If you can listen to some Paradigm Studio 100's they will give you a pretty close approximation as to the sound of the M80s are capable of. These speakers are great for detailed listening, but if you are just starting out, go out and listen to some other speakers and see if there are any in your price range for that front 3 that you like then order the M80s/VP180 and compare how they sound to the others you have heard, then go with the ones you like the best. BTW you can look at the HEARING THINGS forum for a list of potential people willing to give Axiom auditions.
