Generally I don't like my bars higher than the seat. However, some do. Set up your bike as you want it. If you have to have too tall of a stem, perhaps a larger frame would be better, or more of an "Endurance" geometry.

One other thing to keep in mind, the "Compact" bars can have somewhat less bar drop than other types of handlebars. Thus you might only need to raise them up half as much.=

Also look at other touring bar types. Butterfly, Moustache, Bullhorn, and those with the angled outward drops.