Righto, Thanks for the info Skybird. I think it's time to brake out my little plastic friend and order the bugger.
Edit: I forgot to add that I have a Saitek X52 so as soon as I get a handel on things I'll be sure to post info on it here.
Edit 2: (11/06)Came though the post on Friday when out at work. Been learning it in between the world cup games and so far very happy, just the kind of thing I'm looking for. Been working on a profile for the x52 but it's going to take a little while as it's the first time I've had to do it from scratch and I want to make it as ergonomic and logical as I can.