I like the new rating system, but the ratings tags should be made smaller in forum listings

[Maven]

i.e., just put a smaller colored box with an abbreviation of the rating ("MR," "R," "D," etc.) so it's not such a distraction. You could use mouseover tips to show the full meaning of the rating for those who don't yet know, and you could still use the full size tags in the post itself.

Just my $0.02.

[trotsky]

1. Totally agree.

Don't even know if the abbreviation is necessary. Just a small colored box. Put a key to the colors at the top of the listing.

[Tindalos]

2. The colour boxes draw my eye more than the thread titles.

It's a bit distracting. I like the new system, but agree with you that they could be smaller.

[Maven]

3. Exactly - I actually had trouble finding my own post again!

Had to go to My DU.

[magellan]

4. I'm giving it a go as is

...even though my first reaction was the same as yours, the tag could be smaller. I like your mouseover idea.

To be completely honest I'd also prefer it over on the right where the rec column was before, but my minor complaints will vanish once I get used to it. I really like the new rating system overall.