>>yes, it's impressive, but when you can get something similar for near 500 less.....
Emphasis on *something*
The question is whether the EP500 is closer in performance to the 20-39PCi (which is ~500 less) or the 20-39PC+ / PB12+ (which are about the same price as EP500 once you figure shipping, taxes and brokerage).
Based on power and specs I would put the EP500 in line with the PC+, not the PCi, so I would also argue that the EP500 is not overpriced.
Now, does Axiom *have* anything positioned directly against the SVS PCi ? No, the closest is EP350 which is its equal in some ways but not others. On the other hand the EP350 is nicer finished, matches the rest of the Axioms, and some reviews seem to think it is better for music than the SVS (although I have to admit I'm a bit dubious about this "musical sub" thing).
If you're in the EP350 price range there is serious competition but the EP500 seems to hold its own better. I wouldn't be surprised to see a slightly upgraded EP350 at some point (and no I don't have any inside info).
