you knew you were gonna get a 'studs or nothing' fest, right?

Define your concept of winter riding...it isn't the same for everyone. If you are wanting to ride on icy roads, I'd recommend studded tires, but I've managed to survive (barely) on inverted tread tires too. For snow, studs are not going to help much unless there is an icy base and they can bite into it through the snow, otherwise you'll want something knobby and low pressure (though opinions vary on whether wide or narrow work better). If you are only riding on clear roads, or light snow, the diamond treads might be ok.

Personally, if there is a chance of snow and ice, I'm usually on my bike with the studded tires, but my regular commuter with the Top Contacts get plenty of clear, dry day mileage in the winter too.