I haven't kept up much with 26" tires in the last 2 years so take my input for what its worth...

The Continental Mountain King has been a pretty good tire for me around here. I run 'em tubeless with a 2.4 up front and 2.25 out back. Pretty low rolling resistance considering how well they hook up in the corners.

Other combo I've tried with mild success in our area is the Kenda Nevegal up front with the Small Block 8 in the rear. The SB8 can be a great tire in proper conditions - mostly dry hardback. If the trail is wet at all in the corners, prepare for a wild ride...it has a mind of its own.

At the end of the day, I'm with Russ...you can go crazy, and dam near broke, searching for *the perfect* tire cuz you're never gonna find it. There's just too many variables that are in play. Find a tire that makes YOU happyy and roll with it (pun intended).