I havn't looked in protecting amino groups, but I will, one could also setup a hydrogen gen. Using HCL and zinc. I assume that when you say active Hydrogens you mean p-fed HCL. If that is true, the problem is one thing only. Protecting the amino group, and I am sure this can be done. When this is acheived, one may get meth that contains fewer impuries. This process may seem hard, but I belive that this method, can be done, once the process is studied, a direct syn can be made, which the RP/I method may become inferior to it. ADDkid.