RE: Carbon Fiber Props: functional, or beautiful?
Carbon fiber = zero flex = more performance. However, that performance is usually realized with bigger engines, not engines that use a 16" prop. In your case, the APC 16X6 is a good prop that doesn't flex much. If you were to go with a carbon fiber 16X8 you would probably see a reduction in performance.
The other advantage to carbon fiber is reduced weight but that advantage doesn't hold much water when it comes to props as the wood props are usually lighter. I dunno if a cf prop would be lighter then an APC or not.
Finally comes the "CooL" factor. That one is hard to beat. If you want real CoLl" try a Biela CF prop from Aircraft International. Now that is cool. I think they may have the size you want as well. Just do a google on Aircraft International & check it out.