I've heard a lot of Axioms (most of the line, other than the M2s and in/on walls), and I would never describe any of them as harsh, except when the source material is.

I haven't heard any B&W 804s, so I can't speak to that.

I'll also point out that unique drivers do not necessarily mean better sound. Kevlar is a perfectly valid material to make a speaker cone out of, but so is aluminum.

I am the Doctor, and THIS... is my SPOON!