Von Schweikert VR-33

Has anyone else noticed the similarities between the VR-33 and the GoldenEar Triton 2? Both are trapezoidal footprint towers wrapped in a knit sock, have an MTM array with cast frame midranges for the low mids on up, and use a special approach to the bass to get response down to the mid-20Hz region.

Differences include that the VR-33 is specifically made to be used close to a wall and uses a quasi line-transmission loaded woofer while the Triton uses an onboard class D power amp driving a pair of oval woofers augmented by passive radiators, and the VR-33 uses a concentric ring radiator tweeter while the Triton uses a Heil-style folded ribbon. The VR-33 is made in USA but direct marketed to come in at $3750/pair. The Triton 2 is made in China but is available at $2500/pair through a dealer network.

Has anyone heard both? I wonder if the Triton 2's imaging holds up when placed close to the wall, given that the bass can easily be adjusted for placement in-room. I've heard and was impressed by the Triton 2's, but I feel like I need to return with an armload of LPs for further investigation.

They are both towers but beyond that, I don't see much similarity in design or intended market.

Gopher,

I wish you the bets of luck with the speakers. I have owned three of Albert's designs, the original VR-4 (Silver Version), the VR2 and the VR4 HSE. I know he can make a quality product, so you will likely be impressed if your amp is up to the task.

Shakey

I demo'ed both the vr-33's at a local audiophile's home (graciously arranged by Albert) and the Triton 2's at a local dealer.

The dealer's Triton 2 setup was far from optimal due to cramped quarters and the associated electronics were mid-fi solid state(I'm a tubes and vinyl guy). Even in less than ideal demo conditions, imho the Tritons are voiced toward the home theater market.

The in-home demo of the vr33's blew me away. Driven by a small Ampino class D amp and pc audio source, the vr33's simply sounded naturally musical and easily filled a large listening room driven by a few watts. I placed my order with Albert the next day.

In a head to head comparison, different demo conditions notwithstanding, I would give higher marks to the vr33's in all categories that we audiophiles value. The Triton's bass output is adjustable with its built-in amp, which may be considered to be an advantage, but I sensed a discontinuity between the low bass and mid bass which is seamless in the vr33's. The vr33 is a hands down winner in the critical midrange. That is one fantastic driver! The Triton tweeter may have an edge in terms of detail, but again imho there may be issues with integration with the mids and long term listening fatigue.

I've had a pair for 7 months and have been extremely satisfied. Your question about sonic traits is slightly difficult because I don't spend much time thinking about their sonic traits... I just enjoy the music. However, if I had to describe them I would say:

- very good soundstage and image
- non-fatiguing presentation; not overly warm but far from cold and analytical
- well integrated base
- Good dynamic range
- Can handle multiple genres of music well

Only downsides I have found are:
- They are very large. Although these can go close to the wall I wouldn't exactly say the WIF is high. I thought the misses was going to make me send them back (but luckily they stayed).
- I opted for the bi-wire option and the upgraded wood caps. I'm not sure of the sonic benefits of the dual binding posts, but I was certainly a bit disappointed with the quality of the upgraded caps. Very plastic veneer look and feel.