I have set up several bikes with 9-speed and barends. Although I run them in SIS, I have tried them in friction and they work fine once you get the hang of it, but I still prefer indexed.

A couple of thoughts -- go with 9-speed indexed barends and you can always run them friction if you want.

Most of the Shimano road RDs will handle up to 28, which I found to be a plenty low gear with a compact. If you really want a 30t gear, you will have to go with a long cage. I have used both a 105 RD with a long cage and Deore XT. I also suggest you go with a fairly modern RD, you know, something manufactured in the last 15 years. Such RDs can be had fairly cheaply on CL or the Bay.