imo they seem pretty equal, probably cost around the same if im not mistaken.. the qs-8's would definatly be an upgrade as they are the best surround speaker ive ever heard, you could just buy the axioms and decide for yourself, if ur not happy just take advantage of the 30day return policy and send em back

M60, VP180, QS-8's
Marantz SR6005
Behringer EP4000
Stereo Integrity Mag 15"
Samsung HLS5087 DLP