I definitely know all about the 8/9 setup did a ton of research on it as I was searching for the bits.
The reason they are not direct is the part that bolts to the hub is much larger on the evo (so there is need for spacers) and pretty sure the bolts are larger too.

I am hoping that through watching your progress and reading all of this I will get an understanding of what exactly is needed for a proper setup.

I think that's the way something like this needs to be done! Then you can make sure you are doing things proper without worrying about a budget!