sportscarpat,
That's a nice TIG welded intake you are offering!
But let's not create any confusion about better...it's just a different approach based on the equipment available.
I CNC machine a near perfect transition from the port shape in the jug to the I.D. of the carb opening. My intake is made out of Aluminum, and plenty thick at the flange so that the final port matching can be done, (by the customer), without any risk of running out of material.
The O-ring seal is very important...otherwise I would not have included it. A good seal between the intake and carb is critical...the o-ring, on the diameter, guarantees this positive seal. The clamp then becomes just that...A clamp to keep the carb from falling off...not a seal.
Of course I can make my intakes in any shape. I would make them like a crazy straw if it would make the engine run better...but the straight through design is the best for flow.
Jim