[ROMDOC]

I have been using - happily - a pair of VR4's Gen III for the past few years and just went for the upgrade that Albert offers for those at $2500.
He described the result as being as close as one can get to VR5, with improved efficiency, openness, clarity and detail. Only the outside stays the same. On the inside, everything is new, including cabinet liners, crossovers and drivers.

My speakers just came back after a very few weeks of waiting and I could listen to them over the past weekend. Everything that Albert described was there, and then some. I drove them off a First Sound  MkIII preamp with Rogue Audio M180' upgraded monoblocks in triode mode, using various fronts and running all types of music, from voice and solo instruments to full symphonic orchestra, from jazz to classical.

Overall, the net effect was stunning. It felt as if my original speakers were working through a heavy screen. The closest comparison I can think of - in terms of the new clarity and detail - is the sound produced by Avantgarde Acoustic Duo's in a 75k system. I am a most satisfied customer and at least for the next few years, I will feel no need to go after a pair of VR5's.

To all of you still hesitant, if you are willing to pay for good sound only and forgo the looks and cost of expensive cabinets, Albert's mod of the VR4's GenIII will certainly be an extraordinarily satisfying experience. If anything, it will make you feel as if you are listening to a whole new and much better system altogether.

[es347]

Why am I not the least bit surprised?  Looks like you'll be hearing Christmas music like never before.  Enjoy doc.

[Charles Calkins]

ROMDOC:

  I Didn't know Albert had an upgrade program for your speakers or any of his speakers. I've a pair of them I bought new in 2004. You got me thinking that just maybe I'll get them upgraded. Hell of a lot cheaper than buying something new. One question. Do the upgrades involve both the upper and lower cabinets? Or just the lower?

                                                    Cheers
                                                    Charlie

[ROMDOC]

Apologies for the delayed answer.
The upgrade involves both upper and lower cabinets. Basically, everything inside is new. On the outside, the sock is new as well, it will likely look darker than the original one (dust, discoloration from light, etc are likely to explain the difference). Hope this helps. I am sure Albert will answer any other questions over the phone. It may take a day for him to call back, but he makes a point from talking directly to his customers.

[es347]

..but he makes a point from talking directly to his customers.  Boy does he!  Good guy for sure.

[ceedee]

We call this, reinventing the speaker.
Nice job Albert and Damon.

Have a nice time with them.

Feels like your old suit fits well again after you have lost a lot of weight.

Have a nice Xmas.

Cor

[fplanner2000]

Speaking of VSA upgrades, I'm pleased to report that the crossover mods done to my 7's 6 mos ago (by the Skiing Ninja at Albert's direction) have totally transformed my speakers.  They are now pretty much "world class" once again, IMHO, though those who were at my house during RMAF may or may not agree.     I would definitely do a VSA speaker mod if it fits within your budget, based on my experience.

And no, Albert isn't paying me to say this - quite the opposite, as he's not even aware of my post here.

Happy Holidays to ALL!!

[vgregory]

Apologies for the delayed answer.
The upgrade involves both upper and lower cabinets. Basically, everything inside is new. On the outside, the sock is new as well, it will likely look darker than the original one (dust, discoloration from light, etc are likely to explain the difference). Hope this helps. I am sure Albert will answer any other questions over the phone. It may take a day for him to call back, but he makes a point from talking directly to his customers.

Can you please be more specific on the upgrade? What type of drivers are being used, etc... I currently own VR4 GEN III HSE....This is interesting.