A:Answer I own the tower version plus the matching subwoofer. Depending upon your listening environment and space requirements, the towers are a great choice for much fuller sound since they are a three-way. They don't pump out too much base on their own, which is why I added the sub. You can't go wrong with these since they lowered the price. In addition to the extra 5" woofer, the tower adds the super tweeter. So all around, the listening experience from the towers will be superior to just the bookshelves. However, if space or budget are limited, start with the bookshelf speakers. I plan to add the bookshelves as my rear surrounds later. If you have the funds and space, start with the towers and add the other speakers later.