I've also gone from store-bought to ID. Started with B&W DM601 s3's, then moved to Paradigm Studio 20's. Now, I have x-ls, like billnchristy, only in the Piano Rosewood finish. When selling my 20's, the x-ls delivery overlapped (though though this was my original satin black pair...i've since sold them to get the PR finish). So, for a few days I had the 20's and the x-ls in the same room, hooked to the same receiver. Now, they weren't level matched, but I was able to a/b them. While I can't say that the x-ls dominated the studio's in any way, I can say that I did like them better. A bit more laid back (less forward) than the Studio 20's, and the midrange was a little more apparent...I always found the 20's to have more up top and down low with the mids sounding a bit pushed back. Could be my room, or just my ears, but that's how their presentation struck me. Others may differ. I still like the studio 20's. Alot. One of my favorites that I've owned. However, considering that they cost $850/pr and the x-ls is $219/pr, and me being a bargain hunter (read: cheap a$$), the x-ls won me over hands-down. They're that good, for that cheap.