The short answer is:

bigger gear inches = faster bike (but harder to pedal)
smaller gear inches = slower bike (but easier to climb)

Gear inches translates how big the equivalent wheel would be on an old school penny-farthing. A smaller wheel is going to be easier to pedal than a larger wheel. The triple-crank is giving you a wider range of "wheel sizes", so to speak. (Again, I really like the idea of a compact double on a proper road bike, but not necessarily on my weighted-down commuter.)

I'm poor, so the regular Coda (especially on sale) would be my pick. The components on the regular Coda aren't junk. Every new bike will need to have its cables adjusted as they stretch, etc. And you can always upgrade as you build a relationship...

If you can afford the Bianchi and it's calling out to you, maybe that's what you should go with.

And I think you've nailed it when it comes to the appeal of fixed/ss, btw. It's NOT the same as riding in the same gear... especially when you're tired and there's a hill up ahead!