I am a former eSignal user and concur with your finding that eSignal comes up short. As a side note on TT, I use TT X_Trader and X_Study (for backup charting) as well. For execution platform and real time data feed, X_Trader is indeed considered by many, especially spread traders, as the 'gold standard.' Others may consider Ninja+ZenFire the gold standard. However, X_Study charting and the associated historical data feed is a new product and definitely not a gold standard. The historical data in particular is hit or miss depending upon the specific broker's implementation of historical data servers, etc.
Ok, when did you discovered that eSignal comes up short. A lot of people use eSignal because they think it's one of the best. True, X_Study is very basic but the speed is great and also user friendly. What kind of system do you use for charting?