Quark Programming Capabilities

[Re~Mix]

Currently I'm running a Quark 33amp Pro Car ESC in my rc18t with the mamba 5400kv motor on 7 Nimh cells. I'm looking into lipo mainly for the run times and well, just because i like to be on the curve of upcoming technology. However, it is a major p.i.t.a to program this little bugger. So i was wondering if there exists a programming cable or some trick that might allow me to program the lvc?

Also, I know lipo chargers are popping up everywhere, but have they gotten that adapter so that all Nimh chargers can do it (I thought some company was working on this). I'm using a Novak Ionic 2 that I love for its ease of use, however, I could be persuaded to change if necessary.

As far as lipo packs, what am I looking at. I don't think I want to go more than 3s and I don't want to modify the stock chassis. Are taps and a balancer really necessary?