Yes it does offer a better absorption band and is less temperature sensitive. I think that Nd:yag is the stable at a given set of pump powers that a lot have become accustomed to using. The Nd:Yvo4 is much more efficient at converting a broader range of pump power from near 805nm up to 811nm making the same doubled frequency. Thus making the design more acceptable to errors in design....plus the mode volume allows a shorter crystal equaling less thermal issues. OK now lets find the pieces and coral them into a box to me then? Allthough Nd:Yag at a low dopant level will result a most acceptable gain at an increased pump .
You are the only one that can make your dreams come true....and the only one that can stop them...A.M. Dietrich