I've used more creams then soaps, but I think I am partial to them. By far though, my favorite is a mix of the two. Put a little cream in the mug. Then load up the brush with some soap and go to town. I get a wonderfully rich lather.

You didn't mention anything about the method you're using to make your lather. Are you lathering on your face or in a mug? I tried to make lather on my face, and, IMHO, it sucks I just use one of those big coffee mugs to make my lather, but we recently bought a crock pot that came with a little mini one that I may put into shaving duty.