Vandersteen 2CE sig II first run or current?....

I've heard that Richard can be forthright.  I've not talked to him, but I imagine you'd need to be forthright with him in return.  He makes speakers after all, not cures for cancer or economic asylum for all.  That being said, I own the latest version of his model 2s.  They are one of the best speakers I've owned.  The old stereotype of a "veiled, laid back or overly warm speaker" no longer applies.  This new midrange is very transparent and accurate.  I've owned Thiel, Merlin, Avalon, Tannoy, B&W and more.  The overall balance, coherence, timbre, tonality and bass are truly amazing for any speaker, much less one that retails for approx. $2500.00.  I have to be honest, the aesthetics are an acquired taste.  However, the music that the Vandersteens make transcend most if not all of my quibbles with their "looks".  Also, all this musical satisfaction in a way less than ideal room.  I use a Belles Soloist integrated, Rotel CD player and Harmonic Tech cables.  My experience.  Happy New Year.

" I've heard that Richard can be forthright."

He certainly can - when I called and told him I'd detonated one of the mid range drivers on my 4As, he acted as if I had abused one of his children (I hadn't, but my amp had an output device that had committed hara kiri, and took out the voice coil on the driver when it expired).    He did calm down - he is actually a very nice guy, he just doesn't suffer fools (or presumed fools) gladly!

I have the 2CE Sig II and really like it. I have MMG's in another audio system. The only thing I don't is the lack of low to very low tight bass. But that would come if I spent more money. In the future I might add a tight sub, maybe a REL. But mostly (90%) I am very happy with them. They are very musical, and I don't have a high $$ system.

((In the future I might add a tight sub, maybe a REL. But mostly (90%) I am very happy with them. They are very musical, and I don't have a high $$ system.))
Glad you are happy,
Adding a Rel to what you have will only bloat things.
What you should do is ask your Vandersteen dealer to try the X2 assessment unit.
 High Pass into your amp start at the lowest setting listen and work up until you achieve the bass you like. you can then order the fixed x 2 that you like and then later add in a Vandersten 2WQ or 2  this will provide a far better in room response by relieving any amps burden improving dynamics clarity and transparency in the whole system .
 Best JohnnyR
Vandy Dealer

By the way, my conversation with R Vandy is something I treasure as a fond and to me somewhat hilarious memory. Passion and enthusiasm about what you do is far cooler than otherwise, and that experience made me an even bigger fan…besides…he was 100% correct and appropriate in his response.