I own Vandersteen 5A's and don't find them dark at all. I'm using all Ayre electronics and the system is completely balanced. I've also heard the 5A's with Audio Research gear and found that combination wonderful as well. When I listened to the 7's and the 5A Carbons, the sound was so close to my 5A's that I couldn't justify the upgrade. Richard tells me that if I got the other speakers home, I would hear the differences, but in the store, they sound pretty similar.
Thiel CS 3.7 and Vandersteen 5a, 5a Carbon
I currently have Thiel 3.6's and have enjoyed them very much. I am considering changing to the Vandersteen 5a's or possibly the 5a Carbons. I have read some excellent reviews of the Thiel 3.7's, but have not heard them and it would be difficult for me to do so currently. I would be interested in the opinions of those who are familiar with these speakers. Thanks.