I will be needing a good headlamp soon. I like the H30 very much but I was curious how the AA version will perform. If the new AA version of H30 will have as equal time and output, I will hold off. Th reason is that AAs are much easier to find, but if someone knows that AA version won't be able to produce the time and output similar to H30, then I will buy the H30. Since the H50 has been pumping out good lots of lumens and time on AA, I think that Zebra Lights will be able to produce same results for H30 in AA???
I had the same decision to make as you. I opted for the H30 because I needed it now and I'm so impressed that I'm sure that I'll be making other purchases as new models become available.
I chose the H30 over the current AA model because of the 80° beam and I wanted a switch. Had the choice been between the H30 and the H501 (the same light in AA), I would have chosen the AA because of the cell choice. I'm glad that I was 'forced' to get the H30 because of its size. I'm using rechargeables and some primaries because I've only got one R123, but I've just ordered more from AW, so I'll be using rechargeables exclusively.
I haven't done run time tests yet. Unfortunately most of my use is on high. My aging eyes need much more light than they used to. One thing I've noticed is that it produces such a useful, non interfering, non traditional beam, that you sometimes forget that you're using a light. It's also the most comfortable headlight that I've used.
Not knowing how long it'll be before the H501 is available, I'd advise you to get the H30 - I can't imagine someone being disappointed with this light.