Comparison of Thiel CS2.4 vs. Vandersteen 3A Sig.

>>To comment on one question, Thiel are more harsh and detailed<<

Could be poor listening skills and/or associated equipment.

Thiels are not harsh.

I've heard both, although months apart and in a different room. I think they both sound terrific. My impression is that the Thiel is quicker with, perhaps, a bit more resolution. Also, I think the Vandy is slightly more coherent and musical. Tough call - I could live happily with either. I would have figured out how to pay for the 3As a long time ago if the WAF wasn't so low. I was ready to pull the trigger on the 2.4s last year but was set back with some unexpected expenses. . . I also know someone who has lived with both. Although he used to prefer the Thiels, he has recently concluded that they tend to overemphasize sibilance and now thinks Vandys are better overall. I have been enjoying my Thiel 1.6s for almost 5 years but have been wanting more bass. I've recently decide to try the new Vandy 2ce Sig II, which is supposed to be nearly identical to the 3A Sig from the midbass up, but in a smaller package.

C'mon guys, pile it on I can take it :)

I am not the first nor the last to have an issue with Thiels.... to each their own.

Given the assumption that each speaker would be set up properly with the proper ancillary equipment, this is probably a chocolate and vanilla issue; however, to MY EARS, the Vandys are easier to integrate into an existing system. IOW, there is a wider range of gear out there that sounds more like what I want to hear. I prefer a more coherent, relaxed sound and to me, the Thiels are more analytical than I prefer.

Chad,
With an incorrect amplifier match (I won't name any lest I start a war) I agree that Thiels CAN sound a little edgy or grainy BUT any speaker can be mismatched.

Also, and this is very important, it could be Thiels simply don't suit your preferences. There are some very popular speakers (again no names) that I would never buy because they don't please my ears.

Good luck.