Luscious sound by a very competent orchestra. Splendid, spacious outer movements where the beautiful strings really shine.
However, regarding the second movement (Andante), I`m more used to a slower, more heart-felt tempo (example- Bernstein/Vienna/1990 on DG, at 11 minutes) than Ashkenazy`s 10 minutes. The playing is quite fine, yet what is actually conveyed is more straight-forward and meticulous. I basically listened to this movevement rather than preferring to experience it emotionally. To me, this movement is the most important of the whole symphony.
Still recommended, but not unforgettable.