I really like the new design.  With the integrated slicer and the downward angle, I didn't have an issue with pasta sticking together like in the old design.  The only issue I had was I didn't get the pasta plate seated properly and so it didn't extrude as well as it should.  Now that I know the issue and what to look for, I don't expect this to be an issue next time.  A more positive tab for plate seating would be handy...maybe not as much as was on the old plates that married to the grinder, but certainly something that shows you're engaged before you screw on the bezel.  I would like to see more plates for purchase (fettuccine, lasagna, and linguine...the first two were available in the old design) but I am pleased with what is available when you get this and look forward to trying other styles.