Yes, he will actually turn one out in about 24 hours if you ask.
It's only when you add two external touch monitors does it become cumbersome but still easier to single hand program than an MA.
I personally have always hated the Hog2 and actually fought against someone providing it on shows I was programming. I would pick a Virt, Spark, Pearl, or Diamond back in the days before Hog3.
I even opposed the Hog3 until I discovered the EDITOR.
Honestly, the editor in hog3 is the only reason I love it over any other desk. I believe it is that editor that makes the hog3 far superior to any other desk including and especially hog2.
I design custom automation devices and the only other desks besides hog2 that are fast and reliable for users writing reliable libraries are AVO desks which I don't mind but don't offer the complexity I desire.
Being a hog3 expert and knowing all about these little bugs, I will agree with you completely.