King Kahuna build advice

[KeepItSteel]

As far as 8 vs 9 speed stuff goes, I'm leaning more towards the 9 speed 952 than 8 speed 9 950 as it looks pretty similar and good 9 speed stuff is much easier to obtain, and I ride my bikes, so stuff eventually wears out.

I agree, but does anyone know if there is a difference in the quality of shifting if you dont go for 8 speed rings up front? I know the difference is 8 speed uses a slightly thicker chain.
Middleburn state 8/9 speed compatibility on their rings whereas the majority of others state 8 or 9 speed - makes me a bit paranoid

 

[OldFatTi]

I run 8 spd, changed to a 9-spd chainset and noticed no deterioration in running or shifting. Maybe even slightly better due to better new rings.