@Leigh: This is why I am looking specifically at the Mountainsmith line. They have the Strapette suspenders and I would definitely buy those to compliment.

1L is heavy, 2 lbs roughly, but its the same if in a camelbak or on your hips. Plus its a usable commodity not counted as pack weight.

Part of my inclination to the lumbar system now, is that I have got to a point where I can be UL (ultralight) if I want. I did a hard Grand Canyon hike two weeks ago and my base weight (minus food and water, and admittedly a tent) was under 4lbs. That includes my Go-Lite backpack.