It occurred to me today that the M50s might be the best choice of all unless you want to play really loudly. They have the same woofer complement as the M80 (although the cabinet is smaller) but don't have the extra midrange and treble drivers. They are the highest model in the Axiom line with the "slightly less forward" sound (a bit less midrange than treble & bass) that you prefer. The 50s are also more forgiving with harsh recordings...

If you're going to get a sub anyways...


M60ti, VP180, QS8, M2ti, EP500, PC-Plus 20-39
M5HP, M40ti, Sierra-1
LFR1100 active, ADA1500-4 and -8