I am still getting over the trauma!
Anything I write about them has to be qualified by the fact that I am using an (unmodded) Squeezebox as the source.
Anyway, I had another listen today at higher levels than last night. They really can make some noise - that's in no doubt. They definately have more bite to the sound compared to the ATC's which suits me. I still think the ATC's have the edge in terms of midrange smoothness but the PMC's are giving me more at the top and bottom than the ATC's were missing. They definately don't send me to sleep and portray the groove of a song better than the ATC's. Overall, it's positive.
The speakers are being picked up tomorrow by UPS to go for an "investigation" regarding the damage. Once they find out about the plinths being attached during transit they will not pay out... but you never know. Will be talking to the seller tonight.
If I choose to keep the speakers as is and get (loads) of money back off the seller it may be my best option. I have had a look at the damage (unscrewed the rear X-over plate) and I don't think there is any structual damage that can't be rectified with some glue and braces. The cosmetic damage is at the bottom rear of each speaker so it will not be visible.
The only problem with this is that the speakers will be un-sellable so I will have to keep them forever and ever. We have a small child that has just got "mobile" so I am resigned to the fact that he is going to bash the hell out of anything I put in that room anyway. If the purchase price works out cheap enough (£1000?), maybe I am better off not having a pristine pair that I will be worried about? HiFi can be so cruel some times!