Try the later N1201 crossovers. Or the model 19's. Way better than the originals.
Remove the screens over the woofs.
416-8B's are better woofs. The -8a are a bit wooly.
Use 802-8G or 902-8a drivers with the bug screens removed.
Do damp the horns.
Brace the cabs per Jim Dickensons article.
They will come around.
BTW, EQ the low end only, a 1/3 octave EQ below 500hz will work wonders.
I actualy added 1/4" plywood spacer rings at the woofer mount to keep the cone from hitting the cab on big excursions.

Remember, these are theatre speakers, not home. But with work and patience, they can be quite nice.

There is a reason M19's were better for home use.

ron