Since you discovered Gould and the Goldbergs, I have two comments.
First, I personally find the original 1955 version almost unbearable. I love his playing, but the mono sound is exhausting. Then I discovered the Zenph Re-Performance recording. In one word: stunning. Especially with the binaural tracks, it sounds like Gould is playing right there in your living room. Give it a listen. http://www.amazon.com/Bach-Goldberg-Variations-Performance-R... — Neat technology behind this, too.
Second, try Murray Perahia's version. Gould and Perahia are my favorites for piano Bach.
First, I personally find the original 1955 version almost unbearable. I love his playing, but the mono sound is exhausting. Then I discovered the Zenph Re-Performance recording. In one word: stunning. Especially with the binaural tracks, it sounds like Gould is playing right there in your living room. Give it a listen. http://www.amazon.com/Bach-Goldberg-Variations-Performance-R... — Neat technology behind this, too.
Second, try Murray Perahia's version. Gould and Perahia are my favorites for piano Bach.