I believe one benchmark for valuing the upgrade option is the difference in used prices. Right now a 5A vs a 5 in the classifieds in $7400. So if you sold your 5s and then bought used 5As it would cost you net about $7K. Add to that shipping and whatever you would have to pay to get a dealer to help set them up and you are probably not far from the $9K. To me, if you really like the 5 I would go listen to the 5A somehow and if it seemed like a great place for you to be, then throw down for upgrading your speakers. It's only your money.
To those who've tkn Vandersteen 5A upgrade plunge
I've got a pair of Vandersteen 5's (am the original owner), and am curious as to what the experience has been for those who have upgraded, in regards to changes in the sound, since it's an expensive upgrade, and I've heard differing opinions before as to just how much of a difference it makes.
I've considered taking the money it would cost and putting it into a relatively better turntable cartridge, cd player, or possibly preamp at a future date; I currently have an SME 20/SME V combo plus an Ayre cx-7e, K3x, and V5xe(though it's quite possible I'd spend the saved money on the rig anyway, even w/ the upgrade...). Do you think the money is better spent elsewhere, or as well or better spent here?
Thanks for any feedback!
I've considered taking the money it would cost and putting it into a relatively better turntable cartridge, cd player, or possibly preamp at a future date; I currently have an SME 20/SME V combo plus an Ayre cx-7e, K3x, and V5xe(though it's quite possible I'd spend the saved money on the rig anyway, even w/ the upgrade...). Do you think the money is better spent elsewhere, or as well or better spent here?
Thanks for any feedback!