o.k...so do I understand this correctly Scotty?
-unlock bootloader---via the HTCDev website
-install recovery--via PC36IMG method or fastboot method <<<----probably easier
-flash superuser via recovery-- easy.
Then do method 2?
Basically rooting, then unrooting, then ruu.
By the way, THANKS for hopping in here guys!!!
you are correct there mikey.....in order to use one of the earlier ruu's we need to gain root first, downgrade the hboot, and then use one of the ruu's.....unfortunately.