I agree with most of this... There are still a few of us out here. ( Hey buddy )
I was and am still a big fan of the 962's but would disagree that they haven't been improved upon.
Starting with the 710's, I would say that all of the following CB generations have been a great addition. In addition to the 990's and 690's.
My number one priority with my irons is distance control and workability. To be able to play the same clubs the same distances I have become accustomed to the last forty years of playing.
All my sets which are MB/CB combo's, have given me that.
Having had a medical issue ( a year ago today), I am in need of an equipment adjustment. My hope is that the new "regular" lofted T100's will give me back that little distance which I have lost this past year. Not for the purpose of hitting it farther, but to get me back to the distances my "traditional" lofts have given me trough all my playing days.
The smaller profile and thin topline of the new T100 seem to be in line to what I am used to looking down at and that has me intrigued.
Here's to those of us still hitting our numbers without the jacked lofts..