Gershman Black Swans

Fplanner2000,
I heard them at RMAF2007 in the Clayton room. The front-end was a 581, the preamp was a VAC (don't recall the model) & the power amps were Clayton M200 monos. I also have forgotten the cable brand.
The sound was very nice. I was quite impressed w/ how much the overall sonics involved me.
Mrs. Gershman was there herself giving the demo (she was a nice hostess).
I'm afraid that my limited experience was quite opposite to Kennyt's!

I heard them at HE 2007 in NYC. I remember being impressed to the point that I told the designer that it was the first time I really appreciated his speakers, even though I'd heard them at previous years' shows. The front end was all Classe, IIRC. My gut tells me they are great speakers, but finicky as to associated gear and acoustic environment.

I think they sound great.

But at $30K the competition is great as well.

Thanks all for the responses. So far it sounds like they should probably be on my short list to listen to if/when I make a speaker change. If only I could learn to just leave well enough alone.....

I thought they sounded great when I heard them. Audiofeil is right though, the competition is steep at that dollar point...no doubt that Gershman are great people.

Good Luck and let us know what you get.