I'm not sure I understand the question. The $HEX[] format is used on console and in the output file. It is ignorant of the encoding used. If you know (or can guess) the encoding used for a $HEX[] plaintext you can convert it into readable format externally.
Your wordlists will always be processed in the same manner, based on ancient hashcat philosophy: crap in - crap out. (unless you use the --encoding-from/--encoding-to options)
Your wordlists will always be processed in the same manner, based on ancient hashcat philosophy: crap in - crap out. (unless you use the --encoding-from/--encoding-to options)