While I won't comment on any other speakers you should look at, as you have already done your homework and listening...

I *will* say that my recommendation is to go with what *your* ears have told you. That salesperson who made the anti-Klipsch statement has an obvious vested interest in his/her brands. Trying to cloud peoples' minds with BS about other brands just to prop up his/her own is pretty low in my opinion, and I would recommend not buying from him/her (even if you end up choosing those same speakers or others he/she carries). Good dealers let you listen to the music and let your own ears decide without feeling the need to diminish the competition.

---Dave