This is only one of a handful of Der Rosenkavalier recordings which does not make any cuts in the opera (unlike the Karajin version). Luckily, this is also one of the best, if not the best, recording of the opera out there. Regine Crespin perfectly captures the essence of the Marschallin with a voice that sounds like it belongs to that of a young woman, which is what Strauss wanted the Marschallin to be. Crespin captures the Marschallin's strength as well as her vulnerability. When she says, "Ya, ya," in Act III, I got chills. Yvonne Minton, as Octavian, has a voice perfectly suited to the role of Octavian: full of youthful energy. Her portrayal is likewise poignant, emotional, and well-sung. Helen Donath compliments Minton nicely as Sophie. Donath's voice contains the innocence and youthfulness necessary to pull off her role, not to mention a vocal range that allows her to sing the high notes that Strauss has supplied her character. For me, however, Manfred Jungwirth as Baron Ochs steals the show. He is brutish, crude, and the most expressive singer in the cast. One can often tell what he is singing about without even having to look at the translation, his emotion is communicated so well through his singing. The supporting cast, likewise, does an admirable job of pulling off their respective roles, including a youthful Luciano Pavarotti, who sings a wonderful rendition of an Italian aria with his rich and expressive tenor voice. It is the playing of the Vienna Philharmonic under the baton of the late Sir Georg Solti, however, that makes this listening experience so special. Solti specialized in Strauss's music, and it shows here. The music shifts from sounding romantic and almost excessively beautiful to dramatic when called for. It is simply amazing to listen to. As of now, this is my favorite opera. It's also one of a handful of operas that I've had the privilege of seeing live. Now, I am happy that I have found a complete recording of this opera that is this good. If you love this opera as much as I do, it's a no-brainer: buy it!!!