I just ran across something interesting. There is some discussion about an all internet speaker supplier face-off. It will be interesting to see the results. I'm sure Ascend will fair well...rising above the rest...
http://www.hometheaterspot.com/htsth...5&o=31&fpart=1
If you're patient enough, you might get your answer.
FWIW, I don't think comparing towers to bookshelf speakers as fair. Two whole different design...