I also recently bought the new Wharfedale 9.6 and along with my M60's, they are slightly ahead I have to admit. Like you said the vocals are very nice and the bass is very present with 2 8" woofers. I do like them both however but the M60's are quite thin compared to the Wharfe's. Also, fit and finish is light years ahead of anything in this price class. This is one place AXIOM will have to increase as I had some experiences that were questionable and when I tried to screw in my spikes, the holes were so crooked I decided to keep the rubber feet. BUT............don't jump on me here, I like them very much just the 9.6's are better for my ears.