Wilson better than Thiels?

Sbank and the others are right. UNLESS YOU HEAR A BIG IMPROVEMENT never change. There are very few systems that cannot be improved 10% to 50% by careful tuning. Most people change their systems before they have gotten the most out of them. Spend the money [probably a lot less] on improving what you have and don't change until you have recognized a flaw in your system that you cannot live with. AND FOR HEAVENS SAKE DON'T CHOOSE YOUR EQUIPMENT BY ASKING OTHER PEOPLE.

Brf is exactly right. I have a pair of Thiels and I love the sound. I had a buddy in the 80's and 90's that had the 2 2's and they sounded great in his home. I also had a buddy in the 90's that had the Wilson Watt/Puppies and his system blew me away. But whenever I heard the Thiels or the Wilsons in stores they were not nearly as impressive. In stores, Thiels always sounded harsh and the Wilsons sounded flat. So over the years I wasn't sure which way to go until I finally took the plunge and bought the Thiels. They didn't sound so great though until I changed amps, cables, source equipment, room, etc. I guess that is what makes this hobby so special.

So would I prefer the Wilson's over the Thiels? If money was not an issue, sure. But the difference is not enough to push me over the edge. I also know that everything in front of either of these speakers matters too.

Thiels don't sound harsh, they do reveal harsh sounding upstream equipment.

I've heard both the Thiels and Wilsons sound ear bleeding harsh and bright. i have heard the Thiels sound wonderful, and the Wilsons sound good. In equal price range i like the Thiels. Which Thiels do you own, and what Wilsons are you thinking about?

The folks who say that Thiels sound harsh are sadly mistaken (my opinion). I myself have been pondering whether to keep the Thiel 2.3's which I have enjoyed for the past six years or to upgrade to the Sophias. The Sophias have a better extended lower range are a little better in overall detail, dynamics and soundstage (wider & deeper). However, unless you have good front end components, can sound a tad forward. The Thiels on the other hand give the Wilsons a real good run for their money. The cabinets aren't as quiet as the Wilsons and could be a little better in sound stage depth. However, match it with some good tubes and get them placed properly in your room and boy do they sound fantastic. If you love acoustic music and vocals and want to hear subtle changes/differences in any equipment, the Thiels will clearly reveal them. Contrary to one of the above posts, there is absolutely NO lack in emotional conveyance of the music. Every time I hear Alison Krauss, Joni Michell or Mary Chapin Carpenter though them, I tend to close my eyes and smile. Although I love the Sophias, every time I compare them to the Thiels, I can't seem to justify spending 3 times more for them. However, being the nut I am will eventually get them. With the Thiels you get a lot for your money. Both are fantastic speakers designed by two of the best engineers. For now, my heart says Wilsons, but my wallet says Thiels and I know that I will be extremely happy with either.