I have the granddaddy of hubs the original SA Dyno hub and a much newer Shimano. I am very pleased with the performance of the Shimano. I don't think there is a huge difference between the Shimano and the Schmidt. The biggest gain is going to be in the type and quality of light you choose. If it is a no cost barred contest buy the Schmidt it you want the most bang for your buck buy the Shimano. I have a brother that is an electrical engineer and he has a Shimano
Aaron