Lots of good comments here, and I know change is always treated like it's... change. Here are the facts.
I have spent 3 years trying to improve the design of the original Slow 'N Sear, reduce cost, and improve our capacity to manufacture.
Over the last 3 years our costs have continually gone UP though we have kept the price the same.
The Slow 'N Sear 2.0 offers the following improvements:
20% more water capacity in the reservoir
30% more sear zone with the reservoir removed
Reduced ash buildup in the charcoal basket due to an improved bottom plate pattern
Reduced warping due to overbored rivet assembly that allows for flex during high heat cooks
We did make a change to 430 SS, which is a bit cheaper than 304 SS, however, we use the SAME GAUGE of metal, which is what's most critical. Both metals have the same coefficient of expansion when heated and the same melting point. 430 SS actually melts at a little higher temp.
The new Slow 'N Sear has the same 10 year warranty as the old Slow 'N Sear and is made of MUCH higher quality material than the porcelain enabled carbon steel lid and bowl of your kettle. The SnS metal is not the weak link in this equation.
The new design is better and with time I'm confident you're going to love it as much as I do.