Well it's a funny thing that you talked about the comparaison between the Axiom and the B&W. I have side by side compare the M3 vs the CM5. Axiom is a great sounding speaker no doubt but the CM5 is actually a way better bookshelf in every area. Now i smile everytime i see people saying that this M3 is as good as any bookshelf out there. Are you considering spending the extra money to get a better sounds/looking. You guys are the only one to know.

I had the pleasure to compare those following model.

Axiom M3 V2
Focal 806V
Usher X-718
Von Schweikert VR-1
B&W CM5

As you can see the Axiom is the less expensive bookshelf and by far and yes, it related his performance in the lot. Always depend on what Axiom want. A very low cost product (best bang for the buck products) Or, upgrade thier sound/looking for a cost of course.

But i do thrust Ian and Axiom. The have thier signature of thier own.

I don't know if I would say the B&W is a WAY better speaker than the M3 without adding "in my opinion".

An M3 (slightly) bested a B&W in blind listening tests at the Axiom get together last year.

It could be argued that the majority of listeners, being Axiom owners, have a preference for that particular sound, but I disagree with the B&Ws being "way" better.

Indeed Marc you are right, in my opinion...
No matter the test people do i think there's always lot of factor to consider. Room, equipment, etc.
Anyway maybe you found the blind test at Axiom showed you that b&w isn't that "superior" as Axiom. But i found in my test a real difference. Being said, Axiom M3 still a great bookshelf for the value.

a little food for thought here:
http://www.gizmag.com/cabasse-la-sphere-4-way-point-source-speakers/12539/

Actually, the M2's cost $316 per pair, not each. So, a comparison should be considered for a $700-ish cost difference.

yeah, i guess your right Spoiler... I think i got side tracked with the unit costs of B&W's and didn't think about axiom listing their speakers by the pair..

To say that I'm excited about a professional studio monitor from Axiom is an understatement!

My suggestion is to keep it simple.

Nearfield as opposed to midfield. 6.5 woofer. Powered/bi-amped (possibly D amplification?) and flat and accurate.

If Axiom could bring out a studio monitor in the $1200.00/$1400.00 (pair) range that has the same value/performance as their home audio speakers, you could shake up the industry big time.