I am a new rider, but I did spend a good deal of time trying out several bikes. This forum is great for info.
I am 5'7" with long legs (inseam 34") and ended up with a Bianchi Eros 56 cm (it has a triple and Campy). My budget was set lower than yours,and I did try both the bikes you mentioned and liked both of them very much. I just got a good deal on the Eros.
I will add two points to the other great advice already given. Ride the bikes for at least 5 miles and try a hill. My LBS recommended, when seeing me on the bike, that I go with a 56 even though it seemed by measuring me that I needed the lower size. They were right. The 56 definitely felt better when I took it out for a "test drive."
Good luck!