In another post, I discussed shooting an event in an auditorium-style room. It was poorly lit. I was using a telephoto zoom, with a speedlite (430EX II) on a 7D, with the ISO up to 1600.

Got to thinking about the Better Beamer. Some of you are birders, so I assume you're using one of these.

Would they do a better job in a situation like I mentioned above?

Does it act like a miniature softbox?

I also have a 580EX II. I see that they make them for either speedlite.

Your valued input would be very much appreciated. Thanks.