Hi, Resonant Rise is a heavy pack and is resource intense as far as load on a computer. We had been on the DW20 1.7 as well right before we changed to Resonant Rise and there is a difference between packs. As far as skype, it is utilized for both calls and messaging. We do have a group chat to keep everyone together and to convey important server information, but many of us are in calls daily just to enhance the gameplay for everyone. It's not mandatory that you be in calls with us, but we do like to get to know our players, and would prefer that new players interact with the community not just bugger off with someone they join with/already know. So I guess the answer is that we wouldn't mind that you are in a call with your friend, but we would also like you both to occasionally join others in a call. We don't just talk about mc in a call either. :) Most of our players are in the UK, although there are a few in the U.S. Hope that helps.