In his review of the LP version, RF concluded by saying that he found it difficult to choose between Simon Standage's performances and those of Jaap Schroder on Oiseau-Lyre. I, too, am now encountering a similar problem. Clear though the digital sound was on the Archiv Produktion LP it was not, perhaps, one of their best; the CD offers even greater clarity which benefits the harpsichord, in particular, but gives a marginally better perspective all round. Like RF I found some fast movements a little too fast for comfort; but I also found the slow movement of the A minor Concerto too slow in spite of Standage's tender and expressive playing. I confess that I have developed a liking for this haunting Andante at a brisker more dance-related tempo. Schroder favours a faster tempo for this movement but offers a less expressive performance with less dependable intonation and less control.
The Oiseau-Lyre CD has more resonance than the Archiv Produktion but is more restrained in the bass than the somewhat larger-than-life bass response of its rival. On balance, the Oiseau-Lyre CD sound is to be preferred; but sound is not everything and in respect of solo playing I derived more pleasure from Standage. Both soloists are well matched in the double concerto.'