I dont know. Pivx is the best "Proof of Stake" coin around. I dont like the masternodes as well, but it seems they are not needed for consensus. They just offer the service of instant transation.
I dont understand you conern about the privacy. privacy based on zero knowledge is pretty bad ass. Okay, the community has to make a sacrifice in comfort. Not everything works as it should. In return you get something that is up to date with the latest cryptography.