Beethoven: The Piano Concertos (1997, Philips)
Pianist, Alfred Brendel, had recorded the cycle before but (from what I hear) James Levine and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra were a better fit, though many claim they did not come up to Brendel's level of passion or artistry in these live recordings of all five piano concertos from June, 1983. Critics also balk at the less-than-optimal sound quality in the Chicago music hall. The 2000 remastered edition is the one to go for though the '97 release is fine. It's the one I own and yes, there's a just a slight touch of distortion at the upper registers but almost negligible considering the talent on display. Highly recommended. Here's the first movement from Concerto No. 1 in C Major: