1. Tony stands aside his products proudly. I would go with these. I have only heard good things around here regarding these.
2. Spend the $50 if you have already deemed the other option as "foul weather." You have already made up your mind from what I can tell. It would be a good choice.

For what it is worth, NYCBikes is not the manufacturer. I know they have a semi-bad rap around here. I cannot attest one way or the other on this though. I do know, however, they sell the same inexpensive hub that many other shops also sell.
QBP also sells pre-built Suzue ones to MA3 rims for $100-ish. I do not think it is worth the money if you are serious about this bike set-up. They are loose bearing hubs that have not-so-great bearing races. This is problematic if you ride a lot and do little maintenance. It is about knowing your options, and I think you are off to a good start.

I find the $50 extra is $50 well spent in this case. Go the way of IRO.
Buy it once, buy it right.