i've ridden the "special" version for 6+ years now, on my 3rd pair. Pretty tough pedals, i like them a lot and do no maintenance except the occasional shot of lube. cleats are all compatible with shimano, ritchey, wtb, whoever makes "spd comp" pedals.
Welcome to clipless. You're gonna have some embarrasing crashes and tip-overs, but you'll never go back!
cheers