Being a relative newb with cryptocurrencies, I have to admit I don't know which of you is right.
Still, DQ is winning at the moment for me, actual evidence is a good way to win an argument I guess. I'm pretty much put off p2pools now!
Oh yeah, anyone got any good settings for a 3x 270 (not x) rig?

There is nothing wrong with p2pool. Just make sure you have a good node with low latency. If you do not have one close setup your own node. I currently have 0.37% DOA. My returns on p2pool in almost all cases run higher than it does on an MPOS pool. It does require you understand how it works to make the most of it. A general statement that p2pool is bad is just not correct. It is no different than saying that you had a bad experience on an MPOS pool so they are all bad.
Just my 0.02 HIRO's worth
Have a good day!
Thrash