Interesting. I found I had much better performance when using both the LFE and FL/FR setup. Of course, I've got the original 9000, not the MK II.

I had the same problem you do in regards to the fronts not balancing. I found that by adjusting the physical position of the speakers (moving them left, right, etc.) I was able to get them to come in to perfect alignment.

Hope you're having fun, and welcome to the Outlaw family!