I always say ADSL is better than dial-up, in that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages.
Dial-up:
* Approximately $40 for unlimited everything
* Phone line being taken up
* 25c per dial up
* Could get disconnected
* Computer freezes a lot and having to re-dial again
* Stupid modem dialing noise
* In the end it could cost $60+ if you are a high internet user
ADSL:
* Phone line not taken up
* Line filters required
* Expensive modem required
* contract
* Connection fee required
* Up to $60+ per month depending on plan
* No call costs/no worries about computer freezing
* FAST! downloads
Looking at them both, initially ADSL is a hell of a lot more expensive, but in the long term, you will find it's far more convenient. If you use the net a lot, ADSL is definitely the best way. You could even save money depending on how much you spend on dialling up.
True that you still pay more for ADSL over dial-up, but realistically you are only paying like $10-$20 extra per month for something that is a hell of a lot better.
I'm currently with Internode ADSL flatrate and i have to say their service is excellent. I might end up switching to Ozforces depending on whether the admin will let me have it cheaper