Yes, I have them about 18” from the front wall. This is closer back than when I put more power in them. Some amps really push bass from these guys. So when I tried Class A offerings I was able to move them closer to the wall. I use no port bung plugs.
Not a hair of sibilance. The care, however, comes in matching sources. These speakers don’t shred poor recordings. They can highlight sources and amps. So much so I can easily hear the difference in DACs (LuMIN, LTA Aero, Marantz Ruby). I wouldn’t call the speakers fussy. They do show off differences pretty darn well though.
FYI. I prefer non fatiguing presentations. I don’t like parlor tricks that impress me at early listening then grow bright, tense, harsh etc.
with my LTA or my analog setup, they can sound utterly delicious. Golden age of jazz records (think Rudy VG) show horns off in a way that has body like crazy.
I think the speakers can grow with your system changes.