zona and inkista, thanks for your input...muchos gracias!
I think I'm leaning toward the RadioPoppers -- getting the JrX Basic for $119.95 + one additional receiver. I figure I can upgrade the receivers to the Studio version if and when the cube comes out, and by then hope to find a used 550EX or 580EX (the 580EX II is still beyond my budget) to serve as a master to my 430EX II. I'm remotely concerned however that RP won't be able to make a cube for Canon Speedlites, as I've seen a number of references to people who've been able to DIY a cube with the Nikons but, to date, no one has been able to do this with a Canon Speedlite. OTOH, a lot of what I'm reading on strobist.com and other sites suggests that most people don't care much about having the TTL function and prefer to work in strictly manual mode. I think I'm over-analyzing all of this. I just need to whip out the plastic and buy something without worrying so much about buyer's regret afterward...
