lesser midlayer?

I guess I should have kept my R.5s

The MEC T2 base layers is slightly lighter weight than a Cap4. It is a grid fleece and fairly warm. There is also the MEC T3 which is slightly ligher than an R1 but heavier than a Cap 4 and a VEGA jacket which is slightly heavier than an R1.

I use it as a base layer for hiking around freezing. Weight is 180g for medium although MEC often under estimates weight. I haven't weighed mine (Blasphamy).

I am interested in that Power Dry High Effiency Cap 4 but not for the price!

If you can get your hands on a MEC T2, I think it fits the requirements very well. I understand its the cap 4 fabric in a slightly lighter version. Mine seems to perform well. I paid $25 for a hoodie.

Another option for less-cold conditions is the Rab Boreas. My size large weighs 8.9oz on my scale.

MEC looks nice but won't it cost a bunch for shipping and I still have to pay to join?

Not sure, Brett. I did the group buy a bit back.

I love my new Patagonia Micro-D fleece. It's much warmer than what you're looking for and much warmer than your R1 but the weight is 8oz. That kind of warmth-to-weight ratio might win you over, so I'm mentioning it.

Someone else here recommended it to me and I haven't taken it off since the day I got it.

I am thinking of something I can wear over a base layer T and that will not be form fitting and fit a nice gap until I want to put my R2 on.

How do you organize a group buy? I may be willing to do it, as I'm heading up to Vancouver, BC in a month. If it's not too complicated, and I don't have to buy everything with my own money up front, then I could probably do it.

Edit:
I read Konrad's group buy post from when he ordered online. I'll be going to the physical store in Vancouver, BC (I think they have 2 MECs, one in Vancouver and another in north Vancouver. I'll be going to the one in Vancouver (the more southern location). Whatever I did pick up for people would be limited to what they have in stock December 6-8 at that location.