Marking the 50th anniversary since its first release, this brand new limited edition deluxe presentation of one of Decca’s most acclaimed opera recordings features the most accomplished cast of the era, led by Mirella Freni and Luciano Pavarotti, and conducted by Herbert von Karajan. First new release on vinyl since the 1980s, and first-ever Hybrid SACD release. Part of Decca’s Pavarotti-Puccini reissues, marking 100 years since the composer’s death. New high definition 24-bit 192 kHz transfers from the original 1975 master tapes. Presented in deluxe Vinyl & SACD formats. Vinyl Edition: LPs cut at Abbey Road Studios, and pressed on 180g vinyl; with poly-lined inner sleeves. Hybrid. SACD Edition: presenting 24-bit audio. 

Meticulously researched and lavishly presented hardback book in multiple languages, housed in a deluxe cloth-wrapped rigid slipcase, with sticker and onsert, presenting: a new feature-length essay from internationally renowned writer on opera, Roger Pines; specially commissioned article on Mirella Freni; special article from Decca’s rising tenor Freddie de Tommaso on Puccini, Pavarotti and Madama Butterfly; facsimiles from the original 1975 booklet, including the complete libretto in original Italian, plus English and German translations; contemporaneous photographs and recently unearthed shots; exclusive 1920s-style Madama Butterfly collectible poster (A4).

Cast:
- Madama Butterfly: Mirella Freni (soprano)
- B.F. Pinkerton: Luciano Pavarotti (tenor)
- Suzuki: Christa Ludwig (mezzo-soprano)
- Sharpless: Robert Kerns (baritone)
- Goro: Michel Sénéchal (tenor)
- Prince Yamadori: Giorgio Stendoro (baritone)
- Kate Pinkerton: Elke Schary (mezzo-soprano)
- The Bonze: Marius Rintzler (bass)
- Commissioner: Hans Helm (baritone)