Jim -- I am sure you are right about the celli. I knew either Ma or Rostropovich had the Davidoff, I guess I just assumed that it was Rostropovich because of the whole Russian connection. As for Casals, you are right, it takes a lot of time to get past the recording quality. Some people can't, some can, but it really does make a big impact for the negative. It took me several listens before I really began to appreciate it, and sometimes I still get fed up with the poor quality. I don't really know how to describe his playing, I would not call it flawless or anything, but it seems to me to be very knowledgable, if that makes sense. As if he had been studying the suites his whole life (which he had). But of course, it is a matter of personal preference. I still like Ma a lot, but I think I would rather throw in Rostropovich or Casals, but that is just me. I think the best way to go about it is to listen to all of them (and perhaps Starker and Du Pre as well) to figure out what style you like best. Speaking of Du Pre, I really need to listen to her more, as I cannot remember hearing anything of hers, though I know she is extremely well-regarded.
Stu