I have no real experience other than messing around with a dozen plus plants this grow. From what I've seen of various LST/topping techniques I've tried, it seems like an early top and then LST is the way to go.
Some plants I just LSTed, but it's very hard to keep it 'even' in the pot when you're just LSTing your main branch. The plant that's doing best for me training wise, was topped at 4th node, then the two tops and two lower branches (opposite sides) can all be stretched down uniformly. I also found with an early top, the bud sites are far far more uniform.
Anyway, just my two cents. Certainly not an expert opinion.