Scuffernoose, speaker preference is completely subjective. Unfortunately, those who are insecure about their preference find in necessary to "run down," trash," criticize" other brands in order to validate their purchase of the brand they prefer. It's the old "I can't be right unless you are wrong." trap. The problem is, there is no "right" or "wrong" when it comes to subjective opinion.
There are many people who don't care for Axioms. There are many people who don't care for Polks. Neither fact means that either speaker is "bad." Both are manufactured by reputable companies, and have many satisfied owners. It all comes down to what
you prefer.
As far as the "bright" label is concerned, keep in mind that, in my opinion, Axioms are unflinchingly accurate speakers. If a given CD is poorly mixed and/or mastered, or simply mixed and mastered to sound good on the average boom box or older car system, there is a possibility that it will
not sound very good on Axioms. Garbage in; garbage out. However, with a well recorded, mixed, and mastered CD, Axioms have a "WOW" factor
that is through the roof.
Also, having a "live" room can make things seem "bright." Hardwood or tile floors, uncovered walls with pictures or posters under glass, wood or chrome furniture with little cushioning, etc., can accentuate high frequencies. IMHO, next to the speakers themselves, the size, shape, and surfaces of a room, along with it's furnishings, have the greatest influence on how your system sounds.
Rest assured that Axiom speakers are excellent speakers. Whether or not you would like them is the question.
