I bought Axioms without hearing them. I based my purchase on the reviews I read, their design philosophy, the return policy, the look of the speakers, and the functionality of the website. Who knows what company I would have supported if I'd done serious and exhaustive auditioning, but I haven't regretted continuing to round out my systems with Axiom speakers. I'm sure I'll still try another brand for a 2-channel music setup, just because, but I haven't been dissatisfied with what I've purchased at all.