Campy 10sp brifters don't suck - they are on most of my bikes. The shifting is good, the braking is good,and the ergonomics are good, at least for my hands. For me, the sweet spot for riding is old lugged steel with Campy 10sp triple, and that describes most of my rides..
Downtube shifting of any kind is not a good look for me any more. Being tall means a long reach and being fat means a not-easy long reach.
I have used Shimano 8 and 9 speed barcons - I like 'em, but I like Campy Ergo more.
After a few years of friction riding at Eroica, I can say (1) downtube shifters are not for me (see above), (2) Suntour power ratchet barcons work quite well, and (3) Rivendell barcons are excellent, with smooth, flawless shifting.
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"I'm in shape -- round is a shape." Andy Rooney