Vienna Beethoven Owners--I need your advice

I have the opportunity to purchase some very nice demo units in Rosewood for little more than typical used price with the warranty--probably because the Sumiko rep is bragging about the new totally redisigned Beethoven now trickling in. They are low hour and flawless. I heard some of their music, including Yoyo Ma. The cello seemed alive. However, when I returned with my own cd's I was surprised by a few things. There was plenty of base in Dire Straits--more than I expected, but the voice was so smooth and muted that it didn't sound real. I tried Stephan Grappeli and the high notes of the violin also seemed so smooth, without any timber. I then listened to some salsa, which sounded pretty darn good. As you can see, my tastes cover a broad range.

I should point out that the equipment wasn't too impressive, some Integra (Onkyo?) seperates that I am not familiar with. The cabling was high end though.

Was I auditioning speakers that weren't broken, inadequately powered, or both?

I remember auditioning Mozarts several years ago at another dealer using Mark Levinson seperates and they were most impressive.

Thanks for any feedback.