I can vouch for Salk designs. I have the HT2-TL (had the Songtowers before that) and they sound fantastic. Jim recently released the Soundscape 8's and from what I have read they are awesome too. I haven't heard the other speakers you mention though. The only drawback is higher shipping, as Salk does not sell kits AFAIK. I know at least one person in India had the Songtowers shipped there.