Thanks, Richard.
As I occasionally like to play fast (Irish session for instance) it probably wouldn't suit me. As you say rebushing is just a minor thing.

Guran,
Your ideas generally excite me. I'm all for experimentation and progress and I wish you well with your project. Let us know how you are getting on. If you're ever in my neck of the woods (Hull) or at Whitby Festival please let me know as I'd like to see some of your efforts.

Weight does mean a lot to me, not just for carrying as I often stand up to play, but I do a lot of swinging about and 'bellowsing'. I have also considered getting padded straps like those on the Chemnitzers.

As for different systems. If I was starting out I would probably go for a duet of some sort, McCann or Hayden, but I'm too used to push/pull now and too old to change.