I have a wheelset built with Phil Hubs and Velocity Deep V rims.. they are definately stiff..24 bladed spokes front and rear, front is radial and rear is 2 cross. THey are still true after 2 years. I personaly like the look of high flange hubs, but it is a personal choice. Not many can say they have had a bad experience with phil hubs. Yes they are expensive but how many years will you have them? And I just try to stay away from Shimano hahaha Just would not go right with the campagnolo cranks.