I will add another vote for direct pull 'V' style brakes, even though OP said he doesn't want to. The function and ease of setup is far superior to centre-pull cantis, where the geometry change in the straddle cable as the brake is actuated actually reduces power the harder you pull the lever, while linear pull brakes are... well, linear.

You can also get 'mini Vs' if you are staying with narrower road tires and not planning on fitting fenders. These have all the benefits of full-size Vs but they work with the same levers as canti brakes (almost all drop bar levers are perfect).

On the other hand, one of the main advantages of canti brakes is the large amount of clearance for fatter tires and fenders. If that is a commuter or town bike and you are planning on mounting fenders (you should) then cantis are probably a better choice.