Good point on the use of close mic recording bringing about sounds not normally heard from a distance when not mic'd and amplified.
I like the speed of quick transients and a sealed ribbon tweeter and two 4.5" mid/woofers yield superb PRAT to me, as well as digging deep due to cabinet design and port loading.
When listening becomes painful I wonder what purpose it serves. Bite perhaps is best expressed with brassy instruments in my mind. A little might be realistic. I don't need zing. I want speed and great tonality.