Bob,
No I haven't tried a beauty dish but I'm going to rent one and give it a try for the next portrait session. I'm not sure I like the catchlights but I need to try it myself and see if that's a distance issue.

As for the lighting from the silver umbrella, 10 feet away, 6 feet high and it works just fine for me every time. I tend to keep things simple in my lighting because it allows me to concentrate on the subjects. I must admit, however, that I miss some real nice lighting opportunities. I need to expand my thinking some. Also need to add a light or two.

But for shows, the two AB400s are ideal so I'll stick with those for my win shots.

Jim