> As for the beef with switchers, there's generally a higher part count
> associated with them

That can be true. It is also the case that a switcher may have about
the same number of components as a properly set up linear regulator,
about 4-6. For example, an input cap, a small inductor, an output
cap, the IC itself, maybe a couple of resistors to set the voltage if
necessary. That's about it

One major advantage is that in some situations they can get power
from places that a linear just can't reach

> I'm thinking another solution would be to use a 5 volt LDO

There may be something here that you can use/adapt

http://home.clear.net.nz/pages/joecolquitt/ldo1.gif

http://home.clear.net.nz/pages/joecolquitt/ldo2.gif

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