I have to say, that after a lot of research, I just sprung for PW Plus II's. The biggest reason is that they will be compatible with their eTTL system when they get the bugs sorted out, and most importantly, I can remote trigger the camera too. (think creative lighting!)
Still, IMO, PW's are a bit of a ripoff, because for such a plasticky thing, they're very, very expensive. They do however seem to be absolutely reliable, and more ubiquitous. I am definitely not sorry, I paid for the best that I could find for my needs, and I think it will last me quite a while...
My kit is very similar to yours BTW. So ultimately I bought a strobist one light kit to go with my 430EXII and a convertible umbrella etc. I can now add lights and accessories pretty easily.
My advice and practice is to pay for the best and cry once. I almost always regret compromising on equipment. (my Canon 70-300 III is one regret, I should have jus picked up a 70-200 f/4L!)
Oh, and yes, I happily ditched eTTL. It tells way too many lies. I think I want it back though if for nothing else than to set slave ratios from the camera and to get High Speed Sync back on my remote(s). I really hope PW fixes their Mini tt1/tt5 products!
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