I just flew FlyBe on the Q400. It was undoubtedly the most comfortable turboprop I have flown on (comparison includes Jetstream 31/41, Dash 6, Dash 8-100/300, ATR42/72 and probably more before I started paying attention). The cabin is slightly noisier, but not much different than I recall from older jets. Comfort compares favorably to most regional jets (excluding the Embraer 170/190, which are not really RJs): far superior to the CRJ regional jets, and better than the ERJs as well.
Seat at pitch is tight, but no worse than other regional jets of similar size. The view from the windows is excellent.
I wouldn't avoid the Q400 at all. If it goes where I want, when I want, for the right price, it works for me.