Vocoders allow for amazing sonic experimentation. Try changing the carrier signal to strings, brass, bass, a synth pad, or something wild.
LFO speed will determine how fast vibrato occurs. LFO depth (also known as amount) will determine how high and low the pitch is bent.
Many electronic musicians will use rhythmic gating at some time or another. But, the way it is used depends greatly on the style of music being composed. Trance musicians use this effect all the time.