I wouldn't say that the Paradigm is laid back to the degree of the M60s. Not even close actually. The two speakers are really very closely matched. What I would like to do some time is compare them in my own environment.

Judging by trends in the industry, I'd be willing to bet that the new speakers will be behemoths.

House of the Rising Sone
Out in the mid or far field
Dedicated mid-woofers are over-rated