Derrick!  

Yes 1.5 pounds is a fair bit of weight on a pair of skis.  Is it too much? probably not...

If you're a strong ski tourer and cultivate good form, not lifting the ski each step but sliding it along a heavier ski isn't so bad.  Binding weight is just as important though.  A frame binding which you have to lift every step of your 8 hour tour is sure to slow you down, but a good pair of pin bindings can save you lifting all that weight every step.  But there is so much more to it than just the weight.  Are you the type who isn't really going to enjoy adjusting your skiing style to a lighter less damp ski?  or do you easily get use to whatever it is you're skiing?

As an example I ski a 2050g Praxxis Protest with a Plum pin binding (350g).  I really really enjoy these skis, and have no problem dragging them up just about any hill.  But don't go crazy with extra weight.  I have a buddy who years ago was on some 2400 g Icelantic skis with naxos frame bindings.  He's very fit but really the extra kgs on his feet really did tire him out.  

Ask your ski buddies what they're riding, cause they are the ones you'll have to keep up with or wait for if your gear is ultra light or super heavy.