from_michigan, welcome to the forum!
1. Not unless there is someone in your neck of the woods that has an Axiom setup and is willing to let you come over and listen. Most Axiom owners are more than willing to show them off so that would not be a problem. Asside from that, Axiom offers the 30 day trial. If you don't like, just return them. The only cost will be the return shipping.
2. I replaced my sony HTIB system with Axiom's Epic 80 and Denon's 3910 and 3805. By far the most difficult thing was learning all the new features. The actual setup was not that difficult. But be warned, it's quite tempting to "play" with your new system...
3. While I can't help you here, I believe many Axiom owners with these receivers will be offering there advice. Both look to be great choices. Good luck!
