Hybrid Plush DIY - Need Help with comfort layer or entire build?

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1

Looking for suggestions on how to make my DIY enjoyable. Here’s my attempts so far (from bottom to top).

Attempt #1
1" LUX-R (Foam Factory)
8" TPS 14.75g (Pocket Spring Store)
1" HD-36 (Foam Factory)
2" Dunlop Medium (Foam Factory)
3" Plush Talalay (APM)
15" Wool zippered mattress Cover (APM)

However, that was way too hard. Felt like sleeping on a board and we woke up sore.

Attempt #2
1" LUX-R (Foam Factory)
8" TPS 14.75g (Pocket Spring Store)
1" HD-36 (Foam Factory)
3" Plush Talalay (APM)
15" Wool zippered mattress Cover (APM)

I took the Dunlop out and tried again, but we woke up sore again. It was slightly more comfortable.

Looking closer, the TPS extends beyond the APM cover causing it to stretch tight.

Attempt #3
1" LUX-R (Foam Factory)
8" TPS 14.75g (Pocket Spring Store)
1" HD-36 (Foam Factory)
3" Plush Talalay (APM)
No mattress cover

Trying just the layers with a fitted sheet and no mattress cover, we decided the 3" Plush Talalay is simply too firm as a comfort layer with a solid base.

Attempt #4
Old Box Springs
1" LUX-R (Foam Factory)
8" TPS 14.75g (Pocket Spring Store)
1" HD-36 (Foam Factory)
3" Plush Talalay (APM)
No mattress cover

This actually feels pretty good so going to try sleeping on this. The box springs made the bed significantly softer. Obviously, the lack of a cover is a problem, so we’ll try this with the APM cover tomorrow.

What We’re Trying to Build
In the end, we’re looking for a feel like the Lebeda Mystique or Aurora plush. My wife liked the Sleep Number I8, but I just couldn’t quite like it. It had a weird softness to me regardless of number.

My daughter has the Engineered Sleep Duo Latex with 4" Talalay comfort layer. She sleeps great on it. I haven’t tried it. Seems like it could be too soft, but way better than my current build.

Next Steps
I’m thinking about trying the following and would greatly appreciate advice.

  1. 2" Memory foam comfort layer (5lb) (Foam Factory)
  2. New Box Springs
  3. 15" Knit mattress cover (Pocket Spring Store)

The 14.75ga coils seem decent, but maybe it’s just too firm. I barely sink in laying on top. I’m 6’4" 195lbs so pretty spread out.

Thanks in advance!