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Ohm Walsh Microtall or Vandersteen 1C

So having gone to my local audio store yesterday and auditioning the Vandersteen 1C and the PSB Image T6, the PSB model is out. I was leaning heavily towards going back next week to buy the 1C, but I started down a path of reading about the Microtalls, and I think I have to call them tomorrow and order a pair.

I'll be running with just a Peachtree Nova, using a Macbook Pro (optical out), Ps3/Xbox 360, and turntable as sources. They'll be used to play music as well as for 2 channel HT.

I really enjoyed the 1C sound, which had warmth and clarity. The PSBs felt a little too neutral and cold to me. I think while I imagine that I want a real analytic, detailed sound to let me hear every little note and drum hit, in reality I want a speaker that lets me get lost in the music and just "live" while I have music on. I can use headphones for the analytic listening :)

Will the Microtalls work for watching video, in the sense that dialogue will still sound as if it's coming from the center? I know I could always add the center channel and a sub later to help out with HT, but that's not in the budget now.

What will I lose with the Microtalls vs. the Vandersteens? I was also wondering if I wouldn't be better off waiting until I could afford the 2ce Sig II (or finding some new) and going with the Ohm for now while I'm at a $1000 budget.

Finally, do I pay return shipping on the Ohms if I don't like them? What is that cost? Thanks!
rbf1138
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,172 posts
 
I can only speak for the OHMs but I think they are hard to beat for prog/rock/metal, which constitutes a major portion of my listening as well, especially with the right amp. That kind of music is perhaps the biggest reason I am where I am today.

They will hold their own or better against most any competitor I have heard with all the rest. A lot comes down in the end to personal preferences.
bondmanp
1,808 posts
 
Heywaj10 - Ohm Walsh + Porcupine Tree = Sonic Heaven!!!!
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,172 posts
 
"Ohm Walsh + Porcupine Tree = Sonic Heaven"

Amen.

If you have OHM Walshes and not the case, keep working at it until it happens.

PT's FOABP was one of hardest of my favorite CDs to really get done to the max. Finally after the right amp, tweaks, etc., sonic heaven.

Very dark but insightful and great sounding concept album is FOABP.
rbf1138 OP
64 posts
 
I went with the Microtalls, btw! I'm moving this Sunday and will finally get them all setup with all of my gear. I haven't had any time to listen to them for more than 20 minutes until now. They can begin breaking in for real!
mapman's avatar
mapman
22,172 posts
 
The thing with prog rock is that there is often a lot going on in the recording to hear at any particular time, like large ensemble classical or big band. A large deep soundstage enables one too discern more details, like a big screen 3-d hd tv or movie screen in that things are less cluttered. Of course all the other stuff matters as well. The ohms can do it all very well.
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