Does anyone have info on when these will start shipping?

I've only seen online in europe.
You could order one from here (http://www.roseversand.de/output/controller.aspx?cid=156&detail=10&detail2=9829). They have a nice range of complete 3n71 wheels too.

from that site:

"ATTENTION: To avoid steady light you require a flashlight with switcher!"

wtf does that mean?

Might mean your light will always be on unless you have a switch?

Exactly. You need to excuse the poor translation, but dynamo lights are available both with and without a switch. People who use a sidewall generator do not need a switched headlight.

My thoughts on the 3n80:

From that German link, it's $20 more than the 3n71.
36 holes only? Fine for heavy touring, but most mid-duty rims are 32 holes.

Also I've heard the bearing races and cones are on par with Ultegra or XT level. Does this mean I can repack the bearings in shimano 3nxx dynamo hubs just like my shimano road hubs?