I like the alternate monitor idea alot. I am able to control my components behind the screen with an IR remote setup I put together when I was planning the front projection system.
My screen comes down to with in 18" of the floor so keeping the preamp low isn't a possible solution.
To clarify one point, the video conversion isn't a desire of mine since I already have that capability, what I need is component switching. The conversion just came about because the only preamps that offer OSD through component outputs are those with video conversion.
I do have room to move the preamp outside of what the screen covers, this might look a little odd when the screen is up but it would slove the problem of being able to see the adjustments I'm making. Does the 950 have a dimming feature for it's display??
Thanks to all for all of your input, it is greatly appreciated.