HI Jeff,
My position is what ever it takes to get through the first 100 hours is what I will do. I understand your point about listening while the process is going on. I agree. If this is a persons first time through the break-in process it is educational to hear the progress. Even I will listen during break-in. But it is kind of like waiting for water to boil. You know the saying that a watched pot never boils?
Another, unstated, part of your point is the panels are not horrible even out of the box. I agree with that too. But, you need to understand my position.
Stated simply, it's very hard to be enthusiastic about new panels if they represent a definite sonic step backwards in my system. Geez, it may take another 15 years before the new panels sound as good as the old panels. Oh well, that's the cost of living with the cranky CLS's. The rewards are definitely worth the irritation. I want to listen to glorious sounds rather than judging if my panels are finally sounding good. It's a process I would never waste my tubes or stylus or CD player on. Using the receiver is a practical answer.
I'm still interested in hearing from other CLS veterans concerning the continuous changing of the panels. I think I will post the question so it will be seen.
Sparky