So in your mind it would be better if I used a super-efficient cooler? You do realize that the core temps would have very little difference between TIM products at that point, right?

Right now I can see a difference in products by almost 1~2 degrees using the overclocked P4 at 3.61 GHz and a stock cooler. If I used your suggestion, I would see .1~.2 difference, and reduce the consistancy in TIM amounts because of enlarged surface. It wouldn't be feasable to use an after-market cooler with this kind of test, because the mounting method would come into play.