Another carer here. If my braking performance is compromised at all my whole riding performance degenerates but that's just me. I am sure there are plenty of others that it doesn't affect to anything like the same amount
I am on the side of pads do make a difference. Best I have used are Magura race pads but you need to keep them working hard. When they are cold they are hopeless. My go to are galfer purple. Strong and last well
A little off topic but do the braided lines make a noticeable difference in performance? Certainly they look cool and they might be more durable but I am interested in the performance aspect
And being an x Saint fanboy I can fully understand the love but I suggest anyone contemplating going to mt7 calipers give the magura levers a full test first. They work very well. Biggest plus for me over shimano is the consistency which Ultimately equals time
I use shimano fluid for my mt7s. Have even mixed shimano and blue blood. Never had an issue in 2 years and 15000 k however there are some experts who say not to do that. Not sure why