Would it be wise to switch form a nikkor 85mm f/1.8 to a 50mm f/1.4?

Is the quality prty much the same [with the exception of focal length]?
i just feel that 85mm is far too zoomed and just isn't so practical

Well the 85mm is more of a macro lens. If you do more portraits, then yes, you should switch to the 50mm.

quality will be about the same, but that larger aperture will help you with certain effects.

If 85 is too much for you then yes, 50 makes sense. Both are fine lenses, latest model 50mm f1.4 may even be a tiny bit sharper than the 85.

I think you should go with Nikon 85mm f/1.8D AF Nikkor Lens for Nikon Digital SLR Cameras

Portable medium telephoto lens that is ideal for indoor and outdoor portraits
Rear Focusing system for fast and smooth optical performance
Subtle blurring of background for beautifully natural and evocative portraits
High-speed f1.8 aperture
Compact and lightweight at 13.2 ounces

I think you should go with Canon EF 50mm f1.4 USM Standard & Medium Telephoto Lens for Canon SLR Cameras

50mm standard lens with f/1.4 maximum aperture for Canon SLR cameras
2 high-refraction lens elements and Gaussian optics help eliminate astigmatism
Delivers crisp images with little flare at the maximum aperture
Extra-small Micro USM focus adjustment and full-time manual focusing
Measures 2.9 inches in diameter and 2 inches long; 1-year warranty