Jerry,
the first time I heard Axioms were M2's that I ordered. I agree with your statement completely. Metallic. I had them a short time but they had to go back because customs had sliced one with a box cutter. When I went to demo M60's, I was expecting to hear the sound that you described. I figured it was the metal tweeters,(my other speakers have silk tweeters). But the M60's were amazing. I wish I could have listened to M3's at all, and M2's again so I could advise you. I would keep them as long as the trial period allows. Who knows.

good luck ! Audio can be a callous mistress.

M3 and
M80