So from this link below am I right in thinking my exchange doesn't have LLU for orange broadband, my current provider. But Be does have it.
Orange stopped using LLU.
Technically LLU means that the ISP takes your connection onto their own network earlier than they would otherwise, at the local exchange <5 miles away rather than at one of 12 or so regional centres (Known as a RAS).
For us users it doesn't make much of a difference but there are a couple of points to be aware of:
1. As LLU is at the exchange it can provide the slightly faster ADSL2+ rather than the usual ADSL Max (usually marketed as 'Up to 20Mbps' and 'Up to 8Mbps' respectively).
2. Because ISPs can tailor their networks to their customers and may have newer, more efficient technology LLU packages are often cheaper, especially for low capacity users.
Note that some of the LLU options listed on Samknows (e.g. Zen) are only for one or two test exchanges and won't affect the packages that ISP will offer you.
Your exchange is packed full of technology and you have, in practical terms, everything enabled (except virgin cable) so I'd advise you to just forget all this and pick the package most suited to you.
Be's line checker says my expected speed would be 3Mb. Christ thats crap.
Those estimates are pessimistic for obvious reasons, they all use the same technology though so assuming you're currently on ADSL you'll not get a maximum speed lower than you currently have (or higher, unless you're on ADSL Max and switch to ADSL2+ or FTTC). Obviously your practical speed may vary a little depending on traffic levels but it's unlikely to be enough to pick one ISP over another for.