Lock 45,
Variable transformers work good, but they are heavy. We use triac and scr based controls on very high horsepower motor starters. They are just a tad bigger.
About the only neg about a dimmer is that it can mess up the radio. Wait a minute, I have teenage boys, maybe that's a plus.
Here's some links
1200 Watt Lamp/Frying pan dimmer circuit.
http://home.cogeco.ca/~rpaisley4/x1200WControl.html
600w - 2400 w dimmers (commercial)
http://www.pcslighting.com/UPBWallMount.htm
