I prefer the bar at the top for the same reason. I find it easier to use as well
because I use AWN at the bottom in Compiz or if running Windows in Virtualbox in
seamless mode I can have a Windows bar at the bottom and Gnome/KDE bar at the
top. Having it in the same place whether in Gnome or KDE makes sense as you
always know where to look.

I am using Gnome for now, but I switch back and forth and after years I still
can't make up my mind. I like both, for different reasons. I appreciate each one
more after using the other as I see their individuality better.We are lucky to
have two (and more) great desktops to choose from.