Vandersteen 1C: suggestion on placement and amp


Recently purchased a pair of Vandersteen 1C speakers with "riser" stands and I am surprised, if not stunned, as to how good this speaker can sound. Nevertheless, the overall sound is a bit aggressive, and high frequencies at times sound harsh and pinched at the very top end. I am using a Musical Fidelity X-150 integrated amp which is 80RMS. Speaker cable is Analysis PLus Oval 12. I am currently only using a CD player which is the original Sonographe. The interconnect between the CD and amp is an Audio Magic Sorcerer II. The room is 12X13 and currently the speakers are positioned on either side of the a large direct view TV which is placed in the one of the room corners. I am considering moving the TV and speakers to long wall of the room to see if that improves the overall balance of sound and imaging (which is good).I realize this speaker is under $800 so it will have inherent limitations, that is, lacks smoothness on the top end and some control of the bass. Therefore, I welcome any suggestions on how to improve on its basic performance which is often amazing for the price.
sunnyjim
I have had good results in my second system driving Vandersteen 1b's with a Music Reference RM10 (I bought the very first MkII) the rest of the system is an Arcam cd73 and PSS passive preamp w/AQ cables. Room is approx 14' x 17', speakers on the 14' wall and other than a little lack of transparency I'm pretty happy with the sound.

On a side note, I still use the original Sonographe cd player in my main system and it's not something I'm dying to replace although I mostly listen to vinyl there. HTH.

Wes
I have a pair hooked up to a McIntosh Mac 1500 tube receiver. I have none of the problems you have. Top end is great, no grain, extended, etc.

Of course I have only 16 guage lamp cord hooked up to it.
A 10 buck old Pioneer CD player with *???* brand interconnects run the signal to the Mac.

*???* = those interconnects that come "free" with cheap electronics. Actually work very well!

Sorry you have a problem, but I don't think it's the speakers, unless the tweeters are partially blown.

Good Luck.