I"m not trying to start anything! honest I"m not!I absolutly LOVE my Axiom speakers!but just maybe you need higher end equipment to acheive better sound.I think in the old days there was less gadgets and better sound and now it's the other way around,more gadgets and less sound for the money.plus since Axiom speakers are so detailed maybe they not only unmask harsh recordings but also harsh sounding equipment.but I did notice an increase in bass with the amp upgrade.sorry John but you can't deny me my own personal observations.by the way,do you work for Axiom?