I don't use any other software so i wouldn't know.

Choosing the option PATH as opposed to default doesn't take a long time.....it takes forever...what's more, the few times i have tried it, including a render to add to this thread, all i get is a black (blank) image.

Default and silk are the 2 settings i use the most for several reasons, mainly, for objects i want chrome, sink taps, kettle..whatever, i set them to max shine and jet black, works well for me, if set to gloss i get a black object, seems it's a frying pan or fire situation