help with CD's

[cubwah]

I want to buy the BBC CD set. Amazon do one, but I have seen a cheaper version available in the states for about $52 excluding tax, shipping, etc. Its by BDD Audio Publishing (its not the Mindeye version).

Is it identical? It only mentions Ian Holmes, not Michael Hordern et al. The box does not seem as well presented either.

Is it false economy to get the cheaper version, or am I better with the UK one?

Comments (even rude ones) appreciated

TA!

[Inoldonil]

There may be two LOTR BBC productions, but I'm in the U.S. with the latest one, featuring Ian Holm, and it's spectacular. Probobly you wouldn't be ripped off. I'd have to see what you're talking about.

[Michael Martinez]

There were indeed two BBC productions, but I don't believe the first one was ever released on audiotape or CD. On the other hand, the second production was rereleased with new material. If there is an apparent discrepancy in CD sets, it's possible that you're looking at the latest version, which would include Tom Bombadil. The original SECOND presentation did not include Bombadil.

Or, let me put it this way:

First Production included Bombadil, was not released for sale.

Second Production originally excluded Bombadil, was released for sale.

Second Production was rereleased for sale WITH Bombadil.

[cubwah]

That helps....

So what you are saying is, either BBC version will have Ian Holme, michael Hordern etc? That they are practically identical except for the Bombadil inclusion? I have heard the tapes which did not include Tom. I just want to be certain that what I buy has the same people involved with the production that the tapes did.

If I seem thick, then its because I have had too much wine.

BTW, something I have always wondered........ When Gandalf learnt that Frodo had taken the stairs of Cirith Ungol into Mordor, he was dismayed and said "why that way i wonder?". Ok, Gandy, what other way was there? the black gate? How could he hope for a better way when noone else had a better idea?

[Nimruzir]

Re: When Gandalf learnt that Frodo had taken the stairs of Cirith Ungol into Mordor, he was dismayed and said "why that way i wonder?". Ok, Gandy, what other way was there?
If I may add this bit of info:
Looking at the maps Professor Tolkien drew, and reproduced in The War Of The Ring, at least 4 other passes were available even without considering the option of an easterly route.
2 passes were located in the Ered Lithui; 1 to the northwest of Barad-dur and the other to the northeast.
There were also 2 passes shown in the Ephel Duath; 1 located at the juncture where the Poros emits from the mountains, and another to the south; which is also given a name; The Nargil Pass.

Is this of assistance?