samh,
This is not entirely correct. If the NEC switch has the ability to emulate a CO switch this is possible. I don't think it does, so in the end you are still correct.
Steve9999,
What problems are you having? You may be able to manipulate the channel configurations within the T1 to fix your problems. (ie. configure them as E&M trunks)
I know, not real helpful, but i tried.
Steve