Specifically the Shimano CX50.

I've been commuting on a 1x9 setup for awhile and I'm building up a new commuter with a 2x10 drivetrain. Right now I have a 38 tooth front chainring and a 12-27 cassette, which works fine. But I feel limited on descents or flats. The 36/46 setup seems like a great happy medium. Just wondering if anyone has tried it and can comment on its functionality and shifting performance. Obviously I don't think it would suck...but I want it to be wonderful.

Why not try a compact road crank, 50/34? That would give you a real live higher top and also a lower bottom than the 46/36 cx crankset. I have a 1x7 setup, 42x11-28 and another bike w/ that compact double x 9 spd I think it's got an 11-26 cassette. The 2x9 really does give me that giddyup that the 7 spd only has in comparison to when I used to ride that bike as a single speed...

I use a 50/34 compact on my cyclocross commuter and it works great. The 34 comes in handy on the steeper hills that I have on my route.

I've crunched some numbers lately, and while I like the idea of a 42x12-28T setup, I could be really happy with a 46/34 or a 46/36 double. Provided the big ring isn't too far outboard.

I would suggest a slightly larger chainring for the OP's main bike if uphills are no sweat. Or maybe some spin classes.

I run a 48/34 double on my Tricross with a 10 speed, 12-27 rear cassette and have had pretty good luck - however, my commute is relatively flat. I agree with TS that a slightly larger chainring might give him the giddyup he seems to be lacking on the flats.