Vandersteens

Perhaps, but given a good amp (they are a bit amp finicky) the sound can be quite close. We found you also need to sit closer to the 1's than the 2's. The 1's are an extremely good buy if that's all you can afford. I can't remember any other thousand dollar speaker that gives you so much. Just remember the amp can make a big difference.

Own IC's. In my ears, they throw a "broad" soundstage which is very pleasant to listen to. Chashas1 is correct - Nearfield behaves much better. I've seen updates where the socks are removed, and a smaller ribbon tweeter is mounted on the top as well as repleacing the speakers with kevlar woven B&W parts. Offers you definition in the high/mid ranges. Do not exepect lots of base out of these. They need to be driven somewhat hard to sound good in my experience. To me, the best of its advantage is the "Broad" soundstage.

We have both these speakers. The 1C's were purchased used here and fill a living room with great sound with inexpensive NAD equipment. The 2CE signatures are in the den and sound fuller, warmer and yes, have more bass......more "there" there as they used to say in the magazines. HOwever, having said that, we listen to the 1c's for music more these days because of their location while the 2's in a larger space do double duty with the TV/blu ray. I don't think you can go wrong with either one of these all around good performers.

There are many threads on Audiogon devoted to Vandersteen speakers. Do a search, and you'll be able to read many insightful comments on the Vandersteen sound.

For me, in my room, with my system (click on my "system") the 1C's are pretty perfect. Plenty of soundstage (width and depth), a wonderful combination of dynamics and truth of timbre, excellent extension at both extremes, and an incredible "musicality" that I really enjoy. The speakers beautifully complement my tube amplifier and both my analog and digital front ends, and I can listen for hours and hours without any "listening fatigue."

My 1C's are about 6 feet apart, my chair is about 7 feet away, and the speakers are tilted as per Richard's explicit instructions. This is a great arrangement in my room, and the 1C's do a great job. I keep thinking of one day upgrading to the 2Ce Sig. II's, but for now, I love my 1C's. Happy Listening !!

If you've got the room, the 2's are a big step up from the 1's, but if your room is too small you'll be better off with the ones. IMHO, the 2's are the best deal in the Vandy lineup, and perhaps in all of audio.