Lizard King,
Sorry for the very late response. I simply love my Ascends. I was able to hear them at a co-worker's house when I visited him in Salt Lake City, and I decided then and there to get a setup. Of course, now they offer the SE version, and though they do offer an upgrade path, its about $160 per speaker. I'm happy with what I have. I'd recommend them to anyone. I don't mind giving demos either!