PowerSafe Rx for me. I have flown many GS aircraft on just the bare Rx alone. No adverse effects. Typical Tx buss is rated for 35A. Your limiting factor are the servo plugs at 3A constant.
Performance degradation, you wont feel, unless you are super serious about competiting, and need it.
I have done my share of competiting, with all battery types, LiPo, LiOn, A123, NiMH, NiCad....... If you are looking for a constant supply of power, then dont look past A123 packs. They charge up to around 7V, and then quickly drop to 6.6V and stay there until dead.
I never felt battery degration with LiPo, LiOn, NiMH or NiCad. I can feel it when the batteries are completely dead.