XJTGuy,

Thanks...your reply was awesome. I think I have enough data to go on. Mind you, the pilots I've met for both regionals have been exceptionally nice and professional. I personally have an affinity for the regional jets, my bank account on the other hand has issues. I can not fathom the responsibility shared by the Capt's and F.O.'s on the regional jet side, the training, blood sweat and tears to get to a 121 operation, and the insanely low pay scales, even after the first year. I hope that post August (ATP requirements etc.) and the regionals having to compete for the same pilots as the mainlines, that someone in the high clouds will re-evaluate the compensation thing for all regional folks, regardless of whether I'm still in it or not. I have a very high opinion of the regional pilots I've met and I appreciate everyones interest in helping to peel back some layers of the onion for us new guys to comprehend.