Two days ago I stumbled accross AV123 in my search for new speakers and today I was going to order the 850's. I just spent the last two hours reading about all the issues and must ask what is probably a very stupied question:
Should I keep looking?
I've been a very vocal critic of the organization from the point of ethics as well as quality issues. However, it's not my intent to dissuade you from buying so much as informing you or anyone of the issues. It's up to you to make the informed decision on what you want to do. So, here we go.
The company has a myriad of issues. Depending where in this very long thread you've read, you may've gotten a good idea of what they are. In terms of their current speaker lineup, which isn't terribly broad anymore, the Rockets represent what is probably their best current offering in terms of quality and reliability. However, there have been a few issues which may or may not apply to what you buy but they have been reported.
Veneer is generally decent enough but some have noted imperfections that are most easily discerned by either looking up close or by running one's hand across the wood.
They seem to have switched to somewhat less expensive binding posts and I've read where a user found they were loose. Nothing you can't take care of.
The drivers appear competent but a few have noted 'rings' appearing in the middle. This is a sporadic defect but VA321 has made good on every report that I know of. It's something you'll have to change but nothing difficult.
Now, if you're looking to put together a complete HT system, you'll find that they're currently out of stock on their center channel. Based upon VA321's track record, I'd only buy the 850's for a 2 channel setup. That's because you cannot tell when and more importantly if they'll ever come back in stock.
You should confirm by email or phone, preferably both, that what you're buying is A-stock and is in stock along with a shipment date. Keep close track of that and make sure your card is not charged until the speaker(s) ship.
There are of course alternatives which may prove equally attractive. For example there are offering from TheAudioInsider that also sells some B-stock through another place (Oz something or other). They are quite reputable with negligible product issues and a reasonable following. I've heard that Jon Lane is a pleasant enough and competent enough person to talk with. The same holds true for offerings from Ascend Acoustics but they don't make a floor stander that I know of. This site also has a store that sells a competent budget line by EMP as well as others. Pricing is quite good. There are of course others in the Internet Direct area.
Now AV123 does have a warranty. The question given their issues, is will they be around a year or two from now to honor it?
Best of luck to you.
