I've only tried the newer Variaxes at NAMM a few years ago, and I liked them. Miles better than the original series. You only really notice the models if you are doing things like fast palm muting, and then it feels strange. The new Variax really comes alive if you pair it with the Helix ecosystem, so you can change the settings on the fly. Another option is the Roland system, but you have to put their pickup on your guitar.
I own an original Variax Acoustic, which is still a fantastic instrument.