BDop, personal preference aside, what is that makes an Ultegra cassette that much better than a Tiagra cassette? I have been running the 4600 12-30 and it seems like a fine ride. 1,500 miles or so and still shifts great.
I have used a Nashbar 9 speed cassette, busting a tooth, and my guads are not that impressive. The guys at Performance said that the Nashformance brand is made by the same manufacturer. I have always been curious about Miche but have no experience with them.