Axiom Home Page Forums General Discussion Stereo M22ti vs B&W 602

OK I have been searching for speakers for the last month. Looking for an effective bookshelf that won't drive me to the poorhouse. I like the B&W 602's. I just like the way the speakers sounds. Nice and open, great revealing clarity. However after reading all the reviews on the Axiom line I have to question whether to spend the money on the 602's. I am thinking of picking up the M22ti's. Based on the cabinet size they would be comparable to the B&W. My question is should I expect the same type of bass response from the Axiom. The B&W 602 has a 6.5" driver. the M22ti has 2, 5 1/4 drivers. It is tough buying something unheard. Some people have taken the leap and have been happy. My question is do I spend the Money or take a leap of faith?

I have the M22, and also looked at the BW 602. I liked the 602, but the build quality is not as good as the M22, and the sound quality is "tubby" compared to the M22. The M22 is a powerhouse of a speaker, and I am EXTREMELY happy with it. I am happy that I didn't lay out $600 on a lesser quality product. BW is good, but I don't believe that it is as smooth and realistic sounding as the M22. Yes, it is hard to make a decision when buying "ear unheard", but read the reviews on all Axioms products seem to contain a pattern of words- "smooth, clarity, transparent, detailed" -all pop up in many of the reviews; Reviews that have been done with wildly varying types and standards of equipment. I don't work for Axiom, but I am more than happy to support a company that is interested in such a high price/perfomance ratio- it is rather refreshing in my opinion. If you do buy the M22, I seriously doubt that you will ever think "maybe I paid to much".

Thanks for the response. That is why I am thinking of making the purchase. I think that with a company like axiom they are making a product that is effective and good quality without "sticking it" to the consumer.

Quick follow up here; the M22 review roughs are done, and the SoundStage! network is just measuring up the M22 at the National Research Center before launching the review. Something to watch for! www.soundstage.com

You will also have a satisfaction guarantee if (for whatever reason) you do not like the M22's. I think that would be a good reason to try them first.

I faced a similar situation, and decided to take the plunge. I am 100% satisfied, although I haven't listened to the B&W's and can provide any comparison feedback.

I must sound like a shill the way I gush about my speakers, but I really am that happy about them. Anyone in Southern California can contact me if they would like to audition them-