Don't mean to resurrect and all, but, did you try using the 4040 as a single overhead and then the M179's about 9ft away as a pair and pan them hard left/right? If you haven't, by all means, do so!! If you have it, use a form of an 1176 in British mode on the room mics and watch your drumset come to life.
Also, you mentioned you had used some AKG C430's. What was your impression of these on overheads? How would you compare them with sm81's if you've experienced both? Anyone else. I've got my eye on a pair of those C430's for pretty cheap, but won't go for them if they're a waste. I'm hoping I don't have to spend sm81 money (more than $500/
pr) for new overhead mics.