Update: managed to have a net this week for the first time in ages, so tried out a slightly more open/front on stance. The main difference was it put less strain on my dodgy groin, but it felt comfortable so i'm going to stick with it.
The main improvement though was getting my hands higher (as per Julian Wood's tips). As an opener I've always played with low hands to avoid getting bowled or lbw, but batting with high hands really helped me take on the pull shot and gave me much greater power through the ball.
Amazing the difference a net can make ;-)