Hi SirQuack and all,
I saw the two samples side by side up at Axiom's plant this past summer, and there was a difference, albeit fairly subtle. It also depends on the color temperature of the light you view them in. In the board room, the lights are flourescent plus daylight from a window; in the listening room, they're incandescent and much warmer in color temp, so finishes look different in there.
I'm not much help on this one. I only have some older Axioms in the original black oak finish.
I think the best idea is to order a sample of each finish and view them in the light of the room where the speakers will be used if you're concerned about the differences.
Regards,
Alan
