Vandersteen 2CE Vs. Von Schweikert VR-2100

My first choice would be the Vandersteen. I've tried many different brands, and for me, they are the best. The VS's are excellent as well. I think they are both very good choices. You will probably find that the Vandersteen is a more detailed and revealing speaker. The balance is excellent, though. I find them to be the most neutral and transparent speakers I've heard. The VS is different. They're a little more forgiving, but excellent as well. Before you commit to anything, I would strongly urge you to demo the speakers if you can. I haven't heard the Ohm so I can't comment on it.

Thanks Zd542. I found a nearby pair of Vandy 2CE Sigs, so hopefully I will be able to listen. From the great support from fellow agoners I am comfortable with that choice.

I'd be sure to listen to Vandys with rock. I think that this description from another forum captures Vandy 2CEs well (I have only head them briefly in less than ideal settings):

"Vandy's are the epitome of "laid back." I've found through the years that few brands foster as much dissention as Vandersteen. They are a true "love-it" or "hate-it" proposition. I fall into the latter, but Richard's fans are legion and swear by them so he must be doing something right. The bottom line is you're going to have to listen to them and decide for yourself. Personally, I would think the rolled off extremes of the 2ce would soften the impact of good rock music, but at least it won't be fatiguing."

If possible give a listen with that in mind. May not pair particularly well with your musical tastes.

If you play your music loud do not buy Vandersteens. They will not hold up.

I should have addressed this in my first response. It has to do with Roscoeiii's comments above. I have absolutely no idea how anyone could come up with that description. I'm not trying to be rude or find fault but I don't know anyone that knows Vandersteen speakers that would share such an opinion. I personally think that its a rumour that someone started and everyone else just ran with it for some reason. To get them to sound like that you would have a hard time if you tried to do it on purpose. If anything, its just the opposite. Actually, they are transparent and neutral to a fault. Its entirely possible you may find them too revealing and detailed. There's a reason these speakers get paired with Ayre so often (myself included). Ayre is considered to be capable of resolution that very few other brands can come close to. To get the most out of them, the last speaker you would want to use is something that fits the above description.

Again, I'm not looking to offend anyone. Roscoeiii does state that he heard them briefly in less than ideal settings. I have to believe, that is the basis for his response. Otherwise, though, I would encourage a demo before you buy. No matter what I think, you still need to see if you like them yourself. Also, there are detailed setup instructions in the manual. You have to follow them for best results. Its not difficult, but it may take an hour or more to get them positioned properly and the back tilt set.