Perhaps after getting T2 out, you could make T2.1 that has options (say in gconf... which i cant find the .install for (a working one)) that lets you pick which way of opening you have. It'd be a bit of work but it'd keep everyone happy. Except super lazy people.
Can't wait! ALthough i don't like the 2 panels thing. I'm always on the arrow and I hate the arrow... Wish Diablo5 expanded the hildon bar.