[Dumb ?]

I am currently using XBMC Live with my setup but have been thinking about using the Windows version of XBMC so that I can use certain things like Boblight, IMON etc. I really like the "snappiness" of my live setup and was wondering what the experience with Windows XBMC as an appliance

Do you boot straight into XBMC, or is it better to launch it from within MCE?
Are you using an ambilight product and how is the experience in Windows?
Can you setup ambilight in XBMClive? (really would prefer)
what are your positive/benefits for using Windows?
Thanks for your time