Von Schweikert VR-4,Jr.

Abruce, Utilizing at least 25 lbs of lead is a must in this speaker.

You're welcome hear the VR-4jr at my place. They do not sound bloated. I'm utilizing 50 lbs in each and driving them with tube electronics.

I'm the other VSA dealer and in the N/W suburbs.

Abruce, I too have been to Decibel Audio. The high ceilings, front windows, and brick walls, and road noise make listening there a waste of time. I know that they allow in-home auditions. if you are in the city, I would give that a try. Otherwise, see if Audio Buff will lend you a pair.

Thanks for everyones help, I drove five hours to hear these, then I find out there's another dealer in town.
Von S only told me about Decibel Audio, darn another road trip to the windy city

Rob,Thanks for the comments...back to the break in disk and out of phase wiring! 140 hours to go!

P.S- correction on my last post. My speaker cables ar Mapleshade Golden Helix Shotguns
Thanks,
Rodney

Bloated is definitely the front end. If anything they become more fluid and less choppy sounding with time. My own VSA got enriched more resolved bass when lead shot was added but they were never "bloated". I think your salesperson was probably going overboard with the capabilities of the front end. Bloat is probably from from pushing a tube amp too hard and is just distortion by another name. They had plenty of slam properly powered.