There's good and bad for going with smaller hot lines - unless you're running a recirc system, the smaller line means less waste while waiting for hot. But, 1/2" pex is closer to 3/8" copper in its ability to transport water. This may be okay for a single showerhead, toilet, or sink, but not for two at a time, or for filling a tub.
If you go with a manifold system in the bathroom, get one with at least one extra port and use it to run a return line should you want to add a recirculation system.