i'm going with standard white plaster even though my builder is slightly badmouthing it wanting me to upgrade to pebbletech. white plaster may not last quite as long, but it's the cheapest and smoothest.

I doubt you would be able to easily discern plaster from Pebble Sheen or other small stoned high aggregate finish, except in 5 years where the high aggregate will still be the same and plaster will have developed some roughness from wear.

Scott