I actually really like the feel of the keys on my SMK-88 (typing on it now). However, mine has the blue tactile Cherry switches as opposed to the linear switches on your (and ashort's) SMK-88's.
I do agree that the passthrough USB 2.0 setup is stupid. Why not simply make the entire device 2.0, require only one USB connection to your computer, and have a built-in hub with 2 (or more) ports?
Overall, I really do like mine (which is why I am still using it). Since I own two of them, i will likely pass along one to my kids when I get home...