Another Vandersteen model 2 question

Thanks for the input. I agree with the comment about "polite" sound quality of the Ci but I personally don't find them rolled-off at higher frequencies nor the mid-range lack of resolution but all things are relative so I'm not questioning the input. I'm not discounting the input from mr_m but I have no doubt that improvements have been made. Perhaps it boils down to personal choice, just like any other speaker question. I'm fortunate to live a little over an hour away from Audio Connection and might have the opportunity to try the new models at home. Or I can take my amp and try it at the store. I also know there are lots of options in the $3K price range, new or used. At this point I just wanted to hear from folks with first hand experience and get an idea of what I might be missing. 

By the way, I don't know if there's a standard definition for term "polite" but my definition is a balanced sound without any particular range of frequencies jumping out or be more forward/present than any other range. Or maybe a little darker than some speakers where the top end just sparkles a bit more than others. I've always found the top end sparkle or fuzz real exciting during dealer demos but find it fatiguing at home. Anyway, it would be nice to have an audiophile Glossary of Terms so everyone can speak the same language. 

Now would be good a time to upgrade as Vandersteen has a trade in program on the 2's. Check the website or call Audio Connection for the details.

kalali,

I guess my version of "polite" sort of ties in with dynamics. The much older Vandy's  sounded, to me, like about mid hall at a concert rather then being closer, but not right on top of the performance. You just didn't hear the "punch" of the music when it got loud with them. This has nothing to do with an imbalance of frequencies or colourations that some speakers have. That was common years ago, but much less so now. I agree with you that you don't want tweeters that sizzle. The older model 2c had a severe upper frequency dip that just made the speakers totally un-involving  and lifeless to me, in the treble range. The Ci's less so, but still reticent. The new Carbon tweeter that I have in my Treo's doesn't  sizzle at all. It is only airy and very transparent. The ceramic coated tweeter that Vandersteen uses in the 2Ce sig.II and 3A is also smooth and airy, but not quite as transparent as the Carbon Tweeter.

   Stereo5......I believe you have or are getting the GoldenEar Triton Reference. I would love to hear that loudspeaker. I bet it is something special!

   Kalali.... Some years ago, one of the big audio mags made a Gossary of Terms for audiophile sound. Can't remember which one or when.

Cheers,
Tim