Hi, I chose the AU24SX because I thought they just sounded better. To me, the Emotions were a bit 'dark' or less resolving on the high end. I bought a full loom of the AU24SX. I guess you could say the Emotions were fuller balance and more meat on the low end. But I love the sparkle! The Elations are 'clearly' in another league. From top to bottom excellent. I know more $, but to me worth it. I sold all my Au24SX and now have full loom of Elation. Anywhere close to Maryland? It was an education when my friend / dealer brought over the Elations when he delivered my speakers. I learned that brightness sometimes means less midrange.
And the KS are not expensive by some comparisons. Ken