Dune was the first Audiobook I purchased, said purchase occurring about 2 years ago. I'd say I've listened to it about 20 times since than which probably brings the total number of times I have read/heard the book well into triple figures. To see my review of Dune click here.
The Unabridged Audio Book was created by Audio Renaissance Now an arm of the publishing house Macmillian. As I stated in my review of the Pandora's Star, The Dune audiobook is very lavish, which is currently very rare in the (re)burgeoning a-book industry. Here we have not one voice actor (as is common) but several, and this does improve the quality. The actors are able to bounce of each other as needed, and give real depth to their performances.
The book is expertly narrated by Simon Vance. With the other actors taking on several parts. Of note are the portrayals of The Baron Vladimir Harkonnen, who is portrayed as having a relatively soft public voice and Bass almost demonic private voice. Which gives the perfect feel to the complex character. Also Scott Brick's Stilgar, is fantastically portrayed as a voice full of power, wisdom and command.
Dune is such a rich tapestry, it was definitely the right call to do this “Theatre Style” I.e as though it where a live production (although at over 24 hours it would be some stage show.) The very talented Paul Goodrich expertly mixes in subtle background music and effects, it really is a joy to listen to.
Audio really is the only other medium Dune truly works in. Dune is so lean, which is surprising at 645 page. Like his creation Count Fenrring Herbert never uses two words were one will do, or limits himself to one meaning in one word. Their really isn't any sub-plots that can be trimmed off, without effecting the whole. Which is why though their have been some very good efforts, Dune will never translate properly to film or TV.
My recommendation for this audio-book is buy it, but it now. If you already own a copy buy another one.
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