mstram,
You are absolutely correct in what you say - for a pilot with an established degree of competence and, most importantly, capacity. No doubt about it that preparation will reduce ‘heads in’ time.
Please remember though that I was specifically referring to new guys starting out, trying to master the basics (the original point of the thread), not to more advanced and seasoned pilots. Naturally, being adept with your aircraft’s avionic fit will always help to increase your overall SA and should be encouraged – however, not at the expense of the basics for the new guys!
GM