Well, I might as well jump in on this as everyone else seems to be. I've used the bn classic with the older braille display and also an MPower. As for the plastic issue, I like the case, but am wondering if possibly Mary Ellen wasn't actually referring to the plastic behind the display which is part of the area for the cursor buttons. On the older display, this area is rubberized and almost but not quite flush with the top of the display. On the newer display used in the MPower and I believe also on newer braillenotes, the cursor buttons are plastic and sort of point down towards the braille cell which they can activate. Personally, I really like the looks of both and which is preferable is probably just a matter of personal preference. But, maybe to some, this area might look a bit less durable although I doubt very much that it is.
As for the feel of the display, I've been able to test the two units literally side by side and I like both. But, I have to say that the display on the MPower does seem just a bit sharper and easier to read, at least for me. Also, the newer display is much quieter as Jonathan mentioned. The older display tends to make a sort of clunking sound when the display refreshes as you type for example. If I were to make a choice, and again this is personal preference, I would pick the newer display. But, I can definitely live and be happy with either. Don
