I am a late convert of the 556 as well. I waited to purchase one for ages until they started offering the 556-Classic as I did not care for the looks of the original hand guard. When I decided to purchase, Sig was offering the Buy a 556 and get a 522 free, so I though, heck, why not and get a free high end plinker for the kids. There may still be some of the free 522 packages around as I ordered one for a customer last month.
I do not think you would be disappointed with the 556. Excellent rifle and exceptionally accurate.
yes the original fore-end was pretty bad. Now mine sports the classic fore-end and the looks and feel have gone way up.
What kind of mag do you have in the 556 in your photo?