hmmmm... I think I'm starting to come around, full-circle. Maybe
spinning around in circles is more like it... ;-)

I'm hearing a lot of valuable feedback, and it's got me leaning back
towards the IFR certified panel mount. It seems like that would
address the main weaknesses of my current configuration, and would be
in line with where the technology seems to be going.

Some other key factor to my current position "on the fence" a
1. Installation costs of something like a GNC300XL, as a few have
mentioned
2. Do I really plan to weave my way through serious T-Cells (not at the
moment)
3. One of the biggies - could I justify or afford the $50/mo. XM
subscription to take full advantage of the 396 (not at the moment ;-)

I really like the idea of having the handheld, and would probably be
happy with the features "out of the box", but at that point, it's
still, really just a "backup". Going with a GNS type of configuration
would add value to my plane and give me a much more current (looking
and functional) panel.

I'm still on the fence, and am not ready to pull the trigger just yet,
so I'll keep monitoring the discussions, as there seems to be a new
thread popping up every day!

Thanks again for the feedback!

Best Regards,
Todd