Rowland, This is why speaker decisions are so based on individual preferences. I don't find Vandersteen's recessed in the highs just as you don't hear the slight box sound of Dunlavy's . They are all good speakers deserving of their reputations.
I think the Theil's are slightly tilted up in the highs which would cause a slightly recessed midrange in comparison which you have noticed.
The point is, all are a trade off of some sort.
As you stated and as I mentioned earlier, they are 1st order designs. I like these because they don't throw the sound at you, they let you listen. I judge speakers by their capability to disappear in the room. 1st order speakers, to me, do this extremely well.
When I listen to the Vandersteen's in my room, I don't hear speakers---I hear the performers, soundstage, etc. They disappear completely leaving an open window to veiw the performance(as long as that recording allows it)
Best to you in your search and may the audio Gods smile on you!
I think the Theil's are slightly tilted up in the highs which would cause a slightly recessed midrange in comparison which you have noticed.
The point is, all are a trade off of some sort.
As you stated and as I mentioned earlier, they are 1st order designs. I like these because they don't throw the sound at you, they let you listen. I judge speakers by their capability to disappear in the room. 1st order speakers, to me, do this extremely well.
When I listen to the Vandersteen's in my room, I don't hear speakers---I hear the performers, soundstage, etc. They disappear completely leaving an open window to veiw the performance(as long as that recording allows it)
Best to you in your search and may the audio Gods smile on you!