You can't beat TTL flash metering, it's pretty well accepted that Nikon has the best TTL metering. Take advantage of the fact that you can use such a good system and get the SB600 and/or SB400.

Do you have a camera capable of wireless TTL? (D70/80/200/300, Not D40/50/60) If so, get the 600. Otherwise, the 400 is very inexpensive at $110.