I have used the stock Sprint 1.96 radio, the unlocked Verizon 2.23WU and am now using the unlocked 2.05WU that cmonex did with USCC tests? I never had any real problems with 2.23, but 2.05WU seems to be working a bit better so far in terms of signal. I cannot really comment yet on perceived battery usage because I flash new ROMs so often right now.
Sorry - I will try to reform.