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So I was recently robbed, in which my M60's, VP100, M2 (only 1 ), and HSU VTF-3 was taken. Of course a lot more was taken but we'll keep this to the speakers!

So now I'm looking at replacing all this stuff. I'm on the fence though on what I should do. Go with the M60 again, QS4 in the rear, and a VP150 for center. Or drop down to M22's. Take the savings and go 7.1 with 4x QS4s, and VP150. I'm just worried I'll be disappointed with the M22s compared to my M60s, though I've read there very similar when run with a good sub.

Then for the sub I'm kinda screwed. I was absolutely in love with my VTF-3 and want a HSU again without a doubt. Unfortunately they've ended dealers so I can't get it locally anymore. Shipping is now very expensive for HSU to Canada. I know Axiom makes great subs, anyone have experience comparing to a VTF-3?

First: damn! for the robbery. Always a major, major bummer.

My only comment would be that, of all the changes I have done last year (everything was changed one piece at a time), the lowest "return on investment" was going from 5.1 to 7.1. If money is no object (like in my case), then it does improve a bit over 5.1; but I would not sacrifice (compromise) on any other piece just to go 7.1.

Sorry to hear about the robbery.

On the M60 vs M22, when I did a direct a/b comparison of the M60 vs M22 + sub, I noticed very little difference besides the better bass extension you get with a sub. I understand that there is a difference once you put both in a larger room. I did my listening in a 20x12x8 foot room.

First off, I'm very sorry for your loss.

I own the Outlaw LFM-1 EX sub and I love it. I was considering the VTF-3, but went with the Outlaw because it was cheaper and it has a down firing woofer, which works well with my little one and small dogs. Both subs are designed by Dr. Hsu. You might want to check it out at Outlaw Audio . The LFM-1 EX retails for $599 (not including shipping) and is available only through Outlaw's website. Even with shipping, the LFM-1 EX was cheaper than the VTF-3. Good luck.

Thanks for the info guys. This should help me out. Outlaw is looking like a decent alternative, thanks for that.

I can relate, sort of, I recently had my cell phone stolen and then subsequent fraudulent charges to my credit card, not sure how they relate but it all happened within a week of each other.

James have you considered getting the EP350V3, it is a very strong sub for the money. Also the SVS PB12-NSD is a great sub in the $500-$1000 sub category. The SVS can be bought from Sonicboom Audio for those of us in Canada. I have heard the STF3 and I would say both, the AXiom and SVS, are near or on par with the STF3, but I am just going by memory as the STF was heard in different listening sessions as was the PB12 and the EP350.

I would say the M22/sub has a certain amount of exacting detail the M60's do not, however I would say the M22/sub offers up a more dry sound and the M60s have a certain warmth to their sound, I suspect this is from a less forward presentation on the M60s. The upper mids and highs are more pronounced on the M22s, IMO.

Interesting view Jason, thanks. I was just on the sonicboom site looking at the SVS stuff. Seems electronicsforless.ca is affiliated and they have some old stock on VTF-3 subs. It's a very good deal so I may just jump on that in the end. Looks like I'll save quite a bit going with the M22s over the M60s as well. At least with Axiom I know I can return the M22s for the M60s if need be. Were pretty luck to have that option with Axiom!

Sorry to hear about your misfortune, the M22's set-up with a good sub may surprise you.

As you say try the M22s, they are a very surprising speaker for the money, I love mine, if you find they don't quite do it for you then you get that free return for the upgrade so no money lost. Have you thought about going with the M80s? They are right in between the M60s warmth and the precision of the M22s, best of both worlds, IMO, although the M82(M60/M22 combo) had a very special sound to it that I really liked but due to kids in the area I opted for the one piece M80.

I suppose I could consider the M80s if the M22s don't work out. All depends on the insurance settlement and what not. I'm for sure going up a class on the receiver and 2" on the TV so that might eat into the budget a little!