I have 36H Dyads laced to XT hubs, built by Peter White. They are very good, bombproof touring rims, though I think probably more expensive than the CR18. The XT hubs are outstanding. Also, 135mm spaced hubs are supposed to build a slightly stronger wheel due to less dish compared to road hubs.

As for spreading...depends on the frame material and the bike. A steel frame should be okay, but you can't do it with carbon or Alu, from what I've read.