As to suggestions, to help you assess/acclimatise, why not aim for particular movements rather than whole works?
In the case of Mahler 1 agree that, given your other favourites, start with Mahler 1. But then move onwards or try new starts at the first movt of Mahler 3 (the Horenstein version still sounds exciting and gripping) then Mahler 5 (yes the Adagietto) and Mahler 7 which I heard live in the Colston Hall as a student with the Bournemouth SO were conducted by Volker Wangenheim (whatever happened to him?) and Mahler 6.
All those years ago I do recall being transfixed by the Symphonica of London recordings of the Mahler syms as conducted by Wyn Morris. At that stage the LPs were far cheaper than the equivalent Deccas and EMIs and DGs.
As to Bruckner my suggestions are the first movement of the Fourth Symphony (Jochum on DG) and any movt at all from Symphony 8 (Boulez at one extreme Giulini at the other - both on DG).
I am sure we would all like to hear your thoughts and assessments if/when you do wade out into these oceanic tides.
I am trying to "get into" Bruckner and Mahler but have not had much luck. I usually like Late Romantic composers like Strauss, Wagner, and Rachmaninov, but I have had trouble with these two. Mahler seems scatterbrained and stylistically all over the place, and Bruckner feels rather dour and dull.
I was wondering if anyone could give suggestions about good works/recordings I could use to increase my experience with these composers, because I feel like based on their popularity, I should be able to enjoy their music. Thanks
-Noah
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