New 1c's or used 2ci's

I belive that the Vandersteen 2 series is not only the best value in the Vandersteen line, but, amongst the best values in all of audio. I also think that they can be quite room fussy. Make sure you have enough space to properly place.

The 2cis. Will improve as you upgrade electronics and can support a pretty wide range of high end upstream gear.

I have owned both the 2c and 2ce. I have a friend that owned the 2ci. I am also familiar with the 1b and 1c. Which is better will depend somewhat on your room size and associated equipment. The 1c is easier to drive, has a slightly warmer tonal balance and will work well in a small to medium sized room. The 2ci will be much more demanding of room placement and associated gear in order to sound its best. The 1c can be driven by a 25 watt integrated amp or even a good HT receiver. I would not use anything less than a fairly high quality separate pre-amp and amplifier with the 2ci, and they will sound their best with tubes somewhere in the signal chain. While the 1c's will also sound great with tubes, I have heard them sound ok with good ss gear. When properly driven and set up, the 2ci will have deeper bass, more midrange detail and a bigger soundstage compared to the 1c. Both are very good speakers and value leaders in their respective classes.

Both are good choices...slight edge to the model 2s...but you have to factor in shipping costs for going used(unless you can find a local pair)...as well as the possibility of shipping damage (remote but always a concern)...in this case...although the 2 is clearly a better speaker...I would opt for a new pair of 1cs...as always...ask your dealer about demos...you may luck out...