i ran stg 1 for a few weeks, but i picked up a new apr dp from a distressed party for $800 and a near new carbonio for cheap so it made the jump to stg 2 easier on the wallet.
also, the reflash doesnt cost any extra if ur running the apr hardware.

for all the talk of stg 3, imo, at stg 2, there is way too much power for the chassis, wheel spin is always an issue, and stg 3 would be undriveable. stg 2 is at a level that makes it enjoyable. there is plenty of surge when u need it without lighting up the tyres all the time.

everyone goes on about more power, but i think it needs to be useable power and i also do a lot of sydney peak hour driving so its pretty pointless