When I was sub shopping, I was close to pulling the trigger on an Axiom sub, but I ended up with the HSU VTF3 since the company ran a half price shipping promotion during Xmas season 2005. I was looking for something that was better than my JBL PB12, which had become toast, for less than $1K. I found that, and I am happy with the product I purchased so far. I'm sure the Axiom EP 500 looks nicer, though. My black HSU ain't pretty by any stretch of the imagination, but since it is somewhat hidden from view that doesn't bother me.