MM,
Wow man thanks. I can't say I completely understand everything you've said as my electronic engineering knowledge is both dated and hazy. However, I do greatly appreciate the input and I'll make a point to look into that solution. I'm still waiting on my model to show up from Japan so I have a few days to investigate your suggestion, if not for this model then the next.
Of course I would gladly welcome schematics of your idea here so that I could better understand them (and let's be honest here - use it).
In any event, I greatly appreciate the input. Thanks.