Tell you what - you guys ought to go the Alt.food.barbecue ng. Think you will find some real advice and ideas.
Charcoal briquets DO have flavor - the flavor of petrolium, glue, saw dust, etc. Might as well use old motor oil. If you like it, go for it. Charcoal lump is something different, it that it is REAL charcoal.
However, the best is still good old fashioned wood that has been well cured (drying for at least a year).
Gas grills have their place - great for a quick job like grilling small steaks, chicken, maybe some veggies, etc; but that is about that is about it. There is nothing like a good (indirect fire) smoker.
Sorry to bust in on your cinversation, but as a long time pit master, just felt like I needed to say something to put you all on the right track