Von Schweikert speakers..

That's the rub...I can't audition them without flying somewhere.

I understand completely. I too bought all of my VS speakers without audition. I did a great deal of surfing/reading through the archives here, and bought them used.

I bought my VR-7se's without an audition as well and have been very happy with the purchase.

If you were going to fly anywhere, I would suggest RMAF in Denver this coming weekend. AVS will be there as well as many other manufacturers of fine audio equipment - it would be a great way to get a comparative feel for what's out there. You might even get to meet the now-notorious Albert!!(who, by the way, has provided exceptional support to me, and is 1 of audio's true "good guys" IMHO).

Fplanner:

Yes that would be pretty much ideal. I have been on the phone with Albert several times the last few days and have the VS4 SR mkIIs on order. I don't really need to hear them up front with the 90 day trial they offer. I am planning to attend the show in Las Vegas this January. Can't wait.

I don't think you'll be disappointed. And Albert's no crook. Since I have a large room I discussed with him whether I should get the Unifield 3 or the (more expensive) VR5 Anniversary Edition. He convinced me that the smaller Unifield 3 should work just fine and he was right! I couldn't be happier with my purchase.

Your speakers will take a while to break in but your patience will be well rewarded.

Von Schweikert was one of the designers of the Andra, I believe...