Both MLX and ETR sets require two pair, while the 44xx series (getting cheaper all the time) run on just a single pair. That fact alone may make a big difference when attempting to light up phones in areas where pairs are thin or unreliable.

New plastics are available for all three set styles if that's an issue--you can make any of these phones look new.

Personally, I find that the 44xx and MLX sets are more "ruggedized" than the Partner phones. However, the Partner phones win the "sexy" contest every day and twice on Sunday when compared to the '70s look of the MLX sets. The 4400 series phones are a nice compromise, IMHO.

Lastly, I find that the ETR boards have a much higher failure rate in the Magix chassis than the digital blades.

To me, these points are the important ones. The cost of ALL Magix stuff is so low that anyone dwelling on the price difference between a clean 4424D+ and a new Partner 18D Euro2 is a hair-splitter. They're both inexpensive and ridiculously reliable.

Oh! And it's also important to know that, while Partner sets ARE supported on the Magix, they DO NOT behave as you might expect them to if you're familiar with Partner ACS. Magix support of these sets was to provide an upgrade path for Partner customers, and while the emulation is nice, it IS limited.

"Press play and record at the same time" -- Tim Alberstein