That's a nice chip, I was aware of it's cousin the 74LVC16245 but this is more flexible.
One "problem" is that it's a wide package it won't fit where Crossroads has the TXB chips but that's easily fixed.
each pin's output voltage can be selected
Are you suggesting
|---5v buffer
SAM---switch---|
|---3v3 buffer
That way you could select 5v or 3v3 for each pin but you'd have to double the headers wouldn't you?
If not can you provide a drawing.
Also, why do you think this would be too expensive?
I was referring to the crosspoint switch, they used to be quite expensive but I've just found it for $3.04 1-off so that's pretty good.
Rob