I'm toying with the idea of a new, lighter pair of MTB wheels. The stock wheels are WTB Speeddiscs with Shimano LX hubs. I'm looking to accomplish 2 things: lighter overall and faster engagement. I'm tired of the delay in the freehub when trying to clear obstacles.

I'm not real keen on factory-built wheels. The retro-grouch in me likes old-fashioned handbuilts. The rims will likely be Mavic 717s. I'm lost when it comes to hub selection though.

I was thinking XT M775s, but I don't know if their engagement is any faster than the LXs. The Pure XCR hubs that Bicycle Wheel Warehouse sells appeal to me, but I don't know much about servicing them or longevity. Chris Kings and DT 240s just aren't in the budget. Any suggestions for a reasonbly light, reasonably priced hub with a nice quick engagement?