I'm debating between these two companies, myself.

What do you mean by "forward" vs "laid-back"? Does this mean "exaggerated" vs "natural"? Or "loud" vs "flat"?

Do you think the bookshelves from Axiom would be a good representation of their tower speakers? My idea is to purchase bookshelves from both companies, audition them, make the winner my temporary computer speakers (no room for surrounds in living room, atm), and send back the "loser."

Why audition using bookshelves? Shipping costs :/

--MoboMoFo