When it comes to major label, value-priced, space-saving, slim-paper box sets of the Mendelssohn Symphonies, there are really only two choices -- the Abbado on DG and the von Dohnanyi on London. My choice was easy -- I bought this set because my dad has the Abbado. Both cycles are terrific, and at such a small price, serious collectors can probably afford both. The real choice arises not between the Abbado and the Dohnanyi, but between this 3CD box set and the two 2CD Double Deckers. By this I mean that Decca/London has released the five symphonies along with three overtures on this box set, but they have also released the same material with Die Erste Walpurgisnacht (Cantata for Chorus & Orchestra, Op. 60) on two different two-disc sets. It basically comes down to whether you want to pay more money and get the Cantata, because the producers have rearranged the tracks on the box set to make it a tidier fit. The box set discs each have 70-plus minutes of music, while the four Double Decker discs are about 60 each. With either choice, you will get first rate performances of Mendelssohn's magnificent symphonies by Christoph von Dohnanyi and the Vienna Philharmonic.