I've been an ameristeps guy the past two seasons, and even though I now have a predator there are some major perks to the ameristeps.
I can lock mine down tight enough with the cam buckle that they never make a peep. I also like that it's pretty simple to shift your tether and completely change your positioning.
Lighter weight, and I think they're pretty quiet too. You do get contact noise sometimes, but it's not metallic. I'm a big believer in what I call "sound profile." To me, the plastic steps clanking sound fairly natural, vs a cast platforms TINK.
However, I will say that the comfort level isn't quite on par with a platform for me. I sat 3 hours straight yesterday on the predator and never adjusted my tether once. I've done all day sits on steps, but it's just not as comfortable.