As I stated earlier the more space above the blade the more area for air circulation which creates more suction therefore it lifts the grass and will give you a better cut, any landscaper that wants to cut higher I always raise the deck on the frame (when possible) and then lower the blades in the deck by moving the spacers from top to bottom. Any one with a snapper walk mower or rider would be able to attest to this as that is how thier decks are designed and they work better,
Also remember longer blades also help give a better cut as the blade tip speed is faster, always sold a 36" or 52" over a 32" or 48" cut mower. Had many guys tell me they couldn't use a 48 next to a 36 or 52 as you could see the difference in cut.