Hi John don't despair! I do like new technology, the 225 is one of the most advanced civil helis in terms of its electronics and especially the autopilot and I love it! I just think we have to be careful not to add technology for the sake of it, but only where a clear need or benefit can be demonstrated. As a pilot not paying for the machine, I don't see cost reduction as a need or benefit!
EC have been developing some very clever AFCS functionality which might be considered pretty close to your "FBW with wires inside the control rods" - ie all the advantages of pilot control detachment from swash plate, flight envelope control etc but retaining the ultimate backup of rods. So much easier to certify!