Hi,
as already mentioned here, the 200 W EVM 12 L is a excellent speaker.
But if one owns a combo version like me ( I have a MK IV combo with the Black Shadow EVM 12 L ), for some sounds and styles may be the EV produces a somehow too tight , focused sound, especially with a Thiele cab if used alone. Don't understand me wrong, I own a pair of Thiele cabs with the OEM EVM, also a 1x12 open back with the Black Shadow EV, but when I use the amp in combination with a 1x12 open back Ext. cab loaded with my V30 or also the MC 90 I get get a much more 3- dimensional, warm and fully sound, at least for my personal taste .
And yes the Altec 417 H or 417 H Series II sounds similar as the EV, but a little smoother. IMO, with both speakers, the EV and the Altec and a Mesa Mark Series amp, one can get the Santana tone.
BTW, I don't like the todays Santana tone too much. Way too dark in comparison with the tone of the early Santana.