Big Ears and when to use them

yes, usually big ears first, then speed bar. Mainly because you decrease the angle of attack with the speed bar, so you would increase your risk of causing a large deflation when pulling down A-lines, plus you would increase the reaction of the glider to the deflation.

So, get your speed bar ready, as in heel on it, not pushing. Then put big ears in, then push the speed bar.

To let it go, let go of the big ears first, then release the speed bar. Not at the same time, because both actions initially increase the angle of attack.