Well, I'm a new ascends owner... Here's my very fresh UPS story (just got them today, just emailed cust service about what to do). I'll let the pictures do the talking. No major damage on the box for me either:
http://www.flickr.com/gp/67755666@N00/H552F2
edit:
and yes my speakers were bubble wrapped and the other one seems fine, listening to it now. I guess I shoot you a copy of the email I sent, davef.