From the brand names you mentioned, I think you'll find people here on the boards will resoundingly recommend Axiom over them, especially if they're coming in at the same price. Yes, the speakers are worth purchasing. It would help to know which exact Axiom speakers you're looking at purchasing, too.
I like the detail, linearity, and full range of sound I get from them. They're my first "audiophile" loudspeakers, and I think I did pretty good by getting them. I'm still interested in what else is out there, but I can say I'm very pleased with Axiom. Their quality and customer service seem to be outstanding, especially at their price point.
Now I'll let the people with much more knowledge fill you in on enclosure materials and perhaps specific comparisons between Axiom's sound versus the brands you mentioned.
