Brand new Vandersteen Model 2's

Vandersteen makes running changes to models without changing the name (other manufacturers also do this, eg, Ayre). The 2Ce Sig II got a new midrange driver circa 2012 that was unannounced and I think RV made one or two other changes before the Sig III. So, the change from "Sig II" to "Sig III" is more than the crossover and removal of tone controls. I also know from experience that upgrading the crossover can make a very substantial difference so I'm not going to poo-poo that change.

Also, I'm confident a 2020 3A Sig is not the same as a 1999 3a Sig.

Folks just don't realize how great capacitors can make such a difference.

Absolutely. I have first-hand experience with this as I replaced *all* parts in my Thiel CS2.4 SE except the drivers and cabinets. Heck, I even heard a small but meaningful difference among woofer *shunt* caps identical other than voltage rating (and, therefore, film thickness). I have no doubt this is the best model 2 ever and hope to hear one sooner than later.

So true, Ayre, ARC, and Aesthetix are exquisite with Vandersteen and Thiel. Not heard Brinkman.