My question is "HOW" to set up plane / radio for best feel, which ones do you think are NOT important?

OK, here's what you want. Set up the linkage for best possible mechanical advantage to the servo. That means a short servo arm and longer control surface horn. Be sure all your linkages are as friction and slop free as possible. Use mechanical settings to limit or adjust control throws before you use electronic ones.

Now, I WILL tell you which ones I think aren't important. I think exponential is far superior to dual rates. It's always on, so it's available without having to flip a switch. It's infinitely adjustable and comes on smoothly so there's no sudden jump like there is between D/R settings. Also, you never have to search for a switch or wonder which position the switch is in during the flight.

Balance the plane farther forward for a softer, less responsive feel to control movement. Conversely for a quick response. Don't go beyond 25% to 33% either way.

Learn throttle management. Speed makes a BIG difference in how a plane responds.

Build your plane straight and square. A straight plane always flys better.

Build your plane light. A light plane flys better, too.

Dr.1