I have done 5 ciders, 2 of which i included a small amount of LDME (100g/10L) along with a tin of pear juice and i prefer the end result over straight apples juice. A bit more mouthfeel and not so bone dry. I have only ever used Wyeast Cider and once the craftbrewer dry cider yeast.
The straight juice ciders are killer on a hot day though!