As I read through this thread I was wondering when someone was going to ask the amperage. I also wondered where the first replier came up with 50 amps/6 wire with the only spec being given was 220 volts.
I am on the other side when it comes to 14 wire/15 amp circuits. Why do you guys hate them so? There is absolutely no way anyone can tell me that using #12 is safer, which I do get from time to time. Properly sized and logically loaded circuits are safe no matter what guage/breaker size.
You obviously don't do many multi gang boxes with dimmers or 4 ways very often. If I was told I had to do all my residential lighting wiring in #12 I would refuse the job. The thought of a 4 gang box with 3 dimmers and a 4-way in there (very common), in all #12 is frightening.
Is box fill an issue for you as well. I sometimes get close to full with 14 in switch boxes. With 12 it would be out of the question.
You all must love carrying around those 120 pound 1000' spools of 12/3.:cheesygri