I use the CN vario with digital display only - no moving vario needles in the panel.
It's debatable whether the thermal assistant is fantastic, or an attractive nuisance, but it's easy to configure automatic display or not, the amount of lead it gives you on when to open up the turn, etc.
Whether you use the TA or not, the vario works very well. Mine does not connect to the hat removal device on the fin. Tried a few different TE probes including the double one but find the CN works best with electronic TE. You can switch this without re-plumbing anything, to see what you think best in your own installation.
Jim