Svenfly,
Sorry if im late..
In order to get a JAR ATPL you need the 14 exams(unless exempted as written above),the radiotelephony licence(easy exam)and do either:a type rating (you will then get a unrestricted ATPL) or a CPL(hours to test as required by school)plus you have to go through a IR flying course which includes a minimum of hours(i believe its 15or 35,not sure)
If you chose the first option,youll do 3 tests in one observed by the CAA(not a designated one as you have in the USA)which include Instrument rating test/ATPL skill test/Type rating test.
If you chose option two:youll do a CPL skill test(VFR)and a Instrument rating skill test.Both will cost as much as a type rating..so its up to you to decide..
I went for a type rating but no hours on it doesnt help at all..
Since you have time on the CRJ..you may do ,i think,an abriviated course to be granted your faa type on your JAA licence.
Hope that helps,
Safe flying,
M.85
from what i wrote above im sure you understand you cant have a frozen atpl just by sitting the exams..
Youll still have to do the appropriate skill tests.
Avrodriver,
Yes the base flight is in the actual aircraft..quite fun but EXPENSIVE..