VSA VR4 SR or JR as a match to my system and room


I want to replace my Totem Forests. I'm using a DK MkII with an FMJ23 CDP. My room tends to be brightish (lots of glass and wood) and is about 19x28x14(vaulted - approx 6000+ sq. ft.). My listening tastes are eclectic with an emphasis in Jazz and Classical, but I also like to blast alittle rock now ant then. Would the VR4 SR or JR be a good match?

Other contenders include Proac R38 (there is a dealer near by) and Merlin, but I'm just at the beginning stages of this illness and am open to other suggestions ($5 to $10K range).

BTW, I have wanted to listen to a pair of VSA VR4 SR or VSA VR4 JR's based on comments on the discussion forums. However, living in the Canadian Rockies does not bode well for having access to dealers. I've now sent two E-mails to VSA to find the nearest dealer (e.g., Seattle??)across the last two weeks but have not heard a peep from them. From what I've read, VSA seems to be a good company to deal with; however, my experience is making me wonder. Any comments regarding VSA customer service?

Thanks

John
johnrob

Showing 1 response by courtvision21cbcc

I respectfully disagree with Drseid. I heard both the JRs and SRs in the same dealer in the same room with same gear and cables. The SRs are noticeably better. No offense to the JR owners out there, as I almost bought a pair myself cause they are a very good value player. But after hearing the SRs, and given my large room, I ended up buying the bigger brother. Everything the JR did well, the SR did it better. But I do agree that if going with the SRs, make sure you have good high quality amplification, it might take more power to drive those 2- 8.5 inch bass drivers, vs. driving 2- 7 inch ones on the JR. Also, make sure you have good sounding gear and cables to support it, or else you will hear whatever's in your system chain, cause they are very revealing and transparent. They do show the character of your system, good or bad.

After buying the SRs and living with them over 8 months or so, I haven't looked back. These are amazing speakers and will perform up to the task and then some - if properly setup.

As always try to audition a pair and judge for yourself.

I would also recommend Krell Resolution 1 or 2, very impressive speakers, especially if you can find them used or demo. Or perhaps the Revel Ultima Studios, but they might be a little harder to drive compared to the above speakers.

Good luck.