J
I own an Epik Vanquish, solely for LFE - don't use it at all for music. I've had several phone conversations with the folks at Epik and have never had any problems. Good information over the phone, but I'll agree they don't respond well to e-mails. They also just changed facilities and have not answered the phone for the last few weeks, but are answering the phone again.
Overall, nice sub with decent output. very small form factor (which I needed). Extremely well built, no hum from the sub amp. It does not have any form of EQ, nor does it have a manual. Extremely well packed for shipping.
The Epiks do not have any form of veneer options, they are all black pebbled finish, no satin or piano black.
The Empire is just now shipping so don't see anything on the Empire's QC on any forum. The Empire discussion on AV123 was discussing the new 15" driver for the upcoming MFW HR? and it's possible QC problems, not the driver in the Epik. (I believe from my reading).
I've been impressed with this sub (for movies only) and would purchase again from Epik.
Mark