I love MidpSSH :)

It works flawlessly for my needs, I use it to remotely administer a Nortel CS1000M PBX when I'm in the field and need quick access to look up a TN or disu/enlu.

I was a linesman/I&R guy for Telus, and I can attest to what you're saying. There is LOTS of old wiring out there, especially that 'licorice' stuff, it was the worst to work with. Nothing kills DSL like the dogs breakfast of Inside Wiring, Drop Wire and Telco Plant.

I think the difference is that DSL uses QAM where 1000BASE-T is using (correct me if I'm wrong) Manchester Bit Encoding (analog vs digital). I think that's where the speed difference comes into play.

With SAC boxes everywhere this isn't really a problem. The DSLAM justs gets pushed further and further out towards the customer. The real problem for Telco's will be line noise on aerial plant (due to induction, bridge-taps, and having to use clear caps). This will pretty much mean all telco's using VDSL-2 will have to be going to a dedicated count (bell-core) which means it's a good time to be a phone guy, cuz you'll be working lots :)