Regarding SB, surely the only thing that matters is if the user feels it makes the car better ? I think we all understand it does not increase power in any way, but it alters the 'perceived' feel of the pedal response.

It gives you the option to play with the throttle curve at any time. Yes a remap or pulley change will actually increase power but that does not negate the positives of using a SB.

Mostly. I'd say it "actually" alters the pedal response, not perception. The perception would be more power from the engine. Shorter elapsed times are a real consequence. To me the gained access to the power with less needed pedal travel made the speed changes easier to modulate. Also, comfort mode cruising was much more enjoyable, without needing to go into sport mode and it's constant multi-downshifts and gear holding (though I spent most of the time in manual shift - which is improved as well).