I received my speakers from Axiom and they look great. I went over every square inch and cannot find a single cosmetic flaw. Is it possible they did not have any blemished speakers and sent out new ones?

Zo, your report is fairly typical of our experiences. You may need a microscope to find the blemish. Now enjoy some beautiful music.

ditto

Their standards are VERY high for both A and B stock.

One of my 80's has a scratch which I've only seen once, (when the sun hit it at the right angle). I've forgot which 80 it was, and with multiple position changes, I doubt I'll see it again.

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Is it possible they did not have any blemished speakers and sent out new ones?

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I remeber hearing a long time ago if the wait time of the outlet was reached and no "b" stock was available that new "a" stock indeed did go out to fill the order. I don't think you will have anyone from Axiom confirming this rumour though.

Given that the web page says " the "wait time" below lists when you should expect delivery on the model of your choice. Click to pre-order and you're guaranteed the product of your choice!", there's a strong implication as I read it that you get your speaker within the time stated, whether or not it's a blem. Not directly stated, but thinking through the implications that's what I come up with.

Ah yes, Jim, but note that you can only "expect" delivery in the time specified, and that what's "guaranteed" is the model ordered, not the delivery date.

I ordered a M80/500 7.1 system from the outlet (except for the center - wait time was really long for the finish I wanted) and it showed up a full week sooner than the longest lead time. Each of the QS8's was packages a little differently. One had 2 of the grilles wrapped in plastic and not installed on the speaker, one had all 4 in plastic the others were already on. One had a couple of broken grille posts, and Axiom replaced the entire speaker even though I indicated it wasn't a problem to just swap the posts. The M80's had marks where the rubber feet would go and the parts kit was taped closed - so I guessed that these had been demo'd and returned. One of the M80 grilles had a VERY small dark smudge that you needed to be a foot away to see. The EP500 appeared to be NEW - there was still sawdust in the bottom threaded fittings. And obviously the VP150 was new. In looking at new vs. outlet, I really can't tell the difference. In unpacking the VP150 I put my own smudges on the grille which I think was dust from the box.

The difference in price paid for the second set of QS8's and allowed me to step up from 5.1 to 7.1. I would absolutely buy from the outlet again. If you think you can't wait for the lead time, order from the A line. If you can practice some delayed gratification, you will be nicely rewarded with a product that you, in all likelyhood, will not be able tell was B stock and save some money along the way or get more equipment for the same money.

Scott

Scott, just a quick comment on the thought that your speakers might have been returns. Alan and others from Axiom have made it very clear that the Outlet speakers are brand new. Returned speakers(apparently very few)are sold at greatly reduced prices to employees, family members, etc.

Your correct John, FO speakers are not "refurbished" or "returns" as clearly stated on that webpage. They are every bit as new and carry the same warranty. However, they may have a very small blemish or nick somewhere, but goodluck trying to find it.