If I ever run a game, I'd probably go with either the KOTOR era or Fall of the Republic (approx 500-300 BBY). That way I don't have to deal with too many all-important, iconic characters popping up. I like Rebellion eras and everything post-Endor, but I sort of feel there's a very Faerunian problem in those setting periods.
Edit: Oh yeah, Rise of the Empire is a nice time period as well. Again, lots of stuff going on but without lots of high-level, "Good" characters to get in the way.