I own(ed) both the 5 and the 5A.
The upgrade from 5 to 5A, in my system, provided a serious increase in low level detail and even clearer sound through the midrange. The bass improved as well, but I found the other improvements more important for my taste.
Looking back, I would say that getting the source component as good as it can be would be a slightly better investment and *then* move to the model 5A.
I think that the model 5A may even be too good for the gear I am currently using, which is quite good.
It depends on how you want to upgrade your system- the 5A reveals every little change made to the system clearer than any other Vandersteen.
Good luck!
Will
The upgrade from 5 to 5A, in my system, provided a serious increase in low level detail and even clearer sound through the midrange. The bass improved as well, but I found the other improvements more important for my taste.
Looking back, I would say that getting the source component as good as it can be would be a slightly better investment and *then* move to the model 5A.
I think that the model 5A may even be too good for the gear I am currently using, which is quite good.
It depends on how you want to upgrade your system- the 5A reveals every little change made to the system clearer than any other Vandersteen.
Good luck!
Will