There are just so many mouthpiece experts that produce improved versions 0f metal and rubber links, or produce accurate replicas of original links that it is worth concluding that modern versons leave a lot to be desired and are not of a very consistent quality.
There are also alarge number of high quality mouthpieces out there, which were not available in times of yore, which are probably of far better quality overall. Some older saxes are thought to have a special sound, but I think that we have to be careful not to glorify such vintage items. I've never particularly wanted a Link, but have tried an STM on both Tenor and Alto. and thought that they were passable, not awesome. My teacher used to play a Link Tone Edge rubber, but was happier with his new Jody Jazz HR mouthpiece.
Of interest might be a 9 Tenor Sax Mouthpiece Poll on Steve Neff's wesite, which had a modern Link votes last. If you Google "Steve Neff Poll of 9 Tenor Mouthpieces" you will be able to access sound clips etc. The modified Link mpcs do better than the Modern one - so it may be worth looking up some of the replica or reworked Links if you have to have one.