Compared to my primary system, M22 + EP500, the HomePod can't really compete. Think of the HomePod as a very high-quality small omnipolar speaker with a true 360° sound field. Although the sound coming from such a small device is deceptively large thanks to the beam-forming ability of the tweeters and the highly controlled woofer, there's simply no substitute for a stereo image that's only possible by physically separating the left and right channels. I still love my M22s and they'll continue to be my go-to for active listening.

Even if I do get a second HomePod and fall in love with their stereo imaging capability, I would not stop using my Axioms. They can play more audio sources, thanks to my receiver. smile