converting recessed lighting to pendant

One of the many things that drives me nuts about our apartment is the recessed lighting in our dining room and entry. I knew there were conversion kits, but the thought of messing with wires freaked me out, so I've just learned to live with these uglies in our home. BUT, while I was flipping through the Ballard catalog the other day I pretty much jumped for joy when I found out there is an easier way! They sell adapters that you just screw into the recessed lighting! Are these new, or am I just the last person to find out about them?
I'm purchasing the natural linen for our dining room, and if I like it, I'm purchasing a smaller one in seagrass for the entry.