I find if you just maximize the dock (SHIFT+D) you can still have access to the control bar and have the prv in large scale. you only gain an inch of real estate. but BJ has a good idea there. that's what I do when I have large chords that need an extra inch. Speaking of needing an extra inch...
when you work in the PRV your 2 favorite shortcuts should be SHIFT+D and D.
get to know them, embrace them, love them as they were your own.