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Seeking informed advice on speaker acquisition (Vandersteen vs. OHM Walsh)

I bought a used pair of Vandersteen 2CEs about 6 months ago. They sound great to my relatively uninformed ears, but I would like to step it up. The Vandys are 25+ years old.
I have two speakers under consideration and would like input from individuals who have heard both. I am considering upgrading the Vandys to the 2CE Signature II model. I am sure the improvements in the last quarter century will greatly enhance my listening experience. The other speaker I am considering is an Ohm Walsh 2000. I have read many rave reviews on the Ohm Walsh and am seeking input from those who have heard both.

I would also like to hear from those who have heard both speakers, but have an alternative in mind. My budget cap is $3000. I prefer to buy a new pair, but I am not opposed to acquiring a used offering in great condition. I am in the Atlanta area if anyone has a used pair for sale.

My room specs are 18 x 15 with 7 foot ceilings.
System:Rogue Audio Cronus Magnum II; Merrill Super12 Polytable; Oppo UDP-203; Parks Audio Hybrid Budgie phono
arturos73

Showing 3 responses by gdnrbob

gdnrbob
4,489 posts
 
I am a Vandy owner and a bit of a fanboy. 
I also like the sound of Ohm speakers.
For me, it would depend upon the situation.
For critical listening and precise presentation, the Vandersteen's would be my choice.
If you want a more general presentation with room filling sound, the Ohm's would be a way to go.
Not that the Ohm's can't present a soundstage, the Vandersteen's use phase and time alignment, which produces a very coherent sound. The Ohm's are more like a direct/refecting speaker (think Bose)-The sound is nice and diffuse.
Just my 2 cents...
Bob
gdnrbob
4,489 posts
 
@arturos,
Thanks for clarifying your listening habits.
In my experience, Vandy's are very good even with off center listening.
Like you, I don't want to be held in a vice. My chair is literally in front of the left speaker, but I still get a very nice soundstage. And, the sound is quite listenable even behind the speakers.
I owned the 3a sigs and currently the Treo's. Both exhibited the same qualities. So, I think whatever model you choose, you should be good to go. 
Like I said, the Ohm's are more direct/reflecting. Given proper positioning, I am sure they can offer a detailed soundstage like the Vandy's, but in my opinion, having a time and phase aligned speaker is the best way to go.
I wish there were a way for you to audition both speakers. 
Where are you located?
Bob
gdnrbob
4,489 posts
 
@audionoobie, Nice post and it describes what I meant by 'direct/reflecting' of the Ohm's. I really like the sound, but I think the Vandy's do it better.
If you aren't hearing subtleties in your music, I would consider changing your amp and preamp. Ayre is one of the best matches for Vandy's.
It sounds like you are in the NY area, if you visited Ohm. If so, I would contact John Rutan at Audioconnection and get his take on your current equipment. I promise he won't try to sell you anything (that you don't want), and will give you the best information on how to open up your Vandy's.

I hope we haven't overloaded the OP.
Bob 
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