The less difference between the rings, the less need for ramps & pins. Back when I started working on bikes (and dinosaurs roamed the Earth) there wasn't much difference between "inner" and "outer" rings... usually just which side was countersunk for the chainring bolts.

A 38-44 double will be interesting, but you may have issues with the front derailleur's cage running into the inner ring before making the shift to the outer ring. Most "modern" front derailleurs are designed for large differences between the rings. An older derailleur may work better.