While the differences between Thiel and Vandersteen seem to be very apparent to those on this forum, it surprises me that so many here, besides the Bdunne and Stevecham, fail to hear how much they have in common. My final decision ultimately came betweene Thiel and Vandersteen, I chose Thiel. Seems a lot of folks here failed to note that Bdunne previouly owned Thiels before Vandersteen and misses some of the qualites the Thiels provided.
I'd like to point out to Ddunne that the newer Thiel 3.6's are not sealed boxes, don't go as low and harder to drive than his previous Thiel 03a's. If your looking to recover that sound quality, may I suggest the Thiel 3.5's, as they are most similar yet quite a bit more refined. They can be found at absolute bargain prices now.
I'd like to point out to Ddunne that the newer Thiel 3.6's are not sealed boxes, don't go as low and harder to drive than his previous Thiel 03a's. If your looking to recover that sound quality, may I suggest the Thiel 3.5's, as they are most similar yet quite a bit more refined. They can be found at absolute bargain prices now.