More kudos to the guys at Saturday Audio - the speakers were over-the-top well packed, almost to the point of overkill.
Save for some very minor slackening of the grill cloth and some signs of being moved on the bases they are in perfect condition. Not even a hair line scratch on the cabinets. Can't find a flaw. Amazing good condition.
First impression? Believe it or not I find them to be slightly more emphatic with the low mids and bass, the highs are excellent.
Heck, they're Thiels.
My reference tunes were all there - I even listened at a slightly higher volume than I normally do and I felt the air move with the bass like I hadn't with the 3.5's. I also find the bass a little "tighter" than the 3.5's, but "real" and uncoloured, as were the 3.5's.
I have no doubts that the Neo will be capable of driving them without stressing since my listening level is very conservative. All in all thus far I would offer that these certainly have a more sonic presence than the 3.5's, the sound seems to find a space about 2-3 feet in front of them.
$1099 plus shipping of $350 - maybe my best purchase yet new or used.
More to follow with extended play over the forthcoming holiday weekend!