CoreyMH

I already tried searching but i couldn't find any info on what a standalone setup is. I was just wondering if someone would help me out and tell me what it is and if it is better, and how much does it cost??

WAYNE88N/A

basically it's another computer that accepts inputs from your engine sensors and schedules fuel delivery and ignition timing- a replacement for the ECU, in other words, that delivers more accurate parameters/ performance

Evil Aviator

"Standalone" is short for Standalone Engine Management System (EMS). An EMS is the computer, sensors, and wiring that controls the fuel injectors and ignition timing as its primary function. Depending on the model of the EMS, and how you set it up, it can also control secondary functions like rev limiter, boost control, idle air control, electric radiator fan, etc. The "standalone" designation means that it is totally independant of the stock EMS, as opposed to a "piggyback" computer that simply modifies the stock EMS.

A standalone EMS sells for about $800 to $10,000, depending on how fancy you want to get. Installation and tuning will cost another $300 to 3,000. The EMS's that you hear about on this forum are usually the budget models that usually sell for less than $2,000, and usually cost about $500 for basic tuning and installation.

Tuning an EMS is a very advanced process that should be left to the professionals. In your area, there are tuners and dealers for Microtech and Haltech, and there are tuners for Wolf. The "best" EMS depends on your own opinion. Rather than choosing an EMS, I recommend choosing a tuner, and then using whichever EMS they can tune to perform to your specifications.

We have an entire EMS forum here:
https://www.rx7club.com/engine-management-forum-37/