Yes vel->vol is fairly standard for getting a nice groove going easily. I also have the pitch of the note slightly adjusting the filter also, so higher notes on the scale close the filter a little bit as I find higher notes opening up the filter take up too much space in the mix. I am only modulating by a tiny bit though (-10).

Vb-1 is a classic, each synth has its own character so it depends what sound you are going for. Like choosing a stratocaster over a les paul for a particular guitar sound in a band situation. I like serum for its high resolution (check the global tab and select 4x quality, especially for FM sounds) and the moog style filters are pretty tasty too!