Spoke with Cutting Edge. My goal (sorry to say this out loud) is maximizing mid-range performance. His recommendation would be to go to 5-blade, same diameter and drop down 1". Any thoughts?

No shame in doing so. Many do that. Most spend their time cruising. When dropping down 1" did he mention whether it should be to a 26" or 27" and which 5 blade prop exactly? It depends on which prop you choose. Mercs Maximus is stamped lower than the true pitch ect. The Maximus comes in three diameters, with a long and short barrel just as an example. Then there' hes own prop, Hydros, and Herings.
Testing will, as always, be needed for best result.

The idea of having a set of "inexpensive" durable non-labbed 5 blades with strong blades, together with a set of more "expensive" and fragile labbed 4 blades for PR's, speed runs, fast fun runs ect, is the best of both worlds. Not a bad idea.

i totally agree with griff

Is it better to go + or - on a pitch as far as integrity on a prop? Or does it not matter?

For prop integrity, I don't think it matters. For best performance, it depends on what you are trying to acheive.

Greg was recommending his Cutting edge III, rounded tip labbed, 27". Since mid-range is the focus i guess switching from inward turning to outward would be worth trying also.