Curtis, I agree with you. My curiosity is piqued.
However, I do not expect any Axiom representative to come out in writing and cite specific performance comparisons between their products and those of rival manufacturers. This practice would be especially dangerous relative to subs, whose performance is perceived as more easily quantifiable than other loudspeaker products. I've not seen the other companies do so - and for good reason. Such comparisons are, by definition, biased. More importantly, they serve to alienate devotees of other brands who might have otherwise become potential customers. Finally, it's just bad form to throw down the gauntlet in the face of a rival unless you are absolutely convinced you can win - not just the battle, but the war. It's best to leave the measurement and comparisons to those who can be objective - credible consumers and trade publications.
I just don't think it's reasonable to expect Alan or Ian or anybody from Axiom to publicly divulge the specifics of their technical or marketing research. The prior third-hand references in this thread were made in the context of a sales pitch - I fully expect each of these companies to tell me that their subs outperform the others.
I think what we're all eager for is additional, real world reviews of the new Axiom products. I'd like to continue to express that eagerness without disparaging either the conduct of a salesperson doing his job, or the motives of the manufacturer.
What we need here is a special project by craigsub.
