Faber helped me out a lot when I first joined here, seemed like a good guy. I noticed he disappeared too, he needs to get back on here!
As far as ApeX vs. Liberty it goes to what Sims said, user preference. I liked both a lot, but to me on my phone it seemed like ApeX was more stable and had better battery life. Both are very fast though, both can be customized a lot, maybe easier on Liberty with the fancy toolbox. I also liked the ApeX look better, I usually don't theme much.
Now, I am on CM7.. I think I am good for awhile, I can do without GPS and camera.. I know where I'm at and can take pictures if needed with a camera.