I got a chance to audition a prototype 9861 during development in Anaheim for the Japanese market. Left a lot to be desired in the mid/upper-bass area, crossing a 411-8A @1200hz to a 902-8A/811B for midrange, if I recall.
Seems from the specimens "out there" that they eventually loaded them with 416's. I'd guess that made a significant midrange improvement.