LAME doesn't rip. It encodes. Ripping != encoding. The ripping process is always the same, no matter what encoder you choose.

If you want to compare two encoders, then you do all your testing with the exact same WAV file. You also contradict yourself in your statements. Using r3mix settings in LAME will, on average, produce smaller sizes than 192CBR.

Anyway, use what you like. That's why WMA support is in there to begin with. But if you're really concerned about how something sounds to you, then you should obviously test your own tracks. LAME has a lot of options that will go far beyond the quality of not supplying any options at all.

Bruno