I use both cushions regularly, I prefer the Artemis if I'm doing a players table or doing rail extension work to tighten the pockets...You know, the big money job...:happydance: ... For standard pockets on most tables the $200 you save on the cushions can go along way for purchasing Simonis cloth or new pockets or other repairs that your table might need. If money is not an issue the Artemis is the best performing and longest lasting cushion you can buy. IMHO
The Diamond black cushion plays and installs very well and is a wonderful value. The Artemis has a little more solid feel on the multi bank shots.
The Diamond black is just as fast, but may play a hair shorter in some cases. As an overall they are very close in playing characteristics. I think the Artemis might be a better playing cushion 10-15 years down the road Artemis cushions are known to last. The Diamond black cushion may hold up just as well, but thats still remains to be seen.