The speaker is not what is pictured. It is actually all black with two 1 inch ports on either side of the woofers. The speaker is asthetically very pleasing. I have this matched to a Paradigm and HK setup. Although for music it can't compete with the Paradigm 11's, it still adds to the experience. I would describe the sound on music as "forward". It's not harsh, just a bit heavy in the upper midrange. Please remember that this is before the speaker has had any time to break in so the sound isn't what it will settle into over time. Seeing any serious music listening is not done in any surround modes I am not at all concerned. As it is I would give it 6.5/10 for musicality based on a before break in usage. I expect it to mellow a bit and perhaps get to as much as a 7.5/10.
For movies, which is really what I was looking for without breaking the bank, it sounds excellent. That "forward" sound lends some weight to the experience which is welcome. It's clean and handles an ample amount of power without any complaints. I have not experienced any bottoming and I have tested it at a loudness that is more than what most people would ever use.
For movies I would give this an 8/10.
No it's not going to compete with a $500+ center from Paradigm but the VALUE at this price point, and even three times what I paid for it, makes this a fantastic deal.
I am completely satisfied with my experience through Electronics For Less and 110% satisfied with the speaker I purchased.
5/5!!!!










