IRD also sells freewheels that are based on the Shimano 600 design and have ramps for easy shifting. These are similar quality (high) to your current freewheel but then they cost more. I think they have a lot more cog range choice than you'll find with Shimano (and they look prettier).

I have no issue with using ramped freewheels with friction shifting. In fact, I think they improve the shifting quality significantly. I'm not sure what the issue is that Ben is talking about.