mobomofo:
"Laid-back" is a polite term for "dull," "muffled", "subdued" and "recessed". It describes midrange and treble output that has a dip or depression vs. linear and accurate; another term for a speaker that is detailed is "presence, " meaning that a vocalist or solo intrument seems very present in the room.
Vocals and lots of midrange sounds heard on a "laid-back" speaker will sound farther away, less clear, and lacking detail. Because they have less midrange energy, the soundstage won't seem as wide, deep and transparent.
"Forward" speakers typically have a boost or hump in the midrange and treble, which willl tend to make vocals and brasses too detailed, even shrill and strident (Klipsch) and fatiguing over longer listening periods.
I've not heard the Rockets, so I can't comment.
Regards,
