From originally deciding on going with Paradigm Studio 60's,a CC-590 center, ADP-590 rears and a Seismic 12 sub to stay within budget I am now looking at Axiom. Looking to audition M60's,a VP150, QS8's and a EP-500. Just posted looking for an audition in Maine with being willing to drive to New Hampshire or the Boston area.

In looking over some Axiom owners setups on the audition list and on some posts quite a few owners have gone with HSU for their sub.I am curious if there are any other reasons other then the lower cost? Also I would like to hear some comparisons in regards to build quality and reliability. Hard to tell from photos on a review but it does look like the EP-500 has a nicer look at least.

In deciding on an amp the Emotiva LPA-1 at under $500 with free shipping looked really like a great deal.Lots of comments on the sound but the more I looked into it I began to discover complaints regarding realibility. Decided in the end to go with a Rotel RMB-1075 which I understand is built like a tank.

Well Bay, I can confirm that my EP500 both looks and sounds great and I'm certainly glad that it wasn't even heavier than it is. Yes, budget is often a consideration, but the highest recommendation if yours can handle it.

Well, I used to live in Maine, but now am in Los Angeles, with all the speakers you want to demo...even run them through the Rotel RMB-1075!

I must say I LOVE the setup.

Where in Maine are you at?

I can't comment on HSU, but I think many take that route because of a cost aspect. I wanted all my speakers to have the same look, so I stayed with axiom. The reviews were enough for me to make a decision.

I had an ep350 for 1 year, an ep500 for 1.5 years, and I just upgraded to the ep600. Keep in mind, my room is 900 Sq Ft. The build quality and performance is great.

Just a note on Emotiva, there are no problems with the LPA-1 amp, the problems have been with the LMC-1 PrePro. I can assure you the build quality in the LPA-1 through MPS-1 is top grade components. And yes, they are built like a tank.

I will as well add myself to the "My EP500 freakin' rocks the house" group.

Even though there are cheaper options out there (not really as much in Canada), the EP500 is simply gorgeous without the grill on, and sounds amazing.

Highly recommended if you can afford it.

Are you happy with the difference between the EP500 and the EP600? I'm sure even the EP500 would blow everything I've heard to this point out of the water, but I'm drawn to the monster, maybe because I'm compensating for something.

In my opinion there was a noticable change from the 500 to the 600. I think a lot has to do with the overall size of the cabinet, the LFE is just killer. The 500 was light years ahead of the 350, especially in my huge room. It also is a great sub.

I'm glad to hear you are happy with your 600 Randy- since I was suggesting you go that route. Extra depth is always nice for LFE- but I agree the EP500 holds it's own.