Mountain Biking - Stable platform shocks, Tried one yet?

Looking at the options for upgrading the air shock on my XC bike.

Would like to hear from people who have tried the Manitou Swinger SPV, the Fox Pro-Pedal, etc.

Tell about your experience and opinion.
How do you like it?
How does it compare to other shocks you've ridden?
Are they really that much better than the old versions?

Yes, I've looked at MTBR but there are not too too many reviews yet.

what bike are you looking to put it on?

It's for my '02 K2 Launch. Right now it has a plain jane Float on it.

Theres a huge write up in this months issue of MBR covering the Manitou Swinger SPV, Fox float and Romic twin tubes on three different bikes.

Forgot to say, im sure if youre stuck i could scan em.

MBR? Not sure if that is sold on this side of the pond. I'lll have to check one of the big magazine stores.

I test rode the VT2 with the Swinger on it, even without really setting it for my weight it was pretty sweet. It does everything it says it does, and does it pretty well. When I get some cash in a month or two im guying the 04 model for my enduro (the 04 doesnt have the external oil resivor)

It works great for me. I leave it in five inch travel mode almost all the time since I notice little in the way of bobing unless I stand and mash (but that's what lockout is for).

There is a group retrofitting platform valves to older shocks. Push industries or something? You'd have to check around. But I gather one can send their older shock in, such as a Float, and have it fitted with a platform valve for under $100.

For that price I think it is well worth the upgrade. If I was going to buy an all new shock I'd go Manitou 4 way. But those don't come cheap.