I ran a pair of 12" L7s in a custom ported enclosure for a long time. That set-up was loud as hell but I can tell you they definitely lacked detail. It was great for me as I was 18 at the time and had the loudest system in town (I thought). I'm 26 now and my taste in music has changed since back then. These days I'm about SQ so I'll be sticking with sealed enclosures from here on out. It all depends on what you want to get out of it. Based on the videos I've seen and from these forums, I have no doubt that the ICONS will satisfy your SPL craving unless you're looking to compete. If you're looking to compete, there may be better SPL options. ***By the way - I am not a SSA fan-boy. I just received my GCONS but have yet to run them, and have yet to hear any of the SSA products in person - I would consider my opinion rather unbiased at the moment. I hope that changes once I finish my install