Ohm Walsh 2000s vs Vandersteen 2Ces

Rgs,

Again, as Mamboni also related, current OHM Walshes are 3 design revisions (and 30 years) removed from originals in the 1980s. Imaging is much improved (night and day difference) and can compete with the best modern floorstanders I have heard even in the equivalent sweet spots.

Small high quality monitors probably will outdo the modern OHMs and most modern floorstanders as well in regards to pinpoint imaging in smaller rooms. Haven't compared to Vandys specifically. They might still have a smaller advantage. I do not know for sure.

Some treatments on side walls along the lines Mamboni mentioned will probably only help further if needed in most cases.

So my point is only that original OHM Walsh 4s from the 80's are not a valid reference point to compare when buying new today.

My personal experience is limited to Vandersteen 1Cs, from which I upgraded to Ohm Walsh 2000s. All I can say is that I love my 2000s. They exhibit none of the issues of older Ohm Walsh's. They have very solid imaging, not at all diffuse, no veil that I can hear, loads of detail without over-hyping the transients, and clear, uncongested sound at all volume levels. I would characterize their presentation as warm, detailed, and extended, with complete freedom from etch, grain and glare, with very slightly attenuated treble.

I would recommend the following: Ohms come with a 120 day in-home trial. Find a Vandy dealer that will let you take the store demo pair of 2Ce Sig II's home for a weekend, and A/B the two. Of course, you'll have to purchase your electronics first, and break them in. Nothing beats hearing speakers in your room with your own gear and music, with no pressure to commit. Who knows? Maybe you won't like either speaker!

"So my point is only that original OHM Walsh 4s from the 80's are not a valid reference point to compare when buying new today."

The only reason I emphasize this, is that many have only heard older Walshes (which had a pretty decent distribution network in B&M stores back in the 80s before OHM went direct sales only) however they all, including current line, share very similar aesthetics, especially the metal "cans" which enclose the actual CLS driver. The internals of the CLS driver can (which makes the sound) are what has undergone 3 levels of revision since, but there is often no way to know for sure what exact model/design/configuration might reside inside any particular "can".

Not to mention that John Strohbeen will readily modify the common base design as needed to meet individual needs/preferences (including commonly more omni A/V versus less omni 2 channel, and tonal modifications to the CLS Walsh driver configuration ) and I have no idea how anyone would know without performing major surgery on the "can" or being told by someone who happens to know for sure.

Not knowing for sure can be a hindrance mainly towards knowing exactly what on is buying used. Not a problem buying direct from OHM though. I'd expect you would get the standard 2 channel or A/V use current X000 series design, unless you request something else otherwise.

Many prefer the original Ohms with true Walsh drivers over the new Ohms with different drivers.

I spent the last 2 days auditioning the Vandys at home.

Game over. Loved em even more at home. At this price point, a great speaker. Ordered a pair this morning.

Thanks for all the advice.