Thank you for the suggestions. I checked the listening position, and I found out that the information I posted above what somewhat incorrect. I had the listening position already set to 90% to the character. Assume this was the case, way back when I initially set it, was so I didn't have to hear my characters footsteps either.

Still, I've noticed that the footsteps of some minions are very loud, especially when compared to the player footstep. Oh well. I'm most likely one of few that is bothered by this. I suppose I'll have to retire my dodo and settle for an owlet.