SD IRA vs. Traditional for Palladium - Anyone Regret Their Choice?

• •Okay, so I've been wrestling with this decision for a bit now and could really use some real-world input.
• •Based out here in Dublin, OH, it just made sense to diversify Hard.
• •The move itself was a no-brainer, but now I'm second-guessing setting up with a traditional IRA custodian rather than going the self-directed route.

Okay, so I've been wrestling with this decision for a bit now and could really use some real-world input. When I finally liquidated my tech startup last year, a significant chunk of my portfolio went straight into a Gold IRA, with a decent slug of that allocated to physical palladium bars. Based out here in Dublin, OH, it just made sense to diversify Hard. The move itself was a no-brainer, but now I'm second-guessing setting up with a traditional IRA custodian rather than going the self-directed route.

My current custodian is fine, I guess. They handle everything, which was appealing at the time because, honestly, after years of 80-hour weeks, the last thing I wanted was more paperwork and decision-making. But there are times, particularly with palladium's volatility and the premium discussions I see here, that I feel a bit… detached. I'm essentially relying on their approved dealers, their storage, and their preferred ways of doing things. I’m talking about a seven-figure sum here, and while I trust them not to screw me over, I wonder if a self-directed IRA would have given me more control and potentially better pricing on future purchases or even options for things like leasing, which I know is a whole other ball game but still.

Anyone here with a significant palladium holding (or even gold/silver) go with a traditional custodian and later regret not choosing a self-directed option? Or, conversely, did you go self-directed and wish you'd just let someone else handle the logistics? I’m thinking about the hassle factor, the cost difference for storage and transactions, and most importantly, the psychological aspect of having more direct oversight. My biggest fear is looking back in 5-10 years and realizing I missed out on better opportunities or paid higher fees because of my initial choice to go "easy."

I’m particularly interested in hearing from anyone who made the switch (either direction) and why. Was it worth the headache (or lack thereof)? What hidden costs or benefits did you discover? I'm trying to decide if the peace of mind of 'set it and forget it' is worth the potential trade-offs in flexibility and cost. Appreciate any insights.