Deutsche Grammophon was founded on 6 December 1898 by Emil Berliner and his brother Joseph in Hanover. As the inventor of the disc record and the gramophone, Emil Berliner laid the foundation for the world’s oldest active record label. Today, 125 years on, Deutsche Grammophon is part of Universal Music Group and is based in Berlin.
As the world’s oldest music label still in operation, Deutsche Grammophon can look back on an unparalleled history. What began in 1898 with the daily production of 25,000 shellac records has evolved into a global symbol of classical music. Legendary artists such as Enrico Caruso, Herbert von Karajan, Leonard Bernstein, Anne-Sophie Mutter and Martha Argerich have created recordings with Deutsche Grammophon that continue to set the standard to this day. The label has always been a pioneer: in 1983, Deutsche Grammophon released the first classical CD – Herbert von Karajan’s recording of Strauss’s ‘Alpine Symphony’. Today, the label continues this tradition with innovative formats such as Dolby Atmos, Hi-Res Audio and its own streaming platform, STAGE+.
Vinyl editions for connoisseurs:
Our Original Source Series is the centrepiece for audiophile collectors. The renowned Emil Berliner Studios in Berlin are remastering legendary 4-track and 8-track recordings from the 1970s using a 100 per cent purely analogue process. Each record is pressed onto 180g virgin vinyl from Optimal and presented in lavish gatefold editions featuring additional photographic material. These reissues surpass the original releases in clarity, detail and frequency response, whilst offering reduced noise and distortion. Critics rave: “These new records sound phenomenal, with astonishingly lifelike dynamics and richness of sound”.
Signed Editions & Exclusive Releases:
Discover limited-edition sets featuring signed art cards by artists such as Lang Lang, Víkingur Ólafsson, Rafał Blechacz and many more. These editions combine musical masterpieces with an authentic connection to the artists – perfect for collectors and as a special gift.
CD box sets & complete editions:
From Bruckner’s complete symphonies to Leonard Bernstein’s complete recordings and thematic collections – our CD box sets offer comprehensive insights into the works of great composers and performers.
Contemporary classical music:
Deutsche Grammophon is not just a label for historical recordings. With artists such as Max Richter, Hildur Guðnadóttir, Víkingur Ólafsson and Lang Lang, we are bringing classical music into the present day. These artists attract a younger audience and achieve streaming figures in the hundreds of millions.
For us at Deutsche Grammophon, sound quality is not just a marketing phrase, but a living tradition. Our Original Source Vinyl series utilises the shortest possible signal chain from the original master to the cutting head – without copies, without unnecessary equipment, and without digital processing. The result is a listening experience that transports you straight to the recording studio or the concert hall.
Our regular vinyl and CD releases also benefit from decades of expertise in recording technology and mastering. Many recordings are available in high-resolution formats such as Hi-Res, Dolby Atmos and Lossless – whether in our shop or via our streaming service STAGE+.
Audiophile collectors:
If you value the very best sound quality and consider vinyl to be the ultimate medium, our Original Source editions and limited-edition pressings offer audiophile rarities that no collection should be without.
Classical music enthusiasts:
From Baroque to contemporary music – our catalogue features the most important works and performances from the classical music repertoire. Whether you’re looking for historical or modern interpretations of the Goldberg Variations, you’ll find what you’re looking for here.
People looking for gifts:
Signed editions, luxury box sets and exclusive bundles featuring sheet music or art prints make perfect gifts for music lovers.
An Introduction to Classical Music:
Even if you’re new to the world of classical music, we offer accessible entry points. Artists such as Lang Lang and Víkingur Ólafsson combine technical brilliance with emotional depth and have inspired millions of new listeners to discover classical music.
Digital music lovers:
With every purchase you make in the shop, you’re not only supporting the label, but you’ll often gain access to bonus digital content as well. Our streaming service, STAGE+, also offers live concerts, opera productions and the complete DG catalogue in the very best audio and video quality.
Exclusive editions:
Many of our signed and limited-edition items are only available from the official shop.
Authenticity guaranteed:
Every product comes directly from the source – no middlemen, no counterfeits.
The very best quality:
Our moulded products are manufactured to the strictest quality standards.
Newsletters & Early Information:
Subscribers to our newsletter are the first to hear about new releases and limited editions.
Support for the label:
With every purchase, you are directly supporting the artists and the production of new recordings.
To complement the shop, STAGE+ offers a revolutionary streaming experience for classical music. The platform combines:
Weekly live concerts
From the world’s most renowned concert halls and opera houses
Thousands of albums
From the catalogues of Deutsche Grammophon, Decca, ECM and Hyperion Records
4K video, Dolby Atmos and lossless audio
For an immersive experience
Offline downloads
For when you're on the move
Curated playlists and detailed metadata
STAGE+ is the perfect addition for anyone who not only wants to own classical music, but also wants to enjoy it whenever they like.
Deutsche Grammophon brings together generations of exceptional artists. Alongside established greats such as Martha Argerich, Daniel Barenboim, Maurizio Pollini and Yuja Wang, we work closely with the next generation. Víkingur Ólafsson, the ‘Icelandic Glenn Gould’, has amassed over a billion streams with his interpretations of Bach and Schubert. Lang Lang returned to Deutsche Grammophon in 2017 and continues to captivate audiences worldwide with projects such as ‘Piano Book 2’. Rafał Blechacz, Seong-Jin Cho, Alice Sara Ott and Julius Asal represent the diversity and talent of the new generation of pianists.
The renaissance of vinyl is not just a question of sound, but also of appreciation. In an age of sensory overload, physical sound carriers offer a mindful, celebrated musical experience. Our high-quality pressings are designed to last – investments that can endure for generations.
The Deutsche Grammophon Shop is more than just an online store – it is a gateway to 125 years of musical history and, at the same time, a glimpse into the future of classical music. Whether you’d like to rediscover the legendary recordings by Karajan and Bernstein in audiophile quality, are looking for the latest interpretations by Víkingur Ólafsson, or need a special gift for a music lover – you’ll find everything here to make a classical music lover’s heart beat faster.
Welcome to the Deutsche Grammophon family. Welcome to the official shop of the legendary yellow label.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) – Deutsche Grammophon Shop
History & tradition
Since when has Deutsche Grammophon existed?
What makes the Yellow Label so special?
The distinctive Yellow Label with the tulip crown has been Deutsche Grammophon’s unmistakable trademark since 1957. It stands worldwide for supreme sound quality, artistic excellence and technical innovation. For classical music lovers, the Yellow Label is a seal of quality – a promise that every recording is backed by decades of expertise and passion.
Which famous artists have recorded for Deutsche Grammophon?
The list is impressive: Enrico Caruso was among the label’s first stars. Later came conducting legends such as Herbert von Karajan, Leonard Bernstein, Claudio Abbado and Carlos Kleiber. Among the instrumentalists are Anne-Sophie Mutter, Martha Argerich, Maurizio Pollini, Daniel Barenboim, Yuja Wang and many more. Today, the label works with the next generation: Víkingur Ólafsson, Lang Lang, Rafał Blechacz, Seong-Jin Cho and Alice Sara Ott continue the tradition.
Products & assortment
Which formats does the Deutsche Grammophon Shop offer?
Our shop offers a wide range of formats for every need:
- Vinyl LPs: from standard pressings to audiophile Original Source editions
- CDs: single albums, deluxe editions and extensive box sets
- SACDs: Super Audio CDs for even higher fidelity
- Signed editions: limited releases with art cards and artist autographs
- Bundles: combinations of vinyl/CD with scores, art prints or exclusive content
What are Original Source Vinyl editions?
The Original Source Series is our flagship audiophile line. Emil Berliner Studios in Berlin take legendary 4-track and 8-track recordings from the 1970s and remaster them using a 100% purely analog process. That means: no copies, no digital intermediate steps, only the shortest possible signal path from the original master to the vinyl. Each record is pressed on 180g virgin vinyl and released in gatefold editions with additional photographic material. The result surpasses the original releases in clarity, dynamics and low-noise performance.
Are there signed editions and limited releases?
Yes! We regularly offer signed editions with art cards or art prints from artists such as Lang Lang, Víkingur Ólafsson, Rafał Blechacz and many others. These limited releases are often available only in the official shop and sell out quickly. Subscribe to our newsletter so you don’t miss any new releases.
What’s the difference between regular and audiophile pressings?
Regular pressings already offer high quality and are appreciated by music lovers worldwide. Audiophile pressings such as our Original Source Series go a step further: they use original master tapes, purely analog mastering processes, heavier 180g vinyl and superior pressing standards. The sound is markedly more transparent, dynamic and detailed – ideal for discerning listeners and high-end systems.
Quality & technology
How are the vinyl reissues produced?
Our Original Source vinyl editions go through a unique process:
- The original master tapes (4-track or 8-track from the 1970s) are retrieved from the archive
- Emil Berliner Studios use specially built playback machines and mixing consoles
- The signal runs directly to the cutting head with no digital steps
- The lacquer masters are pressed at Optimal on 180g virgin vinyl
- Each record is packaged in a gatefold sleeve with additional material
What does “analog mastering” mean?
Analog mastering means the entire signal path remains purely analog – from the master tape to the finished record. There is no digital conversion, no digital processing, no software compression. The sound remains as natural as possible and preserves the full dynamics and warmth of the original recording. The process is demanding and costly, but it is the gold standard for audiophile collectors.
What audio quality do the recordings offer?
For over 125 years, Deutsche Grammophon has stood for top-tier quality. Our recordings use state-of-the-art technology:
- Vinyl: 180g virgin vinyl, purely analog mastering for Original Source editions
- CD: standard CD quality (44.1kHz/16-bit) plus SACD for hi-res audio
- Digital/streaming: lossless FLAC, hi-res audio (48kHz/24-bit), Dolby Atmos
Many of our recordings from the 1970s are still regarded as references for orchestral sound and spatial imaging.
Service & offers
Do you ship internationally?
Yes, the Deutsche Grammophon Shop ships worldwide. Please note that shipping costs and delivery times vary by destination country. Details are provided during checkout.
Is there a newsletter?
Yes! Our newsletter keeps you up to date on:
- New releases and pre-orders
- Limited and signed editions
- Exclusive shop offers
- Artist news and concert dates
Subscription is free and can be cancelled at any time. Subscribers often receive early information about limited editions. You can sign up for the Deutsche Grammophon Shop newsletter via the Newsletter menu.
What is STAGE+ and how does it relate to the shop?
STAGE+ is Deutsche Grammophon’s innovative streaming service for classical music. The platform offers:
- Weekly live concerts from renowned concert halls
- Thousands of albums in hi-res audio, Dolby Atmos and 4K video
- The complete catalogues of Deutsche Grammophon, Decca, ECM and Hyperion
- Offline downloads for listening on the go
STAGE+ perfectly complements the shop: while you purchase physical editions for your collection, STAGE+ lets you experience classical music live and on demand. Many shop purchases also include special STAGE+ offers.
Audience & use
Who are the products for?
Our products appeal to a variety of audiences:
- Audiophile collectors: Original Source vinyl and limited editions for the highest demands
- Classical enthusiasts: comprehensive catalogues from Baroque to contemporary
- Newcomers: accessible recordings by artists such as Lang Lang and Víkingur Ólafsson
- Gift seekers: signed editions and luxurious box sets
- Vinyl lovers of all ages: the vinyl renaissance attracts seasoned collectors and young explorers alike
Are the recordings suitable for beginners?
Absolutely! While we offer audiophile rarities for connoisseurs, we also have many recordings that are perfect for newcomers. Artists like Lang Lang (“Piano Book 2”), Víkingur Ólafsson (Bach, Debussy) and Daniil Trifonov deliver emotionally engaging performances that resonate without prior knowledge. Classical music is for everyone – and our artists build the bridge between tradition and today.
What makes a good gift?
Perfect gift ideas from our shop:
- Signed editions with artist autographs – personal and valuable
- Vinyl bundles with sheet music for musicians
- Luxurious CD box sets (e.g. Bernstein Complete Recordings, Bach 333)
- Original Source vinyl for audiophile collectors
- Themed albums (e.g. “Piano Book”, “Goldberg Variations”) as an entry into classical music
All products are carefully packaged and make a statement – for love of music, quality and culture.
How do I find the right recording for me?
Use our filters by artist, composer, period or format. Read the product descriptions and listen to audio samples. Our newsletter and the news section on deutschegrammophon.com highlight new releases and recommendations. On STAGE+ you can stream many recordings before purchasing the physical edition.
Can I return recordings?
Information on returns and exchanges can be found in our Terms & Conditions on the shop website. As a rule, unopened, factory-sealed recordings can be returned within the statutory period. If you have any questions, please contact our customer service.
Do you have further questions? Contact us via the contact page or subscribe to our newsletter for regular updates!