I demo'd the C-9's and Veritas 2.2 and 2.4's when I was at my local shop and found the clarity of the Veritas VERY appealing. (I believe you're correct that placement issues may have marred your listening experience of the Veritas).
The C-9's upper-bass region was very muddy. The bass was not clean and tight in comparison to the Veritas. I ended up purchasing a pair of the Veritas and home deomo'ing them against the M60ti. Even the $1500 Veritas couldn't hold up against the clarity and detail of the M60's.
I honestly feel that if you really liked the Energy C-9's, you'll be literatly blown away by the M60 or M80's. I've always been a big fan of the Connoisseur speakers myself, but they really aren't in Axiom's league.
Good luck in your shopping.
