Adire doesn't claim that the distortion level is perfect throughout the range of Xmax. What XBL2 does is it helps keep the driver in control with a smoother, more linear BL range. Take for instance, the Tumult against the Blueprint 1503. Both high Xmax drivers but the XBL motor topoloy of the Tumult allows it more excursion while staying in a high BL, low distortion output range. I know this from personal experience with both drivers on many occasions. Being at 3%THD at Xmax is a good thing really. How many drivers do you know that are even close, yet the same or better at their rated Xmax? Most are up around 10% and above I am betting.
Now don't get the wrong idea here, I am bot saying the Tumult is the end all answer to high excursion 15"ers, but by all means, it does hold it's own when it comes to SQ in the "monster subwoofer" category.
Noidster