You don't like the magnetic timeline in FCPX? No worries, just "Connect" your clips to the Primary Storyline - using "Q", instead of using Insert ("W".)
All clips brought into the Timeline with "Connect" stay relative to their position. The vertical line at the beginning of each clip represents the "anchor" or connection.
Neat. Less aggravation.
Update (May):
I now use the Magnetic Timeline more and more and I like it. Combined with Secondary Storylines, it works great.
I also use the Position Tool ("P") in the Primary Storyline in order to move clips without the magnetic behavior. That too works great.
I would like to be able to connect clips to Secondary Storylines though, not just the Primary as is only possible at this time. Apple?
