Vandersteen 3A Sig vs. Meadowlark Osprey

Bigtee: The majority of us rely at least a little on other people's opinions -- some of those in the magazines and some of those we read here. You can tell a lot about someone's listening preferences by looking at their system and their points of reference.

Ultimately, I trust my own ears, but before I bother to drive 200 miles to hear a pair of Ospreys, I just wanted to hear what other people had to say about them. The fact you think they sound pretty much like previous Meadowlarks is valuable information to me. Thanks.

I find this thread interesting as Meadowlark only shipped their first pair of Ospreys 3 days ago to a dealer in Atlanta and they should arrive today 11.27. If anyone has heard them, then they clearly are not burned in yet. As for their sound, you may find similarities as they are still voiced by Pat McGinty, but the new technology, new drivers and new cabinet designs means they will sound different. Just listen to Swift and Swallow, which are out. They are different then either Verio or Kestrel.

You will find a difference. If there was none, then why would Pat McGinty go to the expense of introducing an entire new line of speakers?

I am not criticizing anyone, just commenting on the facts that I know. Also, I am not affiliated with Meadowlark.

My local dealer mentioned he doesn't move the model 3's at all, for the 2sigs with a Vandy Sub is superior for half the cost, after hearing the 2 in the showroom noone buys the 3's!

Follow up on Ospreys: After talking with Pat, his opinion, and one that will be confirmed in a forthcoming review, is that Osprey out performs Shearwater in almost every aspect. More dynamic. More bass extension. More believable. However, it is a bit larger. Ron, I hope this feedback helps. If you need more input, I suggest that you call Pat. Cheers!

Cellorover, If this is true - the Osprey being better head and shoulders over the Shearwater, it kind of seems like perhaps the Shearwater is 'done' i.e. perhaps it will be discontinued. Who will buy it if the same price Osprey is significantly better?

As far as some of the comments above that the Meadowlarks are missing that certain something... I disagree. Any one of their speakers that I have heard from Kestrals to Blue Herons easily compare to same cost competitors and often trounce them thoroughly. Ron, I would suggest you still keep the Ospreys as a potential candidate until you give them a good audition. I am also in need of speakers and am eagerly awaiting my dealer getting these in. Should be interesting.