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Speaker Recommendations - from Vandersteen 5As

I have been using Vandersteen Model 5 speakers in my system with excellent results.  I like the open sound, balanced top to bottom sound, sound stage 3D dimension, and having deep bass that is adjustable.  They really have a huge sound that is also very musical.  I used to own Alon V MKII speakers and the Alnico mid-range driver produced a better mid-range sound  compared to the Vandersteens in that one aspect.  That mid-range was just pure magic and the Alons had more impact but were not close to being as balanced of a speaker.  I recently sold my older model 5s because I got a great deal on a much better cosmetic condition Vandersteen model 5As.  To me the 5As just don't sound like my old model 5s.  I have not really had the chance to play around with them that much and my system unfortunately changes in some ways because my Audiomeca CD transport bit the dust.  That was one hell of a great sounding CDT.

I am looking in the $7500 price range and usually purchase used.  I have plenty of dealers in the NYC area that I can visit and people that I know so I will be taking the time to take a look around.  I do like the size of the Vandersteen 5s so that if something I would be considering.  I was thinking of a short list and thought Verity Parsifals, Sonus Faber, Legacy, DeVore, etc.  I tend to focus on piano so I need a speaker that really can produce that sound first before I look elsewhere.  I probably lean towards a musical sound maybe slightly warm, open on top with air.  I can adjust the sound by changing caps and resistors in my components so I guess I just need a balanced sounding speaker with a great mid-range that can also product deep bass.  

Also note that I build my own DAC (separate power supply), preamp (separate power supply) and power amp so I can build anything for any speaker.  Right now my DAC is a DHT design, preamp 6SN7 design and amp is a hybrid 6SN7 design.  My system is dead quiet and the components are reference quality compared to the best that I have compared them to at local dealer showrooms.  I only spin CDs right now through a transport and I am using a Metronome CD1A  transport with a separate power supply.

So knowing that I am in the NYC area, what speakers in the price range should be on my short list to go our and hear?

I probably sound like an A-hole but I would really like some recommendations.  If you are in the local area, I would enjoy the company if you are interested.  I'll buy the pizza and beer!

Thanks and Happy Listening.
bigkidz
yogiboy's avatar
yogiboy
5,464 posts
 
You should check out Spendor. The D7 is within your budget!
https://www.spendoraudio.com/#products
gdnrbob
4,409 posts
 
As you are in the NY area, I would contact Audioconnection for a demo of ProAc. Similar to Vandy's but with a British sound that may be closer to what you are looking for.
And, if midrange is your fav, have you thought about electrostatics?
To be fair, what are you using with the 5a's? 
If you are game, I would love to meet up.
Bob
pmotz
409 posts
 
While I can’t offer any good suggestions (other than maybe the Verity’s) I am more interested in what you don’t like about the 5A’s versus the 5’s.  I have 5’s and really like them, and have certainly thought about upgrading, but every time I have heard more recent models in a show environment they sound quite different, and not in a good way.  One person here, don’t recall who, said the 5A was the pinnacle of that model.  Apparently you don’t agree?  

One more thing, I would follow gdnrbob’s suggestion to visit Audio Connection.  They know the Vandersteen line really well and could point you in the right direction, perhaps it’s just a change in electronics or cabling that will correct what you don’t like about the 5A.
bigkidz OP
3,311 posts
 
Thanks for the great recommendations - responses so far.

I know John at AC very well.  My 5As are just not balanced sounding like my 5s were.  Like I said, I need to play around with them a little more.  I know John would come out and help me when I am ready.  I have really not Ventured out to hear speakers in quit a while so I figured now would be the best time.

I had partnered my equipment with GT Audio here in New Jersey. His speakers are fantastic sounding if I wanted to to more towards electrostatics.

My equipment is on listed here on Audiogon.  I make components so there is nothing out there that really competes with what I have for DAC, Preamp or power amp. 

I have also heard the ProAcs at Audio Connection and they IMO they did not compete with the Vandersteens.  Like I said, my system has changed slightly since the 5s so I need to get back to that system to really evaluate the 5As.

@gdnrbob are you in NYC or the area?  Let me know and we can schedule a play date!
gdnrbob
4,409 posts
 
@bigkidz ,
I’m on Long Island. Let’s make a date. I know for a fact there is a good pizza place just down the road.-though Rutt’s Hut isn’t far either.
I haven't heard of GT Audio until now. I will try to listen to a pair.
As you have listed your equipment here,
I will look at your system. I just can't understand why you are having issues with the 5a's.
Bob
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