FWIW...
I left C1 years ago after managing to get my Phase one files to look great in LR (LR is great for DAM, as well as all the upload/output options).
After catching up on this thread yesterday I downloaded the beta of Nikon's new NX-D and open a recent D800E portrait in both LR and NX-D
The NX file was opened up by 2/3 of a stop and more (better) contrasty but certainly not night and day.
The slight reddish skin tones where still apparent in both processes.
Oberservations:
LR under exposes both my PhaseOne and Nikon RAWs (to save highlights?)
I shoot in Nikon Neutral and often apply my own profile on import to LR
Said profile often dials out most of the red in the skin tones if not I dial it out in LR (dev mode at bottom).
I still think that if you spend enough time learning a (powerful) bit of software your options are limitless, it is US that is the bottleneck, if C1 or NX can create a fab profile, then so can we. it just needs a bit of patience, a method and lots of tea/cawfee/wine/JD....
In addition, here are a few reasons I use LR, this might help or hinder...
Import- I import as DNG, backs are original raws, then those raws are backed up to a drive that lives mostly off site.
tithe key~ after import (adding simple search words and numbering) use the 'L' key or shift/tab key to isolate 1st image, then use space bar to go to next pic, use the tithe key to flag the ones you like (forget about stars or colours, you either like it or you don't).
Once you've done that, double click last image to get you back to grid format and click filters off in top right and click flagged, then go edit-select all.
Scroll down the left hand file location box to collections, create new 'model shoot edit 1' or whatever and it will ask if you want to include these selected images, say yes.
Nothing gets moved at all, it means you don't have to keep referring back to every pic from a shoot, you are working with your edits..
You can then cut that down even further with edit 2, 3 clients choice etc...
'Create virtual copy'
Really great if you want to see how an image looks 3 different ways...
User PRESETS
wow, everything you do from import to print or web layout can be saved as a preset and used again for perfect consistency... WOW..
NO DESTRUCTIVE EDITING...
DOUBLE WOW need I say more.. couple that with history and it just speeds up input/back up and output to customers via the web/email/pdf
just some quick random points that might help and get you out shooting more...
Steve