Die 10 Grossen Streichquartette / The 10 Great String Quartets / Les 10 Grands Quatuors À Cordes

Released in 1979 by Telefunken, this comprehensive box set captures a pivotal moment in late twentieth-century chamber music recording. The Alban Berg Quartett, having formed in Vienna in 1971, was rapidly establishing itself as the definitive interpreter of the classical repertoire. By dedicating this collection to Mozart's 'ten great' string quartets—specifically the six dedicated to Haydn plus the Hoffmeister and the three Prussian quartets—the ensemble aimed to highlight the intellectual rigor and structural sophistication inherent in Mozart's mature compositions.

The production philosophy behind this set emphasized the clarity and tonal warmth that became the hallmark of the Alban Berg Quartett’s early era. The ensemble sought to move away from overly romanticized interpretations, favoring instead a disciplined, historically aware approach that showcased the interplay between the four instruments. The release was well received by critics for its technical precision and is often cited as a benchmark recording for audiophiles interested in the Telefunken label's commitment to high-fidelity analog captures of the classical tradition.