How do Mini V-brakes compare to cantilever brakes for Cyclocross bikes? I've got a surly cross check with straight bars, v-brakes, and mountain shifters. I was considering a switch to a drop bar setup for cyclocross racing so I have an alternative to my single speed cross bike. I'll be switching to STI shifters, so I have to replace my brakes since Shimano STI levers don't work well with the existing v-brakes. 

I am considering a pair of TRP CX9, Tektro RX6, or Paul's Mini Moto.  These should be compatible with my STI levers. However, due to a lack of information about this, I need to know why I would prefer cantilever brakes to the mini-v option?  

Possible issues I was considering:
Do mini v-brakes have to sit closer to the rim? Will this cause me to slow down more when my wheel goes through an inch or two of mud?
Are the mini v-brakes going to be as effective at stopping? Will the modulation be poor, causing me to OTB more often when I try to stop suddenly?
Is there a large difference in tire clearance between mini v-brakes and cantilever brakes?

If it matters, I tend to ride a lot in the northeast/mid-atlantic region of the US and it gets really muddy here, so I doubt most races will involve a dry pack course.  I also tend to get out on to real trails and ride on mountain bike singletrack from time to time.
Correctly set up V brakes don't make feathering any harder or easier than correctly set up cantilevers.  What you give up with V brakes is clearance--for things like mud.  If you ride in dry conditions, the V brake is likely superior.  If you ride a CX bike mostly on road or gravel, the V brake is likely superior.  If you ride in gloppy sticky mud, a wide-open cantilever will take longer to cake up...and will be superior.