Hi EastCoast,
Yes, the 9.25-inch height is the tallest point, at the front baffle. Try calling the Axiom toll-free number or email brent@axiomaudio.com . He will know the height at the rear of the VP-180.
One of the last double-blind listening tests I did before leaving Axiom was of the VP-180 vs. the M80. I ranked both speakers identically -- the 180 is a wonderfully good center channel, fully the equal of its tower sibling. It has a slightly different timbre, but overall matches beautifully, and it would be a shame for you not to integrate into your system.
Regards,
Alan Lofft
