Looks great! Do you think it's really worth the cutting for a few hundred more RPMs? I can't speak for you, I'm not a 3-D kinda guy, I don't do hovering, so I'm not equipped to speak for other folks on that subject these days. How is the power the way it is now? Sounds like it's noticeable to you already, from your post. Maybe you could fly a few test runs, cowl-off, with each setup, see if the difference is that big. Whatever you choose, good luck, she looks fantastic.

Jim