Yes, there's no getting away from that mate - loosing a bit of volume in the cylinder does sap a bit of power and, some extra preload is needed.
......... The shot cycle in mine is a quick snap but, it's not what I'd call snappy (if that makes sense).
I suppose the recoil is still there but to a lesser degree and, it feels different to shoot.
Also, I like that the rifle cocks on only 1 click of the ABT - I don't get that clack clack clack if I forget to hold the button in any more