I play more often plugged in than not. I have a variety of pick-ups, so have some experience with powered and passive. I haven't used this B-Band pick-up before. Plugging it into my Bose (only experience with it so far), I have to say it sounds very good.
The "barn door" electronics do not bother my sense of esthetics.
Of course, it should probably be said that I played an Ovation for 14 years. I think my Taylors look downright
sensuous with those knobs! I like to be able to make adjustments, if necessary, and have that right at hand. I also use a Taylor V-cable to be able to control volume and/or switch guitars without that annoying popping sound... a good thing to have with a passive pick-up, by the way.
The X7 has a nice sound acoustically (for its size), and absolutely kicks when plugged in. Well, with my limited experience. I have to say my first impressions with the B-Band are very favorable.
Jim