Dumbbells work you stability muscles. They are more for isolating a specific group of muscles but typically you'll see better gains. Barbells work a more broad area. I usually work with dumbbells for a few months then switch.
I'm trying to stay lean. Being bulky is not that fun I don't think. Clothes and stuff don't fit right etc. I'm naturally a tubby person so I gotta stay on it.
x2 on the yfz calipers. its a good upgrade. if you do it right you can end up with the calipers and new pads and pad for about $50. some people say you need the yfz master cylinder but im running the stock one and it works just fine for me.
im pretty sure its a 400ex. i got it off ebay for $15. i dont know if there is a difference in the 450 or 400. we have a 450r also. i look when i get a chance and see if they are physically different.
Bsn products are good but I prefer optimum myself. Optimum pro complex gainer is what I'd go for. Loco is right though. Shakes aren't a replacement for sustained protein.