Softboxes..is a top brand worth it ?

I have several lights, Profoto Compact 600s, Elinchrom Style 600, and White Lightning x1600s. I just use whichever one is closest. It doesn't really matter which one you use since the color and power range are similar on all of them.

I just use one light to light the panel and use reflectors to redirect the spill. I've never needed more than one light and it's usually turned down to 1/2 power or so.

--
Ted W.

Whatever you can do, or dream you can, begin it. Boldness has
genius, power and magic in it. - Goethe