Sean - Here are some exerpts from the Stereophile Nov 2001 review:
"It was immediately apparent that the Valhalla (IC's)had a slight but distinct tonal signature." and "the slight lack of warmth and weight, combined with the air and treble extension, did give the Valhallas a distinct character".
They were short of calling them the very best, instead calling them "some of the very best". They did call them sensational.