I tried both USB and AES between my Lumin Digital Transport and my Holo Audio Sprong DAC 3 KTE, and I preferred the AES to USB. It just sounded warmer and and smoother to my ears.
I have not tried the I2S connection because of all the confusion over the pin set up required.. its a mess. Its too bad, because I understand the Holo Audio did a good job with it...