I am going through the same process you are, with about the same budget. I have heard the VR4JR several times in different systems. I have been very impressed each time. I heard the VR4 SR once, at the HE 2005 show in NYC. I was very impressed. In my opinion it was a little more detailed, slightly better imaging than the VR4JR. The big difference for me was bass, the SR does go lower, so right now it is at the top of my list. I am waiting for my dealer to receive his pair so I can do some more critical listening. I really liked the VR4 JR, the bass goes fairly low, and is very tight and fast which I like. In my opinion you just get a little more with the VR4 SR. I know the SR is alot more money, but I have not yet heard anything for the price that I like better.
On your list I heard the JM Lab 946. I also audition components with my wife who has a decent ear. We both felt even the VR4 JR was better than the JM Lab 946, at least to our ears. The JM Lab, in the system and room where we heard them, were less detailed, did not have great imaging, and the soundstage was not great. They sounded kind of laid back. We did not care for them, although I know alot of people do.
I know they are more money, but I plan to compare the VR4 SR with the Green Mountain Audio Continuum 3. I think my decision will be between these two speakers.
Let your own ears decide. In my opinion there is alot of undeserved hype in this hobby. The Green Mountains have a decent following because of their time and phase alignment. I will let my ears decide.
Let us know what happens. I think I can listen to the Green Mountains next weekend.
On your list I heard the JM Lab 946. I also audition components with my wife who has a decent ear. We both felt even the VR4 JR was better than the JM Lab 946, at least to our ears. The JM Lab, in the system and room where we heard them, were less detailed, did not have great imaging, and the soundstage was not great. They sounded kind of laid back. We did not care for them, although I know alot of people do.
I know they are more money, but I plan to compare the VR4 SR with the Green Mountain Audio Continuum 3. I think my decision will be between these two speakers.
Let your own ears decide. In my opinion there is alot of undeserved hype in this hobby. The Green Mountains have a decent following because of their time and phase alignment. I will let my ears decide.
Let us know what happens. I think I can listen to the Green Mountains next weekend.