You and I have talked about this situation on several occasions, so I am all too well aware of your dilemma since the NYSE names is where you first learned your trade. I too, still have a certain fondness for the NYSE names since that is where you find the Homebuilders, Brokers, and Defense stocks that I enjoy trading. And yes, it can be a real bitch at times!
I think that you are right about taking a look at the ES.
May I suggest using REFCO's Pro-Trader Platform under their Velocit-Etrader deal where you are charged $4.00 all-inclusive, per round turn? The platform is rock solid, never goes down or has any glitches, not even on an FOMC fast market type of day.
It will also allow you to trade the ZB as well, which is probably the single best trading vehicle on this planet.