This is actually a two part question. A search of the forums hasn’t helped.
is there a way to lay down 100% mask intensity using a pen / tablet? Adjusting the Z-intensity doesn’t seem to affect this
I am painting with a texture on (as helps understand where need to mask) but it is till tricky to see. Is there a way to change the color of the mask itself (purple or something for instance?)
Preferences > Edit> “Masked Object Dimming” will control the intensity of the mask being drawn.
Preferences > Tablet will allow you to adjust or disable the pressure sensitivity of the tablet entirely or for certain aspects.
Preferences > Draw has controls for the color and opacity for the polyframe and fill.
You can paint with different colors with Polypaint, and convert that to masking in the Masking menu with functions like “Mask by Color”. This won’t be possible when working with a texture active.
Converting the texture to polypaint on the mesh may make your process easier. Understand that this doesn’t have to be permanent, or even look very good, but it will allow you to visualize the color detail on the mesh without being as obstructive as a texture. You can always clear the polypaint and reapply the texture. You can also fill the mesh with the texture color at reduced opacity so you can see it, but it won’t be as obstructive.