For HT you want something clean, fast, and dynamic with a minimum of transient overhang, ringing, and cabinet resonances. Vandersteen and Wilson address these issues in different ways, but between the two, IMO the Wilsons tend to be faster and more articulate. Being pretty sensitive they are capable of excellent dynamics on a moderate amount of power. If your Vandy's seem like "lumps," it may be because they require so much power just to get moving. I'm pretty sure they're around 86 dB efficient where the Wilsons are somewhere above 90. This is like quadrupling your amplifier power.
Wilson Audio Question compaired to Vandersteen
I have a friend that is a Wilson Audio fan and I have always liked them he is using the watt puppy 7, they just have a great punch and are very clear, also there center is awesome looking. My current speakers are just boring lumps so something that stands out would be nice. I use my speakers 80% for HT these days. I have a chance to get some at a great deal anyhow I am not sure where to start. I have Vandersteen 5a but what is the Wilson Audio model compared to the 5a's. Also I know what I hear but what are other people’s opinion between the two? Thank you in advance for any input.