I tried steel frame with both steel and carbon fork and different front wheels, as well as different brakes. Ended up with low spoke machined brake surface front wheel, carbon fork, dual pivot brake (of course).
It does make difference - braking is more efficient, ride is more comfortable and the bike is more stable on the road . Weight reduction does not hurt, too.
I believe this (carbon fork with steel frame) is just ideal combo for non-racing bikers.
Just my 2 cents of statistical data.
good luck