"So my point is only that original OHM Walsh 4s from the 80's are not a valid reference point to compare when buying new today."
The only reason I emphasize this, is that many have only heard older Walshes (which had a pretty decent distribution network in B&M stores back in the 80s before OHM went direct sales only) however they all, including current line, share very similar aesthetics, especially the metal "cans" which enclose the actual CLS driver. The internals of the CLS driver can (which makes the sound) are what has undergone 3 levels of revision since, but there is often no way to know for sure what exact model/design/configuration might reside inside any particular "can".
Not to mention that John Strohbeen will readily modify the common base design as needed to meet individual needs/preferences (including commonly more omni A/V versus less omni 2 channel, and tonal modifications to the CLS Walsh driver configuration ) and I have no idea how anyone would know without performing major surgery on the "can" or being told by someone who happens to know for sure.
Not knowing for sure can be a hindrance mainly towards knowing exactly what on is buying used. Not a problem buying direct from OHM though. I'd expect you would get the standard 2 channel or A/V use current X000 series design, unless you request something else otherwise.
The only reason I emphasize this, is that many have only heard older Walshes (which had a pretty decent distribution network in B&M stores back in the 80s before OHM went direct sales only) however they all, including current line, share very similar aesthetics, especially the metal "cans" which enclose the actual CLS driver. The internals of the CLS driver can (which makes the sound) are what has undergone 3 levels of revision since, but there is often no way to know for sure what exact model/design/configuration might reside inside any particular "can".
Not to mention that John Strohbeen will readily modify the common base design as needed to meet individual needs/preferences (including commonly more omni A/V versus less omni 2 channel, and tonal modifications to the CLS Walsh driver configuration ) and I have no idea how anyone would know without performing major surgery on the "can" or being told by someone who happens to know for sure.
Not knowing for sure can be a hindrance mainly towards knowing exactly what on is buying used. Not a problem buying direct from OHM though. I'd expect you would get the standard 2 channel or A/V use current X000 series design, unless you request something else otherwise.