Now we know that there have been many renditions of the theme song, my question is, what elements of each would you combine to make the "perfect" version?

For me, it would be:
- S2-and-up lyrics.
- The instrumental intro from the S2 version.
- Orchestration from S1.
- The end stinger from the later version (not sure which, but it had to be sometime from S5-up when they redid the orchestration)

I like the opening where the "mary tyler moore" goes in fron S5.
I think the lyrics to sum up the show should go like this:

How will you make it on your own?
This world is awfully big,
And girl this time you're all alone.
But it's time you started living,
Time you let someone else do some giving.

Love is all around,
No need to waste it.
You can have the town,
Why don't you take it?
You might just make it after all!

Who can turn the world on with her smile?
Who can take a nothing day,
And suddenly make it all seem worthwhile?
Well it's you girl,
And you should know it.
With each glance and every little movement you show it.

Love is all around,
No need to waste it.
You can have the town why don't you take it?
You might just make it after all.
(doo-doo-doo-doo-doo-doo-doo-doody-doo-doo-doo)
YOU'RE GONNA MAKE IT AFTER ALL!!!!!!!
(doo-doo-doo-doo-DOO-doody-doo-doo-doo-fades out)
(Mary throws the hat up on the big DOO)

Sorry about the doos, but you know what I mean, lol... ;)

Now we know that there have been many renditions of the theme song, my question is, what elements of each would you combine to make the "perfect" version?

For me, it would be:
- S2-and-up lyrics.
- The instrumental intro from the S2 version.
- Orchestration from S1.
- The end stinger from the later version (not sure which, but it had to be sometime from S5-up when they redid the orchestration)

Speaking of the S1 orchestration...I'm trying to figure out the first few notes. How did they get that rich punchy bass at the very beginning? It sounds like neither a brass instrument nor bass guitar. And then the higher, sustained 4th note...what instrument is that? Any musicians here that would know?

Thanks!