I was looking at the Ascend's before I went with the M22s. I think this was pre-340SE. I was looking at the 170s or the M22s. At that time the FO price was almost identical with the Ascend price. When it came down to choosing, the Ascend's were just too homely. I've read on other message boards that the Ascends are much better speakers than the Axioms, I guess everyone has an opinion. I couldn't say one way or another, since I've never heard an Ascend. I know I like the looks of the M22s better.