I disagree, though I see your point in some aspects. They're certainly unique from a smobbing/abs mc perspective. But to be competitive and playable in a consistent pk/traditional dodge channeler setup, the low base sps and significantly reduced sp regen (12 base regen per tic vs 18-19 with normal mentals is a big gap over a pk session) along with not being able to prac fireball is a significant handicap. Add on top missed regen tics at higher taint levels and it would be brutal to pk with.
A 16 17+ 17+ 18 14 channeler with str teas or a friend with strength weave is going to be better pracs (spell and physical), significantly higher sp pool, much better sp regen, greater weave selection, and still be just as effective at bash and abs.