For posterity, here is the workaround I devised.

Boot to Vista without TR8M plugged in. Install software RAID for Sans Digital (note UAC must be turned off or install software outside of Program Files folder); configure RAID array. Partition Disks. Good to go. (Not sure if I can restart with TR8M plugged in but if not no problem to unplug and then plug back in after Vista boots). At least I did not have to risk a Bios upgrade.