Based on your description--you seem to really like these speakers. That my friend is half the battle. Forget about what other "experts" think. If you like them, then that's all there is to it. Personally, I think you would be hard pressed to find better based on the condition and price. I am a little baffled as to your comment on the highs, as this is definitely not a characteristic of the VR-4. They use a metal dome tweeter and are very detailed and not rolled off at all. Also, Yes they are 150lbs each, but they seperate into 2 sections per speaker, so they are easy to move around. This "expert" says go for it.
Albert Von Schweikert VR-4
Hello kindred spirits; I need some advice/impressions. I am considering a pristine (truly mint) pair of Von Schweikert VR-4, first edition. These have the optional rosewood end-caps and the upgraded silver wiring. I have an opportunity to buy them for $1,200. Cost in 1999 approx. $4,000.
I have enjoyed, but gotten rid of over the last few years, such goodies as the Meadowlark Shearwater "Hotrods", Apogee Duetta II (developing a slight rattle on bass notes) and a vintage pair or Yammy NS-1000 (I bought them for $40, believe it or not). I need a fitting replacement.
I auditioned the VR-4 in an audio showroom. The components included a Cambridge Audio Azur 740C CD player, a Musical Fidelity A3CR line-stage preamp, and a Boulder SS amp (model unknown). I really liked the VR-4; wide soundstage, very detailed imaging, and great mid-range for vocals & strings. Seemed a little rolled off on the treble, though. The bass is amazing, down to a true 20hz.
I'm not sure I can duplicate the sound in my listening room, however, and at 150 lbs. each its not practical to try them out. Online research indicates they were widely used as studio monitors in many recording and film studios (hard to believe given their size and weight), and the reviews seem universally good. Does anyone have any significant experience with these speakers??
I have enjoyed, but gotten rid of over the last few years, such goodies as the Meadowlark Shearwater "Hotrods", Apogee Duetta II (developing a slight rattle on bass notes) and a vintage pair or Yammy NS-1000 (I bought them for $40, believe it or not). I need a fitting replacement.
I auditioned the VR-4 in an audio showroom. The components included a Cambridge Audio Azur 740C CD player, a Musical Fidelity A3CR line-stage preamp, and a Boulder SS amp (model unknown). I really liked the VR-4; wide soundstage, very detailed imaging, and great mid-range for vocals & strings. Seemed a little rolled off on the treble, though. The bass is amazing, down to a true 20hz.
I'm not sure I can duplicate the sound in my listening room, however, and at 150 lbs. each its not practical to try them out. Online research indicates they were widely used as studio monitors in many recording and film studios (hard to believe given their size and weight), and the reviews seem universally good. Does anyone have any significant experience with these speakers??