I've listened to a pair of 6.5 type S acomponents directly next to a pair of 6.5 infinity reference components (same price) The reference series (infinity low end) had much fuller mids and fairly crisp highs. Then I listened to 6.5 infinity kappa components ($125 on ebay) and I wept with joy. Alpines are not crap. There is simply better to be had in the price range.