I have and use them both, the Anton Bauer and the Pag, both with the daylight and tungsten modules. The AB is definitely a better-built light and the HMI has a greater output over the Pag. Changing over the modules from tungsten to HMI is an easy two-step operation. The Pag is also quick to change but require an extra step for a protective cover to be placed over the bulb. Unfortunately the AB costs twice as match as the Pag. The Pag has a tungsten module with a dimmer, something that AB doesn’t offer.
Don’t expect the small HMI to make a great difference if shooting with the sun behind you. The light might give you a catch light in the eyes and slightly reduce the shadow areas. The best way to take advantage of the on camera HMI is to have the subject backlit, sun in front of you (or side front). You can overexpose the edges (rim light) in order to get a good exposure on the face without sacrificing the overall quality, actually I prefer backlighting a subject. Backgrounds such a building or a grandstand will also be backlit (in the shadow) and will not overexpose your shot. You just have to plan and experiment. Just make sure that the sun doesn’t flare into the lens, use a good lens hood or a matte box with a French flag. I use the Pag as a second light, on a stand self powered by a NP battery. You can place the light just outside the camera view in order to get some modeling on the face.
Yes, the light might cause discomfort in some people’s eyes. If the subject is talking into the camera I use a 6†stud to elevate the light. For interviews looking off camera the position of the light doesn’t matter.
The question of using an arm to bring the light off the side enough to create some modeling was posted before. In my opinion it will not work. First to create a decent modeling the light should be at least 3 feet off the side but it should also be elevated. Now that you have a key light casting a shadow on the face, you will also need a second light to fill those shadows to the desired ratio. Also, any slight movement of the camera will throw the light way off the subject.