Yes from my reading of it the speaker does not achieve a full 9db per speaker but it doesn't need the full 9db to meet spec. The port is designed for corner loading. The original Snell was quite a bit different. The AN E is measured by Audio Note in the corner on a stand and they have all the best measuring equipment that is available. So the matter comes down to trust. Do people think they lied. I don't see the point because even if you cut the 18db gain in half it still would be 22-23hz -6db and usable at 18hz. Since next to nothing is recorded down there it's a non issue. Unfortunately, I can't find the thread on your question at AudioAsylum. If I run across it I will post it. Send em an e-mail if you're curious.