I've posted this elsewhere, but I did say I'd post it here so:
Ok - I thought people might be interested in my take on the two SD versions and some comparative pictures.
Firstly - delivery:
Buying an original SD resulted in an interesting brown jiffy bag, part printed label, part handwritten, arriving. This containing the SD kit wrapped in bubble wrap and a basic sheet of instructions... Somehow this felt "exciting" and "subversive"...
The Mk2 comes in a lovely box, with beautifully printed instructions (which I didn't read) and all the bits in nice individual boxes inside the bigger box... This felt "quality"...
Onto the devices - the Mk 1 feels "handbuilt" and "engineered", the Mk2 feels "designed" and "manufactured". The Mk1 looks like a lovely bit of machined component, the Mk2 is really shiney..
The Mk2 is a bit bigger:
In the hand, the Mk2 is noticeably bigger and heavier - but still small and light (if that makes sense
)
The Mk2 requires a much reduced push on the button than the Mk1. This is noticeable when you stand them on their buttons:
To use there is no real difference between the two - they work reliably and well.
The Mk 2 has really kept the "form" of the Mk1:
(compare this picture to ones of the DSE905 and you can really see how it differs from "the real thing")
The Mk2 is clearly designed to be easier to maintain/repair...
My conclusion: If I'm honest I prefer the original, but for purely idiosyncratic reasons - it feels like a "one off":.. The Mk 2 is a better "product" in nearly all respects and is a splendid high quality device but then, I'm strange...