I'm new to all this, and starting with 2 to 3 hives. I went with wax and wire my frames because I wanted the whole "beekeeping" experience. :)
As with ANYTHING in beekeeping, opinions vary widely, I've heard everything from it's better for the bees, they prefer it, they draw it out better, etc. etc. etc. To it doesn't matter.
I can certainly see where if your numbers became significant, it would be hard to justify the time investment necessary for wax foundation and wiring. But for now at least, i wanted to go the more traditional route and I'm glad I did....