Here are my latest results, these are with the standard 3" compressor cover rather than the 3" anti-surge cover. This seems to be the winning setup if you ask me; 200 RPM quicker spool, better response, more torque, nearly identical horsepower, and of course one less option to pay for
Driving impressions are great! No surge issues could be felt and it drove very nicely. Initial impressions are it drives just as smooth as the anti-surge version, but give me another few days to truly experience the turbo in more scenarios. Oddly enough, turbo intake noise is slightly more with the standard cover than with the anti-surge version.
My final verdict: Standard cover is the way to order this turbo. Save yourself a few bucks and enjoy the quicker spool/response times!