Axiom has done a very good job at keeping their pricing while others have had substantial increases.
I think the problem you are having listener is that Axiom subs have a very linear output and a fairly unique sound quality that is more textured less dry then most others. IMO, the Axiom sound is much more realistic for music but it isn't perfect for movies.
I am also wondering if you have heard those other subs in your room with your system, apples to apples, as the room is the real factor when it comes to feeling that bass, not to mention your on-walls will not reproduce any extra bass in that key 50-70 hz range to help the sub out which is busy pushing those really low notes that overshadow that punchy range.
