So, I ended up going with the newest iteration of Schwalbe's Marathon Supreme (HS469)... they turned out to weigh about 300 grams lighter than the earlier version due to a slightly thinner sidewall, with a newer compound for a more supple casing. Price was $53 per. Main reason I went with them is because they had them on Amazon and I have a store card, otherwise will probably have considered other tires. Too bad Compass and Vittoria Hypers weren't on Amazon.

So far, I'm very pleased with the added width. I realize I can easily fit a 38c on the frame, but that's water under the bridge...

Haven't taken them for a commute voyage yet (still waiting for the AZ heat to tone it down a bit). Definitely feels great going over drainage grates and literally not feeling anything. That's an other worldly experience!

Thanks for all your recommendations, seems like there's only a few go-tos, and I trust they're all proven.