Thanks for the imput guys.

My speakers are 'A' stock, I believe. I ordered the custom finish, so I assumed they were fresh. I agree the grilles are flimsy, and I too had a little sticky substance on the top of one of the speakers, but nothing big. I emailed Axiom today, so I'll keep you posted on what happens. I think that the next set of speakers I buy will be of the real wood veneer class.

On a happier note, I did get a chance to listen to some more tunes - good times, good times.