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Calling on Vandersteen 5a owners

I am getting ready to pull the trigger on a pair of Vandersteen 5a/VCC-5 speakers. I decided to go with the cherry finish. Is the high gloss finish worth the extra $$? I have not been able to see the cherry finish in person, can anyone comment on the finish? My dealer said it is by far the most popular finish. Any regrets with your purchase?

Thanks Rob
robkato
whatugot's avatar
whatugot
13 posts
 
The Vandersteen 5a's are my favorite speakers under $24,000. They are my favorite speakers and I think any color is a bargin. My close friend and I went shopping for these at Audio Connection in NJ about a year ago. He is to say the least, very satisfied. I have always loved Vandesteens, and one day I hope to afford the 5a's for myself. I have been around audio alot. See my web site:
exoticaudio.org
Peace,
John M
Ag insider logo xs@2x
tdaudio
201 posts
 
Rob

I've had my 5A for almost 2 years. A great product, very happy. My standard walnut is very nice but not great IMO.

Have not seen the cherry in person either but several months ago a pair in cherry was for sale here with outstanding pix. Don't recall if it was high gloss or not but the natural cherry finish looked fantastic, just like cherry should. A great choice. BTW, I have a lot of cherry woodwork (and some walnut)in my house.

I would call Vandersteen about the high gloss & cherry.

Rob, what amp are you thinking of using?

Terry
musicmannj
21 posts
 
I own a pair in rosewood with a high gloss finish and would say without a doubt the gloss finish is worth it, regardless if you get them in rosewood or cherry. It transforms the speaker from average looking to exquisite and really makes the speaker look as expensive as it is. Think about how much you look at them while you are listening. Don't cheapen out and regret it if you can afford the upgrade finish
robkato OP
1 posts
 
Terry,

Currently I will be using a Bryston amp, but I plan on updating the amp within 1 year after my purchase. I was thinking about trying out Audio Research, Balanced Audio or Jeff Rowland gear. I will be using the speakers in a mix music/ht setup so I am targeting solid state amps.

Rob
mikej
172 posts
 
Hi Rob, great choice on your speakers! I vote for the gloss unless you like to see and feel the wood grain on the speaker. They're pretty different finishes IMHO. As for amps, you should add the BEL 1001 to your short list. Nothing I've heard comes close and you'll hear every ounce of extra performnace with the 5As.
Let us know what you decide on!
Cheers,
Michael
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