GAAH! Did I have the only version of Java 1.5 that Compose wouldn't play well with?!?:laugh:

No problems with group edges distorting if Compose is used  to create the vertex mapped contiguous mesh, regardless of modeling app.

Blender sculpt brushes - adjustable fall-off and limited use of textures as brushes. (Don't forget proportional editing is another option in Blender)

Turning back onto the thread topic now after the detour.

IMO....don't worry so much about the time to output ratio, if you're not generating a significant amount of your revenue from your efforts then concentrate on the quality/detail, relax and enjoy your hobby.

Simplification is fine so long as you maintain your quality standards considering the different requirements for stills vs. animations. Good quality simple meshes definitely have a place and use alongside the more complex detailed meshes.