Boost Controller

If the max boost for the stock turbo is say 2 psi with out fearing the worse, why do people install the electronic read outs, guages ,etc? Why not just install a simple $70.00 gizmo (manual boost controller), set it for max of 2 more psi and forget it- no fancy bells or whistles. By the way, how much more Horse power will 2 psi give you?

manual boost controllers aren't consistent, electronic boost controllers offer better consistency on hitting the specific boost level, allow you to change channels so you can easily change from a daily driving boost level to a racing boost level without getting out of your car, it includes an electronic boost gauge, and contains a lot of other features as well. Main reason i got my EBC was because when i first got my car running, i wanted to run a low boost and the MBC wouldnt allow me to go below 10 psi, so i had to invest in the EBC

A) aftermarket boost gauge is needed, if you just turn up boost estimated 2psi, the stock gauge sucks and you can destroy your engine
B) manual boost controllers can allow boost spikes, the springs wear out, they are great in my opinion if you are saving for a year to get the EBC, then I would get a cheap one for a year, but I wouldn't keep it on for long.

http://monninengineering.com/Boostcontrol.html

this site offers a good comparison of multiple kinds and brands of BCs.

Also according to 3si's mod page, if you get a boost controller and crank out that extra 2-2.5psi, you can get 30-50hp.
Figure with an intake, BC, gutted precats, and a downpipe you will be around 400hp at the crank.

i believe its something like 1 psi equals about 10hp

Correct me if I am wrong, because I am by no means a physics major, but doesn't it increase, the higher you go. For instance if raising boost 8-9psi doesn't create as much as raising 13.5-14.5psi? Am I wrong? I just didn't think it was a constant. Please let me know, as I have wondered about this before.

Without an aftermarket boost guage their is no way to set the MBC.