Von Schweikert DB99 or Vandersteen 5A ??

Sorry Delancey- you never said you heard the 5As at a dealer. That's what happens when you make posts at 2:30am!

Fsarc,
The 5A's I heard were at a dealer who sold Vandy and BAT. It was not my system so I cannot comment on the filter setting etc. However, I will say that this dealer is a meticulous audiophile. I agree the best scenario is to maintain amp signature and have placement independence. However, if you have to choose one the the former is much better to have than the latter. I'm having the same experience with the rear tweeter on my DB99's. I hardly ever use it. As for 2:30am posts, we are all crazy about the hobby. Best....

I got a 2 hour listen to the *VR-4 SR's* a couple days ago (at the dealer who didn't carry the DB-99's) nice sound, smooth, balanced, good imaging, etc.

I know they're a different design, but could the DB-99's be considered a somewhat higher league than the VR-4 SR's. ?

With respect to the DB99s VS. the VR4SR question...

In my opinion, the DB99s are *definitely* in a bigger (and better) league than the VR4SRs (I would say there is no competition at all between the two)... I loved the DB99s when I heard them earlier this year, while the VR4SRs heard on the same day left me unimpressed and disappointed (as they are the only VS speakers I haven't cared for). I can't really say the two sounded very much alike either. Soundstage, imaging, bass extension, midrange purity, sensitivity -- all were heavily in favor of the DB99s. The DB99s pulled me into the music, and just let me enjoy the performance, while the SRs just left me cold... I would describe them as lifeless.

The speakers the DB99s sound more similar to actually are the Tyler Acoustics Linbrook Signature System speakers... They also had a very similar sound to the top VS speakers like the VR-9s and VR-12s (but obviously on a smaller scale)... Pretty good company in my book. I definitely encourage an audition before buying the VR4SRs.

---Dave

Thought I might try to revive this thread as I'm pondering the same decision - DB99/5a/(Verity Parsifal?). My room is 18x30 with wood floors and lots of glass, also open to other areas. Currently have an Art Audio Jota 24w SET (no preamp, running direct from Modwright 3910) and Devore Gibbon Super 8 speakers. Listen to everything but lean towards acoustic, jazz, world, classical, not a lot of cheese grater guitar/hair band stuff. But would like to crank up Steely Dan/The Band/Raindogs sometimes. System sounds a little boxed in and congested at times so I'm thinking about a larger speaker. I'm also considering the new Verity Parsifal Ovation. My one concern about the VS DB99 is that I heard it can sound forward. My Jota/Gibbon combo certainly couldn't be accused of being laid back (it doesn't feel like a mid-hall presentation to me) and I wouldn't want any more of the InYourFace quality. I'm aware that the Vandersteen 5a would require an amp change also. I'll be able to audition the 5a but not the DB99 or Parsifal (short of a couple of plane rides). Any wisdom out there (I'm sure there is)? Thanks
Sam