AlbertPorter & Programmergeek: As Bornie points out the DB99 is very similar to the Vandy 5a in regard to the powered and adjustable woofer. You might have been talking about some other speaker in the Von Schweikert line like the VR4jr.
I think both speakers are great values and although I do not sell Vandersteen speakers, I have a great deal of respect for Richard. Solid designer, solid product.
Even though the 5a's have a powered woofer, they do actually require a bit of power. They are only 87 db efficient. I know for Albert that seems like "high efficiency" coming from those Ultimates :)
As a VSA dealer I am also extremely familiar with the DB99's. Being as objective as I can, I would say the the extension in the highs with the Vandy's is better than the standard DB99, but when you add the "super tweeter", the edge goes to the Von Schweikert. Midrange clarity, transparency and detail is better in the DB99, with the 5a's having slightly more warmth and forgiveness.
Bass is exceptional with both speakers, but the Vandy's are a little tougher to get right. Setup is tough. When they are properly dialed in, the bass is terrific. Both kick like a mule.
Again, both speakers are fantastic values. It is a real matter of taste and I would think if you have 20 people listen to both, you would have a split right down the middle. It really depends on what you value most in a speaker.
I think both speakers are great values and although I do not sell Vandersteen speakers, I have a great deal of respect for Richard. Solid designer, solid product.
Even though the 5a's have a powered woofer, they do actually require a bit of power. They are only 87 db efficient. I know for Albert that seems like "high efficiency" coming from those Ultimates :)
As a VSA dealer I am also extremely familiar with the DB99's. Being as objective as I can, I would say the the extension in the highs with the Vandy's is better than the standard DB99, but when you add the "super tweeter", the edge goes to the Von Schweikert. Midrange clarity, transparency and detail is better in the DB99, with the 5a's having slightly more warmth and forgiveness.
Bass is exceptional with both speakers, but the Vandy's are a little tougher to get right. Setup is tough. When they are properly dialed in, the bass is terrific. Both kick like a mule.
Again, both speakers are fantastic values. It is a real matter of taste and I would think if you have 20 people listen to both, you would have a split right down the middle. It really depends on what you value most in a speaker.