Matt, absolutely correct. I think you, Richard and I are cut from the same cloth. From what I gather we are all competitiors that need that extra level of performance out of our engines. Performance IMO includes all aspects of the engine and not just how fast it spins the prop. This is why I say guys don't know what they don't know. I can't say nor would I ever kid myself into thinking what the engine requirements are on a NASCAR because I don't have the experience to do so although I have been driving Chevy small blocks for 35 years. It would be unrealistic for anyone who does not fly pattern or IMAC to know what qualities are needed to be at the top of ones game. Take that midrange burble for example. You and I know how much more difficult a score of 8.5-9 is going to be performing a rolling circle when the engine will not hold a constant RPM. That burble is going to create a rich/richer condition from upright to inverted so elevator and rudder authority will constantly be changing as well. If one has not faced this himself then he simply can't understand 100% how important it is to have as linear throttle response as possible. A quote from Dave Johnson, " we can't win a contest for anyone but we sure can loose one ".


The difference in opinion is just a difference in expectations. Those who have high expectations are usually the ones dubbed " DA Fanboys " personally I have no issue with that. My issue is when a non competitor demands that his budget engine is just as good as my 14 year old DA