I actually like CDs like that. They make me listen and focus on the
music.

I'm not familiar with this recording, but, in general, I would warn anyone against equating sound quality with volume level. What you're perceiving as "the absolute worst" may actually be a recording with greater dynamic range than most. Try turning up the volume.

Given the debate about the "loudness wars" I call "flame" on this one.

Maybe I was wrong then:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Loudness_wars

Quote:
judicata: I don't have any idea what you are talking about. Please elaborate.

stephen: Dynamic range was my first thought. I have played around with the volume and it doesn't sound like this recording has any more range than the typical symphonic recording. I have many other NAXOS CDs that sound great. That is partially why I am so disappointed in this recording. I have to conclude that it is just a lousy recording or remastering job.

Your opinion is in the definite minority in the music world. Generally (but not always), lower CD volumes are provably correlated with improved sound quality - in terms of reduced compression.

The ultimate solution here is to switch to a playback system that performs loudness equalization. Chuck the CD changer and switch to something that supports ReplayGain or SoundCheck. It sounds extreme but it really does let you enjoy music more easily, without having to worry about sudden volume changes.