My theory is keep it simple. So I use what Melabs gives with PBP3, the MCSX. When I was using ICD3 as a programmer, I just loaded the hex file in MPLAB8.xx and programed the chip.

Now I find Pickit2 or 3 much more easy to use, specially with the stand alone program.

Out of curiosity, I wonder what MPLABX can offer more as na IDE. Please elaborate on this if you have the time.

Ioannis