jun/Mahler-Erde-survey.pdf
and much of what I say there about the brilliance and detail of Reiner's way with this music and the beauty of the singing is confirmed by DMcD's observations.
Regarding sound, both are very good, though for some reason the CD has a tubbier, rounder sound with the orchestra more forward - especially the horns - than the HDTT download which is neater, and maintains a slightly better balance between the voices and orchestra. The HDTT version is also set at a lower volume which reduces the ambient rustle and rumble which is more prominent in the RCA CD. On balance, I find the HDTT remastering preferable - more natural and easier to listen to, with a better equilibrium and no distractions from any extraneous noise.
I agree with David McDade that this is one of the best recordings of Das Lied von der Erde .
It has also been remastered by High Definition Tape Transfers. Theirs is a noticeable improvement on the already very good Living Stereo reissue. I would be interested in hearing from anyone who has heard both the Dutton and the HDTT remasterings.
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