Another Vandersteen model 2 question

Without going into great detail, the new Vandy 2Ce Sig. 2's are light years ahead of the older 2Ci. The newer line along with new drivers and fresh design techniques make the latest Vandersteen 2's a no-brainer. The difference is startling.....

Bob. Not trying to start an argument with you, but the  2 Ci's are not even close to the new 2Ce Sig. II's. Other than the "2" designation and similar looks, they are two very different speakers. Years ago I had listened to the Ci at great length , considering a possible purchase. Even back then I couldn't get past their polite, reticent, lack of dynamics type of sound, not to mention the rolled off high frequencies and lack of mid-range resolution. The new 2 Ce's have none of these problems. I know it sounds like I am bashing the older Vandys, but even back then I wanted more out of my loudspeakers. It wasn't till the last couple of years that Vandersteen started making speakers (within my price range) that finally gave me what I wanted from them. That is why I have the  Treo CT's along with a 2Wq sub, soon to be two subs. (maybe).  If the OP wants to keep the Ci's, fine. I'm totally ok with that. Just that I believe there is a huge difference between the old and the new.....IMO:)

kalali,

I guess my version of "polite" sort of ties in with dynamics. The much older Vandy's  sounded, to me, like about mid hall at a concert rather then being closer, but not right on top of the performance. You just didn't hear the "punch" of the music when it got loud with them. This has nothing to do with an imbalance of frequencies or colourations that some speakers have. That was common years ago, but much less so now. I agree with you that you don't want tweeters that sizzle. The older model 2c had a severe upper frequency dip that just made the speakers totally un-involving  and lifeless to me, in the treble range. The Ci's less so, but still reticent. The new Carbon tweeter that I have in my Treo's doesn't  sizzle at all. It is only airy and very transparent. The ceramic coated tweeter that Vandersteen uses in the 2Ce sig.II and 3A is also smooth and airy, but not quite as transparent as the Carbon Tweeter.

   Stereo5......I believe you have or are getting the GoldenEar Triton Reference. I would love to hear that loudspeaker. I bet it is something special!

   Kalali.... Some years ago, one of the big audio mags made a Gossary of Terms for audiophile sound. Can't remember which one or when.

Cheers,
Tim

My quibbles aside, it was for comparison only between the old and new Vandy 2's. I do think the Ci is still a very listenable loudspeaker and all that counts is the OP being satisfied with them or not. If he got them for a good price and they are in good condition, then his purchase is well justified.