I am pretty much decided on an M60/VP150/QS8/M2 7.1 setup being driven by my Denon 3803 with a VTF3 Mk2 sub. I have also been strongly considering the Rocket RS750/RSC200/RSS300 setup, but am put off by the price and finishes. Just to put my mind at rest has anyone auditioned both? Do the Axioms still stand out when compared to the Rockets? Are the Rockets in any way worth the extra money? I wish I could make up my mind, I plan to order this week.

Thanks for any insight.

O.K. I found an old thread on this forum that describes the sound differences. I definitely think I will prefer the 'open, detailed' sound of the Axioms over the 'laid back' Rocket sound. I am heading over to the online store now to order. I will post a review when they arrive.

I think I posted on that earlier thread, but let me just say again, I had both speakers in my house (R250s, I think, and the M22ti), and Axioms won by a mile. I know some people hate the look of the rockets, but that was their best feature in my mind. The rockets seem to go lower than Axioms, but to me, they sounded congested (think someone with bronchitis), not just laid back. And whether you believe in break in or not, I had both for the full evaluation period and broke them in, just in case.

The Axioms have been a sheer joy, and you've already read their virtues extolled. So I'll just say that I agree with all of the wonderful things you've already read about the clarity and accuracy of the Axioms.

Rich

The difference between the two speakers isn't slight. I really hated the Rocket sound, others like it. They cannot sound any more different then Axioms. If you like open, airy, and detailed, the Rockets are NOT for you.

Good luck.