Ascend Acoustics - any experienced users?

I owned a pair of the Sierra 1s about 15 years ago in piano black which were being driven by conrad-johnson amp (ss) and pre (tube). The only reason they were sold was due to my own economic factors at the time. Nonetheless, they were extremely well constructed, especially the cabinet - quality was impressive at their price point. They were an easier, and perhaps more forgiving speaker with its SEAS tweeter. Bass response was impressive with better than expected mid-bass (“punch”). Seemed like quite a bit of thought, design, and effort went behind this speaker as it really put Ascend Acoustics on the map.

To be honest, I’ve been debating on picking up another pair for my office system. Definitely one of the few speakers I regret selling, but unsure what its competitors are these days. I really can’t see going wrong between either Fritz or Ascend.

I love my Sierra Raal. It blends well in the center with ESLs on its flanks. I ordered it as a center (not stipulating vertical) so I had to turn the ribbon 90°.  No sweat.  Much easier to understand dialogue vs any domes I have tried.

I had the Ascend raal towers for over 7 years. They used to be $3k a pair. Absolutely amazing quality and sound for the money. Surprisingly deep and articulate bass and the raals produced extremely precise treble but without fatigue. Huge sounstage too, covered the entire front wall. Plus Dave Fabrikant is one of the nicest audio company owner in the business. You can't go wrong. Only reason for moving on from them is once I built the house of stereo I went with much larger towers for a bigger sound.