Vandersteen

It is an spl meter
the Vandertones disc is referenced back to known inaccuracy in the meter
it is a better low frequency spl meter than many $500 pro consumer calibrated microphones.
and it is reinforcing evidence that every $ must add value.
it is impossible to setup EQ for any Vandersteen in five minutes. 11 bands per speaker with about 5 runs each required.. yields hours of work and that is before physical setup for tilt, etc.
i will make sure Richard knows about the Seattle dealer setup issues.
i do my own Vandersteen setups and have on both coasts - mostly because I am very hands on.
please PM me with name of tech who helped you.
by any chance did you keep the EQ results and notes ?

it is fantastic that you love your current speakers !!!!!! Much Joy to you in listening.

I get what the OP is saying  I owned 2 pairs of 2CEs and 2 pairs of 2CE sigs.  I liked them would recommend them but at the end of the day could not live with them.  Funny thing is I now have tried a pair  of 2Cs form the mid 80s and I have to honest i like them better.  They are not as smooth and refined as the later units but images are much more well defined and clear. Almost Thiel like with out the coldness.  Also seem more dynamic.  I am guessing it is the fabric tweeter on the older C that I like verses a metal dome on the newer ones.

+1  @geph0007  I loved the fabric tweeter in the 2C as well.  Although the model 3s had greater treble detail, it came at the cost of an upper midrange emphasis and an unnatural "crispness" in the treble".  Splashy cymbals with a "plasticy" sound.

For all the 2C lovers I know of a nice pair in San Diego for not much $$$$$