Thanks for the reply and info Tzvia! I wasn't aware of the special tool and cost to maintain the CK hubs, so that's some new info to consider. Also, I'm not too crazy about the 'angry bee' noise of the CK hubs. Do you know of any problems with the Swiss DT hubs? (the other brand I'm considering)

I'll probably go for 28 holes and 2X lacing for front and back since I already have a lightweight Easton (Velomax) wheelset with the low spoke count you mentioned.

Thanks so much!