Actually most of the top fliers are mode 2, arn't they?
Quique, CPLR, Hyde, Shulman, McMurtry,etc
Roland Matt uses mode 1 I think, I guess it just depends where you learn to fly rc.

I bet you will also find that the springs in CPLR's radio are quite stiff.

Theoretically (IMO), the most precise way of moving the sticks, is with a tray, long sticks, and high spring tensions.
That along with a bit of expo really helps delete unwanted shakes, or movements of the sticks.
It also gives you a really good feel for the centre position of the stick.