...with a timeless design. These really need no improvement, and the newer XX series is, IMO, mostly just Neutrik's way of refreshing their patent since this one has expired and is now free to copy. I don't blame them by the way. There are very minor improvements that make the XX able to survive a slightly larger nuclear detonation than the X, but I think the main difference is that the X looks respectful/understated and the XX looks individualistic. I for one don't like to call attention to my connectors and prefer them to blend in with the equipment, so the X series is the winner.