Quite right, I see our two options as trying to butter opposite sides of the same slice of toast...

I brought up the examples of the Clipper and Playboy to show what CAN happen if you don't approach these mods in an educated manner. As you say there were many designs that were quite extreme in their layouts where one element supported another element in a delicate balance that was all aimed at one flight goal. To change elements of that balance without a full appreciation of the factors can often make for a very dissappointing outcome. Of course avoiding the more extreme designs in favour of the semi scale types like the Brigadier can greatly help avoid such calamities.

What you describe about your Brigadier makes perfect sense for the thankfully common old timer cabin semi scale type models if you're not bound by the need to stick with the SAM rules about modifying the model design. There were many that follow that pattern and will respond wonderfully to what you described. I just wanted to bring up that it IS possible to live with the original design and original trim if the SAM restrictions require it and still end up with a fine flying model.

I've got plans here for the Modelcraft Pacific Ace that I plan on electrifying as a sport model one day. I'll be cutting the dihedral in half for that one just as you suggested for appearance reasons mostly but this one is for ME rather than any contest work so I don't mind "improving" it.

And in the end anything that brings another Old Time design into the world is a great way to beautify the skies....