MOTM

>a) investigating color-coded (by length) custom, *high-end* patch cords.
>About $15-$20 ea, but we are talking Mogami cable/Neutrik plugs. These
>pups will last 30 years. I don't expect to hear back until 2-3 weeks 
>(these folks are s*l*o*w). I will try to get the best deal I can.

Since this is a DIY list, how about selling cable kits? Neutrik 1/4"
TRS plugs are only $2.25 each in bulk, so even less for the TS plugs.
And Mogami single pair cable is only $.18-.22 per foot.  So for less
than $5 everyone could make their own high quality cables.

-Cary