If you are going change the gearing go the extra mile and increase the rear instead of reducing the front. You want as many teeth engaged on the front as possible. One tooth on the from is approx 4 teeth on the rear. I'd recommend going up two teeth on the rear.
Also, the Carbon Tech low tension reeds really help the bottom end. I know you just changed the reeds but it's worth stating.
If you really want the biggest bang for the buck, have Eric Gorr port it for more low end. For $120 you'll get just the power you want and it will be nice and smooth.