I haven't really completely dove into 4E yet, but the more you write about it, the more interesting it becomes. However, I don't think I'm likely to change my mind about my favorite system of magic/mages anytime soon. Mage: the Ascension/Awakening is the gold standard in the gaming industry, IMO.

Tangentially, I love your description of Elminster's class choices. It's funny because it's true.