Even with their gutted VIP program? I'm going to assume yes simply due to traffic.

yes and best chance of playing someone not using software assistance

It is and always will be.

That's too broad of a question.

In most situations, I think the answer is yes. At lower stakes, probably not in every case, as plenty of other sites offer softer games, better rewards and still have enough lower stakes traffic. Software has also improved a lot in recent years.

That said, playing on Stars is never really a big mistake, and is often the best decision.

As you get into higher stakes, you almost need to play Stars to get enough volume, though mixing in other sites is a good idea.

Software assistance, particularly on non Stars sites, is a major concern of players at mid to high stakes. Not just in HUSNGs, but particularly in HUSNGs. A lot of non Stars sites aren't well equipped to deal with decision making (and even enforcement of any existing rules) there.

ive been thinking this a lot, want to play husng back, but cant seem a good site besides stars, and last time i playe don stars i saw a lot of nits even on micro levels. what would be a good number 2 option? or even mixing sites if necessary

You think it's not good to play nits in a game where each player is forced to post a blind every single hand?