Need some advise on what would give me some more bang in the audio department. Choosing between M60 or an EP500

Setup at this time is
1 VP150 Centre channel
2 Custom fronts - ( 1-horntweeter/1-midrange/2- 15" subs) (speakers are 20 years old)
2 QS8 surrounds
2 M3Ti back speakers
1 Paradigm 8" powered sub
Powered by a Yamaha 5790 AV receiver.

The front stage seems to be balanced as I hear a seamless transition between speakers. But I keep wondering if I am missing something with 20 year old technology.
The Paradigm sub was bought to keep the whole home theatre on budget at the time, as well as thinking that the 4-15" subs in the front speakers could give me some bass.

What should I purchase first - new fronts or new sub?

I think it all depends on whether you use your speakers more for HT or music. My first thought would definitely be get a pair of M60s but if you are a hardcore bass junky then get the sub. Seems like a tough decision since both can provide GREAT benefits but in the end what do you prefer, complimentary floorstanders or a kick@ss sub?

BTW, M60s also provide some nice bass but not sure how they would stack up against your custom speakers. Seeing how none of us have heard your setup, I would still recommend M60s. Have you tried asking Axiom for their advice?

ok, my advice...get the M60's and then get a sub used on ebay. subs are not as important on make as the fronts are for timber to the center. since you have the VP150, and i know from personal experience the m60's have loads of bass when needed, i'd say get a new sub after...and you can get great deals online used. just my thoughts

Without hesitation I say get the M60ti's. 20 year old speakers with dual 15" woofers...ouch. I haven't heard them, but I'm willing to bet that's some sloppy bass.

The M60ti's bass will likely be MUCH punchier. It's actually a sound that will take some time getting used, since you've likely been hearing the exact opposite for so long.

Do I hear an echo?

I think the m60's would give you the most inproved sound as well. I think the 60's would provide enough bass along with the sub you currently have to cover that area for a while. There's just no comparison between my current towers (m80's but I understand the 80's and 60's sound similar) and my old speakers. My .02c.