I am sorry to rewake this old tread, but since the problems are still very much there I think it is probably necessary.
In my opinion the Render Mesh modifiers trump live sync any day
I couldn't agree more. If total live sync is sooo important than why not make at least make an option for the user to chose. I don't mind pressing the synchronize buttons from time to time if I could get some features that are obviously problematic to implement otherwise.
Please do not sacrifice features just for the uncompromised dogma of total live sync.
Andreas