Bindings is an interesting issue.
Most skis are now coming equipped with a binding or are at least set up for a specific manufacturer. This is good for performance and convienient for the consumer, but now you have less choice (which can be bad).
e.g. Fischer and Head design their skis for Tyrolia bindings. Most of the high end models have the railflex system for Tyrolia, so one can't just slap on a Marker binding.
In my experience, my system works great and it made it easier for me, but it also gives the manufacturers and stores more opportunities to make some $$$$
since you're stuck with a certain model binding.
As for DIN settings, I've heard a number of things. Greg, I'm on a 7 setting as well and my DIN range goes from 3 to 11 or so on my bindings. DIN settings of 14 are for racers or folks who don't want to prerelease, so I doubt you'll need it. The good thing about having a higher DIN range is that I've heard the binding is a heavier duty model and may last longer. This last point is kind of irrelevant though given that integrated ski/binding technology is now forcing one to buy new bindings with those new skis