Well, the diode didn't work out so well. The lights were just as bright and, as Hero mentioned, they did have a bit of a flicker to them. I got a package of diodes from my local Radio Shack (276-1653) which included a 1N4007. I can live with the flicker, unless it means the bulbs will die sooner than expected. Would more than 1 diode in series be any better? Thanks! ~Dave