I am a T8/T9 implantee of Boston Sci paddles for leg symptoms. My implant was done June 30 and since then I have fully withdrawn from opiods and use only the stim to control pain, inclusive of flares I have experienced. I think Tchr012 is the only person I am aware of who has experienced both company products [and she has just received her new implant so has no lengthy experience by which to compare]. Read her threads, and you may get a feel for the answers you seek.
Nonetheless, my prayers are with you for a good trial on 25 Jan.!
Mark56