I have the -9s in my R32 gtr with all supporting mods fuel, exhaust,adj cam wheels, pfc, no head work, cooler, split fire for ignition, etc on 18psi i made 362rwkw max out the turbos.
Response is fantastic it might not be as quick as the -7s but all there by 3600rpm and holds hard all the way to 7200rpm. minor lag but mid and top no sacrifice or drop of.
Really for the street i agree these are the ultimate and nothing better when a wrx driver leaps ahead thinking hes got you and your -9s kick in a moment later and all he remembers is my beautiful big red dinner plate rear lights pulling away into the distance.
i had the -7s originally and they responded quickly but ran out of puff to early and thats where i wanted them to pull hard to redline but they drop of leaving a sour taste in your mouth of disappointment, everybody has their opinions i not saying mine is the correct but having had both -9s all the way if i had done some head work the -5s i would consider but these are alot laggier for the street so the -9s will suit light track work better i gather as well.
Hope this helps anyone trying to choose which avenue to go.
cheers,
Dave