Is there a way to trick the Android Market into thinking I'm using a different device do I can download protected apps?
Yes, it can be done but it requires root.  You edit the device fingerprint in the build.prop file.  Here are details: http://androidforums.com/samsung-galaxy-spica/98024-protected-app-market-fix-tutorial-build-prop.html

Edit: For a more complete answer, see How can I modify the phone model in build.prop to get unsupported apps?