I have an opportunity to audition the BE718s in my home after the holidays - although I will have to pay for shipping both ways (if I decide to send 'em back). When I saw the pictures I couldn't help but notice the similarity in design with the Sonus Concertas. I had the latter in my home a couple of years ago and liked them very much.

Funny thing is that one of my good friends told me that for the used price of these, I can do better with Focal's new Chorus 706v. I don't actually believe that, but if so, then there's some serious difference in price/value here.

Anyhow, back to the Usher's, did someone rip off Sonus' design? And how do they compare sound-wise? They will be going toe-to-toe against my current base-line, the Talon Khites. Any thoughts on the Ushers? Would it be worth paying for shipping just to audition them?