Athena hit a home run with their Audition Series speakers. Then BB yanked them. Then they started selling these big dollare towers. I was anxious to hear them, but I normally don't shop BB. Since they were close, I popped in and couldn't believe the sound of the WS series. HORRIBLE. I a/b'd the WS to the Yamaha slim towers and I couldn't believe the difference in sound. I'm not one to push Yamaha speakers, but they were actually pretty good. It was hard to believe the bass coming out of those towers with AND WITHOUT the sub. I chalked it up as a bad set up. I stopped by two other BB's in other parts of town, and wouldn't you know it - the WS just didn't sound good. All I can say is go check them out for yourself. For the price they are asking - I'd want a lot more for my dollar.