so, can you run slic3r or cura directly to the printer from linux ? Given that they won't communicate in windows.

Ubuntu will easily dual boot with windows. so that's not a problem.

Might this be an easier route to breaking free of makerware than the whole slic3r/gcode/gpx/x3g route ?
You got me thinking now :-)

Damn, might have to switch my 64gb ssd for a 128.