So not sure what you used previously for powersteering but one thing I have always liked is the feel of a manual rack, but that as you mentioned requires a specific balance to everything to be manageable over a longer stint.
I went to a remote powersteering pump on my '04, what I liked was with it being an electric pump you can effectively wire it to provide a variable amount of pump power to make it feel and be less assisted. I did also add a quickener to the steering column so that added some resistance so it could have played a role in how much I enjoy the feel. Just something to think about if your going back to powersteering.