Sorry, Mark, the thread title was just Van on my screen. Have you heard these to be interested in them first? The specs read 86db response and 160w amp recommended. Those values seem a little low(power) for a 10",8" setup, but the numbers don't tell the story.
If you heard them, what was the amp then?
I kinda count the Rotel and outlaw about the same, with max power not meaning too much, except that the Steens are 86 db, and the lower value calls for a bigger amp for SPL. Both of your power choices will do well with the Steens rated 4ohm min impedence.
I had a really nice long audition with a very simple NAD C352 (?) integrated amp and a Rega CD player behind all the speakers I tested.
(I purposely asked for something not too exotic or expensive.)
The Vandys sounded (to my ears) much better than the Gallo Ref 3.1, the Sonus Faber Concertos, and the Maggie 1.6's (which probably need a lot more juice to come alive).
If you like a more analytical sound, they might be bettered by Harbeths or Merlins. But for my ears, I loved the Vandy 2's. And its my ears that matter here.
Nuck. Do you think its safer to buy Rotel, a much larger and more established brand? Or should I trust the Outlaw, for a bit less money?
Mark, a quick price check (barrets) said 1300 for the rotel, 900 for outlaw, that seems quite a bit. The list of features is long with both. Similar power. The Rotel would be purchased at a dealer? Dealer support is always a good thing. Outlaw is net sale only, but they are very supportive. I've called there with questions and got great help.
I can't imagine a closer pair,except pricing. Does appearance matter to you? If so the outlaw would win me over.
You're talkin' a lot of sense about the big price difference.
Plus, I like the 30 day trial thing.
Plus, the pre section looks to be pretty good, so I can always strap it to a beefier amp, right?
In terms of appearance, I actually am sort of partial to the silver and black look of the Rotel 10 series stuff as well as the layout and symmetry of the buttons.