There is no doubt that the AEM EMS is a lot of work and a learning process. If you're NA it's a massive waste of time and money, but then so are most mods if you're NA (flame suit on).

However, if you're FI there is a strong argument for it. With the possible exception of the Ultimate E-manage and I think one of the F-Con units there is no piggy back system that properly controls injectors and timing and even then you don't get all the features of the AEM. And compared to a Motec or similar it is a massive saving in time and effort.

I've tried the V-AFC NA and SC, the E-manage with SC and turbo and the AEM with turbo. The only one I've had real success with is the AEM and I'm only scratching the surface. Fortunately to me cars are a hobby so mucking about and learning the AEM is a wealth of enjoyment for me. I have still to set up O2 feedback, boost and traction control.

It has it's problems. Primary amongst the is the inability to drive the temp gauge but Modifry has fixed that. And some of the tables are off, but guys here have gone to the effort of providing corrected curves.