Hi there,
I must admit, I use clinchers on my cross bike, but have heard that tubs provide a better ride, albeit expensive, and as you say, a pain in the butt to mount.
There's a good cross site called
http://www.cyclo-cross.com that may be able to advise you to any cross queries..
I hope to ride cross in Holland next season, could you recommend any races to attend?
Cheers
Rich