A fine review, thanks. I would just like to add two points with respect to the E-3's controls.
First, you can assign either the Main or Sub dial to set exposure compensation in all modes except manual where you do not need it. I have my E-3 set up that way and it is an easy one-step process to just turn the dial (you do not have to press the +/- button) to adjust exposure compensation.
Second, you can set a delay so that you can press and release the appropriate button and then adjust the parameter using the Main or Sub dials (you can assign which dial for most parameters). For example, you can press the meter button release it and change the metering with the assigned dial. This eliminates the need for contortions.