which output setting sounds best?

I don't think it matters. You are not getting anywhere near a decent signal with the USB/HRT. It is all veiled anyway. Doubt you will hear a difference.

Evan, I'm just being honest. The gear mentioned is not transparent enough for the OP to be able to discern any difference between the settings he is asking.

You know, its like telling your friend that he should upgrade from the $20 hdmi cable to the $1,500 HDMI cable but the TV is 480i. Get it? Lets first teach people how to listen and what to listen for before we allow them to get caught up in minutia. And, maybe the baseball thing is bad analysis but if I had a son (or friend) who was real skinny and fragile and wanted to be a linebacker, someone should let him know he may be better akin to something else. Get it? HONESTY.

Ekwisenek, It doesn't matter how much the gear costs - what matters is HOW IT SOUNDS. I appreciate the recommendations I receive on the forum. We are all in different places financially and all have different budgets. The idea is to get the best within your means.

I haven't heard it. From the reviews, I wouldn't have an interest. The interface doesn't work for me.