Before we did new HVAC, I spent a lot of time on:

HVAC-Talk: Heating, Air & Refrigeration Discussion

It was an excellent resource.

"Does my home configuration make a difference as to which system will provide the best performance for temperature and humidity control."

Your configuration probably doesn't have much relevance in determining single stage vs 2 stage, but the 2 stage system will generally be more comfortable.

Not sure what you're thinking re: "variable speed" (?)

Does my home configuration make a difference as to which system will provide the best performance for temperature and humidity control.

You don't really provide enough information. IE location, size of home, types of fuel choices you are using etc.

What are your design comfort parameters? No two people are alike.

Your home configuration can have an impact on performance, just as well as design of the system(s) serving that structure. Also "humidity control" tend to be buzz words... what do you mean by "control"?

Yes your home configuration has an effect on the heat and coolong systems and that 14' ceiling in one space will be a big issue Talk to a good HVAC pro not just installers .

Does my home configuration make a difference as to which system will provide the best performance for temperature and humidity control.

It can to some degree. Placement of supply registers and returns may have a bigger influence than the HVAC system itself. A properly installed 2-stage system can improve comfort and humidity control. The term "variable speed" is sometimes misleading when describing HVAC equipment. Some manufacturers take a lot of liberties when describing their equipment as variable speed.