Yeah, I use tops too when on flats or being lazy and in drops when sprinting or going downhill.
Dunno about trying out bars. I've only had the ones that came with my bikes. However, I've been doin' the 'fool'
thing myself lately at LBS as I want to upgrade my stem/bar from 26mm to 31.8mm stem clamp size. I'm considering carbon as well as the ergo / wing style.