I own an Anthem 29er. Good bike, had a couple of dramas, but not the point. I purchased based on price alone.
Later on, I test rode the Epic, with my bike there for a back to back comparo, and stand by my opinion that the Epic rides better in every way than the Anthem.
Not saying the Anthem is bad, Far from it, just the Epic for me felt heaps better. Bike was quieter, suspension was easier to set up, was alot better under braking, and the bike felt more solid, if that makes sense.
Ended up getting a Carbon Comp 29er for my wife. It was more expensive, on paper lesser spec, but cheaper isn't always better value.