The angle of the straddle cable has a huge amount to do with how the cantis can feel. But I also think you hit on something when you mentioned that the pads were from the 90's as well. Likely time has not been kind to them. But it's only one factor in the comparison. Yes Cantis with the post style pads can be set up to work decently. But they are a PITA to do it compared to the ease of the V brakes or even the new generation of cantis that use the V brake style pads. I just never seemed to have enough hands with the post style pad cantis and I don't mind their fade from popularity at all.