Jake I use the exact same method that you do and this other method sounds like the only difference is that you uncleat the main before coming in off the wire. Which would result in the main being let out before you are in irons. Does this make the tack go faster?
Yes, you tack more quickly with the sheet eased as you tack.
Your boatspeed (assuming you've got some <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />)takes you through irons and the sheet being eased allows the boat to pay off onto the new tack. As the boat accelerates on the new tack you sheet in more and steer back up to your optimum upwind angle.
