Quote - Well I have P7 which seems to be one of the older generation of shader simulators. When did they begin using SSS lighting, etc? With P8?

 

SSS began in p9.

If lighting is important to you, you really ought to consider an upgrade. It will give you both SSS and IDL, which brings lighting realism to a whole new level. BB and Snarletgribbley have created many tools to help you take advantage of these advances, so it's not rocket science. Heck, if I can do it, ANYONE can!