I actually saw the Hobby Lobby set-up fly before I bought the Ikarus one. When I saw the Hobby Lobby set-up fly, he had plenty of power. I bought the Ikarus one because it looked better engineered and with their motor it was a lot lighter. I have the Ikarus motor and VPP set-up. By watching mine fly and the Hobby Lobby set-up, I would say the Hobby Lobby set-up did look to have more power. You have your Ikarus set-up on an AXI right? Sounds like the Ikarus VPP unit might not be as efficient as the Hobby Lobby set up. I don't know what everyone is coming up with weight on their planes, but mine is in the mid 6oz range with battery. That might be why mine is performing good. I know if mine weighed a little more I probably would be disappointed.
Thanks,
Craig