Hi Prowl.

Decide whether you want the Henkei or regular Hasbro releases or a mix (figure by figure basis). They are not 100% better in quality (about the same for classics and generations figures (although I notice a difference from the universe moulds), but the Takara versions, especially Henkei have a more g1 cartoon accurate colour scheme (i.e. compare bumblebee/starscream/prime/red alert) and IMO better deco (compare mirage/smokescreen). Some united figs have outright superior paint apps, but at a premium cost, e.g. compare United Tracks/Jazz to their RTS counterparts.

Some comparison can be seen here: http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showth...081#post212081
(Comprehensive thread with pics from TFW: http://www.tfw2005.com/boards/transf...-pictures.html)

If price is not that big of a deal, I highly recommend going purely for the Henkei/Takara versions if you want the best version (imo).

Have a look on ebay for completed listings to get a gist of the prices (buying on here can reduce that price, but if trying to complete Henkei, you will most likely need ebay).

I have to say that Henkei will be ridiculously hard to complete for the average collector... the current prices are just insane.

Some other information:
-Henkei Convoy (prime) and Hound were re-released around August last year and are still widely available online at retail price.
-Limited Henkei Seekers: Thundercracker, Skywarp and Ghost Starscream have been KOed so beware (although you might want to go for generations TC).
-Exclusive Electro Disruptor Mirage (Clear Mirage) has also been KOed- in loose form.
-Universe Prowl apparently had a widespread/common issue of sticky paint.
-Forum member UltraMagnus speculated that there may be a re-release of some figures here. But this may or may not be true- so don't hold your breath.
-Also highly likely re-release of later waves of the United figs:http://www.otca.com.au/boards/showthread.php?t=10735 . Wave 1 has already been recently re-released, as further evidence.

Botcon this weekend will reveal lost more about upcoming classics releases - so it will be good to wait for that information first.

As for figures, I have a spare loose (Complete and minty) classics mirage that I don't mind selling off- PM me if you're interested.