I much prefer the set-up you are considering over the single-line systems and/or the mast cleat. As crew, I find I get the cleanest hoist when each foot of halyard I pull equals one foot of sail up the mast - the single-line systems trade some of that out by pulling out the tack at the same time. I also, like others, feel that you get more sail shape control by having a seperate tack line.

I don't much like the cleat on the mast arrangements I have seen so far - they can come uncleated going upwind when the crew is crossing the tramp and trips the tail... On boats that have cleats on the front beam, I get the same hoists that Jake describes by standing and pulling straight down on the halyard. The continuous line is pulling the slack through the cleat and out the sock as I hoist, and I have my head up, looking forward as the 'chute sets. With a marked halyard and your head up, it is easy to know when you're just about done - crouch to pull the last foot of slack through the cleat (you have to get back down to the tramp anyway now) and the spinnaker sheet is right there waiting for you... like an old friend... an old friend that wants to play... and crush your hand if you take a wrap for a rest... <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif" alt="" />

All that said, I really think it is a matter of preference. There are champions that use every style I have ever seen. My new boat has the cleat on the mast - I'm not willing to move it to the beam until I have tried it out a few times first... get my first chance this weekend. <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />