Originally Posted by MrFatbooty
The Power FC is hugely popular among FD RX-7 owners because it's for the most part the only reliable option out there and the most tuners know what they're doing with it. I know for RX-7 applications at least, it's over $1000. For the most basic Hondata setup which is all that's really needed when having an engine built, tuned, and then left alone (or only tuned by a shop), you can spend a whole lot less than that. Only the full-tilt-boogie loaded up Hondata with all the goodies and such but runs the engine essentially the same will run you similar in price to a Power FC.
I've bought 2 power FC's. One for $750 with commander the other for $800. Definitely more than the hondata from a base price but a power FC from the get go does Boost, Maptracing (Need datalogging feature with hondata), can be tuned with no burner (Need romulator ($180) and Pocket Programmer ($180)) So by the time you get a Hondata with the extra features and the $360 in extra equipment to tune and burn chips they are pretty darn close and the hondata might be more.
I am really speaking for those who want to tune their own cras. It isn't hard to learn to do this and Hondata is a kick ass setup too but with a Datalogit and a Power FC you have an equal setup.
As a disclaimer the datalogit costs $300 so you would have to find a power FC with no commander to get it for approx $800. This is also a used price but there seems to be no detriment to that. I currently own a Hondata (with every feature available) and a power FC. The power FC is in the car.
I have yet to try the AEM EMS personally and have only spectated tuning on cars with it. It is very nice. Also on the Hondata note, there are a few small options in it that make it a nice setup like controlling VTEC for a certain vacuum so that you can run over a specified RPM on the highway without engaging VTEC.
Just things to ponder.