Now I realize the Mark Levinson has more defined / deeper bass, more air, more detail, but also more edginess and harshness.
What am I hearing? and what is the real issue?
You are hearing what I mentioned in my response above. Changing speakers is a major impact on the synergy of your system. You have changed the sound signature and how it interacts with your room. Adding the old cd player that rolls off high frequencies and rounds off edges helped a bit but it’s a band aid.
You have to look at every piece of electronics, cables and the most important component, your room acoustics. And give the focals a chance to break in. The woofers need some time to loosen up and start producing bass that will balance it all out within the possibilities of the room acoustics.
Can you list all your components, cables and room treatments(rugs, any acoustic panels, etc.)

