UK/AU EMU vs USA EMU
I'm very interested in purchasing an EcuMaster EMU for my (JDM) 1JZGTE swapped RX7. I live in the US and while shopping for EMUs I've noticed a few things:
1) Features and options available in International Market EMUs are not always offered for the US market equivalents (e.g. CAN expansion module and CAN integrated EMU - neither is available in the US)
2) After correcting for the exchange difference, the US market EMUs are significantly more expensive (even after you figure international shipping)
Curiously, when looking at an eBay ad for a UK Market EMU, it states in bold print at the bottom of the ad, "THIS VERSION OF EMU WILL NOT WORK IN USA". I just can't understand why (and, frankly, how) this can be? It's a universal ECU - it's not like I'm looking for a Plug-and-Play for a specific USDM vehicle. Admittedly, I've never worked on a vehicle outside the US, however, I'm not aware of any significant differences - at least none that would impact a stripped down race car (heck, my car doesn't even have a USDM engine!).
When I compare the specs between the USDM and UK/AU units, they seem identical (with the exception of the added CAN/Analog Input expandability of the non-USDM versions). The UK/AU models even come with English instructions. So other than the fancy black cover on the USDM version, are there any differences? Is there any reason I shouldn't purchase a UK spec EMU - with more options, for less money - rather than a USDM version? Am I missing something?
Thanks!
Eric
1) Features and options available in International Market EMUs are not always offered for the US market equivalents (e.g. CAN expansion module and CAN integrated EMU - neither is available in the US)
2) After correcting for the exchange difference, the US market EMUs are significantly more expensive (even after you figure international shipping)
Curiously, when looking at an eBay ad for a UK Market EMU, it states in bold print at the bottom of the ad, "THIS VERSION OF EMU WILL NOT WORK IN USA". I just can't understand why (and, frankly, how) this can be? It's a universal ECU - it's not like I'm looking for a Plug-and-Play for a specific USDM vehicle. Admittedly, I've never worked on a vehicle outside the US, however, I'm not aware of any significant differences - at least none that would impact a stripped down race car (heck, my car doesn't even have a USDM engine!).
When I compare the specs between the USDM and UK/AU units, they seem identical (with the exception of the added CAN/Analog Input expandability of the non-USDM versions). The UK/AU models even come with English instructions. So other than the fancy black cover on the USDM version, are there any differences? Is there any reason I shouldn't purchase a UK spec EMU - with more options, for less money - rather than a USDM version? Am I missing something?
Thanks!
Eric
Re: UK/AU EMU vs USA EMU
its probably more to do with the version of windows your running as to whether it will work .
i remember a similar post regarding the US version being black , iirc they defended it with it being a marketing thing , guess now the £ is weaker they wont be defending it as much .
i remember a similar post regarding the US version being black , iirc they defended it with it being a marketing thing , guess now the £ is weaker they wont be defending it as much .
Re: UK/AU EMU vs USA EMU
Thanks, Welshman.
It looks like I got my response. I emailed the eBay seller directly and received the following response:
Ugh, guess I'll just have to pony up for the more expensive USDM EMU. I wonder if the UK CAN expander is compatible since it's not released in the US yet.
Best,
Eric
It looks like I got my response. I emailed the eBay seller directly and received the following response:
So that makes sense, it's locked out by the software. Frustrating though. I may actually be better off purchasing a UK LaptopHello.
Hardware will block the unit and it will require reflashing. Ecumaster did that on purpose becouse of the agreement between them and US distributor.
Once it gets connected to US version of Windows it will stop working immediatelly.
Kind regards, Peter

Ugh, guess I'll just have to pony up for the more expensive USDM EMU. I wonder if the UK CAN expander is compatible since it's not released in the US yet.
Best,
Eric
Re: UK/AU EMU vs USA EMU
There are a few versions of the EMU, and this was done to protect the support network. You should purchase from the distributor in your own country so that they can be the one to answer your questions and provide support. Several other companies do the exact same thing, and others are far more aggressive about denying support or warranty claims.
Regarding the CAN bus module, it's being added to the site today, along with the CAN version of the bluetooth adapter. We've had them in stock, they just haven't been added to the site.
Regarding the CAN bus module, it's being added to the site today, along with the CAN version of the bluetooth adapter. We've had them in stock, they just haven't been added to the site.
Re: UK/AU EMU vs USA EMU
The ecumasterusa site has been updated.
If you plan to use CAN Bus, the most cost-effective route is to just purchase the version of the EMU with CAN bus built in. We have them in stock and added it to the site today. It's a nominal bump in price, and much more affordable than purchasing the standard EMU and CAN module separately. We also added the CAN bluetooth adapter and some other accessories to the site.
If you plan to use CAN Bus, the most cost-effective route is to just purchase the version of the EMU with CAN bus built in. We have them in stock and added it to the site today. It's a nominal bump in price, and much more affordable than purchasing the standard EMU and CAN module separately. We also added the CAN bluetooth adapter and some other accessories to the site.
Re: UK/AU EMU vs USA EMU
There are various "versions", the use is limited by the Windows you are using.
Basically there are just two, one with CAN and one without.
English Version in Germany and Austria: 700-800€
English Version in Czech-Rep: 590€
English Version in the US: 1100$ >> 975€
English Version in the UK: 539 pounds, 639€
English Version in Australia: 1150AUD, 782€
Polish Version in Poland: 590€
EMUs are basically the same everywhere.
But I mean it's okay, that it's cheaper in some countrys, as the average income is way lower in some...
It doesn't matter where you live the EMU is a pretty good deal.
I mean EGT, wideband O2, Knock sensing, fully sequential 6-Cyl, a lot of Outputs and Inputs, all on board already.
Also Can, Bluetooth, DBW, Flexfuel, if you want!
No hassle with soldering resistors and shit, like with megasquirt
And great support thru the forums. (alot of pros here as well)
Just get it locally/in your country, forget the couple hundreds and be happy!
Basically there are just two, one with CAN and one without.
English Version in Germany and Austria: 700-800€
English Version in Czech-Rep: 590€
English Version in the US: 1100$ >> 975€
English Version in the UK: 539 pounds, 639€
English Version in Australia: 1150AUD, 782€
Polish Version in Poland: 590€
EMUs are basically the same everywhere.
But I mean it's okay, that it's cheaper in some countrys, as the average income is way lower in some...
It doesn't matter where you live the EMU is a pretty good deal.
I mean EGT, wideband O2, Knock sensing, fully sequential 6-Cyl, a lot of Outputs and Inputs, all on board already.
Also Can, Bluetooth, DBW, Flexfuel, if you want!
No hassle with soldering resistors and shit, like with megasquirt
And great support thru the forums. (alot of pros here as well)
Just get it locally/in your country, forget the couple hundreds and be happy!

Mercedes C280 M104 Turbo
Re: UK/AU EMU vs USA EMU
People also forget that taxes are very different depending on the country, too. The listed price in many countries is pretty far from what you would actually pay after taxes.pric wrote:There are various "versions", the use is limited by the Windows you are using.
Basically there are just two, one with CAN and one without.
English Version in Germany and Austria: 700-800€
English Version in Czech-Rep: 590€
English Version in the US: 1100$ >> 975€
English Version in the UK: 539 pounds, 639€
English Version in Australia: 1150AUD, 782€
Polish Version in Poland: 590€
EMUs are basically the same everywhere.
But I mean it's okay, that it's cheaper in some countrys, as the average income is way lower in some...
It doesn't matter where you live the EMU is a pretty good deal.
I mean EGT, wideband O2, Knock sensing, fully sequential 6-Cyl, a lot of Outputs and Inputs, all on board already.
Also Can, Bluetooth, DBW, Flexfuel, if you want!
No hassle with soldering resistors and shit, like with megasquirt
And great support thru the forums. (alot of pros here as well)
Just get it locally/in your country, forget the couple hundreds and be happy!
And I can't agree more, the EMU is an incredible value. We've spent a lot of money in the US building a support network and building the brand. Nobody would know about it here if we hadn't spent the money on marketing and working with dealers to get ECUMaster products on shelves and in cars. You can complain about the relative price in various countries, but it's not apples to apples, and the level of support is very different depending on what country you're in. We work hard to make sure that every customer gets their car started and running well, which I can't say for any other brand of ECU, and I doubt that most distributors of ECUMaster products go as far as we do in terms of support.
Re: UK/AU EMU vs USA EMU
Thats all true, in europe (EU) every price you see as a private Person includes taxes already.
Where i live the tuning scene (engine wise), is pretty small. (due to law)
So here is only one emu-dealer, real tuning shops are very rare.
I don't know if they would make you a startup file for free...
I'd wish governmental regulations wouldn't be so harsh here, then we would have a way bigger and cooler tuning scene, with builders everywhere.
(not just wheels, suspensions and funny bodykits)
greetings
Where i live the tuning scene (engine wise), is pretty small. (due to law)
So here is only one emu-dealer, real tuning shops are very rare.
I don't know if they would make you a startup file for free...
I'd wish governmental regulations wouldn't be so harsh here, then we would have a way bigger and cooler tuning scene, with builders everywhere.
(not just wheels, suspensions and funny bodykits)
greetings
Mercedes C280 M104 Turbo
Re: UK/AU EMU vs USA EMU
Well i am an distributor from CZE
If you are looking on my shop, the prices are without VAT, because i am selling only in few Countries, and the rest is without configuration of taxes, and you will not be able to order it from me. Prices for Configured Countries are prices including VAT.
Like Zach said, its about support in your Country. If you buy EMU from outside of your Country, you are doing it WRONG. You will end without support, make mistakes, and make bad name for Ecumaster.
I know many Stupid people (dont mean you) using things they dont understand, and talking s***t about it. Many times, its not problem with product, but with user. And we all are trying to make good NAME for the Ecumaster products. Perfect product neads perfect support, and this is what Country distributors are offering.
If you are looking on my shop, the prices are without VAT, because i am selling only in few Countries, and the rest is without configuration of taxes, and you will not be able to order it from me. Prices for Configured Countries are prices including VAT.
Like Zach said, its about support in your Country. If you buy EMU from outside of your Country, you are doing it WRONG. You will end without support, make mistakes, and make bad name for Ecumaster.
I know many Stupid people (dont mean you) using things they dont understand, and talking s***t about it. Many times, its not problem with product, but with user. And we all are trying to make good NAME for the Ecumaster products. Perfect product neads perfect support, and this is what Country distributors are offering.
Re: UK/AU EMU vs USA EMU
UK price is a lot more than £539 too , thats possibly pre tax cost but i paid more than 650 for one
Re: UK/AU EMU vs USA EMU
Wow, I very much appreciate all of your replies!
A few points -
1) My concern was more about the features than dollars - once exchange, VAT, shipping, etc are included the price difference isn't huge (the UK products are a little over ~$100 USD less all things considered). That said, if I can get a superior product (more features) for less money - wouldn't it be crazy for me not to consider it?
2) With respect to support - eh, it's a good point but I feel like it's a little overvalued. Cut the BS - I've played this game long enough to know two things (1) if I mess something up - it's going to be on me to figure out how to fix it and (2) if something is genuinely wrong with the product, I'm going to be fighting to get it fixed. You know the risks you take with "racing" parts - especially with something as complex as an ECU. But I would expect the same with AEM, Megasquirt, Haltech, Micro Tech, etc, etc. That said, I'm looking to go with ECUMaster because - compared to comparable systems - the tuning software looks about as easy as falling down. Bottom line, as long as it's not DOA, and I can get a startup tune, I don't see myself having an issue.
3) I'm not offended by ECUMaster's choice to protect distributors in different regions. If anything, it probably costs ECUMaster (corporate) and helps the smaller re-sellers who operate at small margins anyway. I operated a speed shop for a number of years (a lifetime ago) - so I know what selling at a < 15% margin is like and I applaud ECUMaster for supporting their distributors. That said, I think the incompatibility issues between the UK/AU and US versions should be more readily available. I almost pulled the trigger on a UK ECU last night - WOW! I'm glad I didn't. Let's hope this discussion shows up in Google searches going forward.
Zach - I'm assuming you're the same Zach I've corresponded with on the Supra forum a few times. Thanks again for your help. Moreover, thank you for updating the US website - I just assumed the US equivalent items were not really available (yeah, yeah, you know what they say about assume...). That said, I agree!! the EMU with the built in CAN is clearly the better choice (and the reason I almost bought a UK version!). So now that I know they are available in the US, I'd like to go ahead and get a USDM version. As an aside, you have two typos on the CAN EMU link added to the US website (1) with the CAN expansion, there should be 8 "spare" analog inputs (the UK website lists this as 8 and not 4) and (2) the price is listed as $1099 within the text (note, I will gladly pay the same price for the CAN equipped model as the standard one, lol - but seriously do you offer package deals or something if I order directly? ). I'm not sure how the business model works, however, you've put in the effort, so can I order this directly from you? Maybe I'm old fashioned, but I'd rather speak to a real person before ordering, can you PM me your (business) contact info?
Best,
Eric
A few points -
1) My concern was more about the features than dollars - once exchange, VAT, shipping, etc are included the price difference isn't huge (the UK products are a little over ~$100 USD less all things considered). That said, if I can get a superior product (more features) for less money - wouldn't it be crazy for me not to consider it?
2) With respect to support - eh, it's a good point but I feel like it's a little overvalued. Cut the BS - I've played this game long enough to know two things (1) if I mess something up - it's going to be on me to figure out how to fix it and (2) if something is genuinely wrong with the product, I'm going to be fighting to get it fixed. You know the risks you take with "racing" parts - especially with something as complex as an ECU. But I would expect the same with AEM, Megasquirt, Haltech, Micro Tech, etc, etc. That said, I'm looking to go with ECUMaster because - compared to comparable systems - the tuning software looks about as easy as falling down. Bottom line, as long as it's not DOA, and I can get a startup tune, I don't see myself having an issue.
3) I'm not offended by ECUMaster's choice to protect distributors in different regions. If anything, it probably costs ECUMaster (corporate) and helps the smaller re-sellers who operate at small margins anyway. I operated a speed shop for a number of years (a lifetime ago) - so I know what selling at a < 15% margin is like and I applaud ECUMaster for supporting their distributors. That said, I think the incompatibility issues between the UK/AU and US versions should be more readily available. I almost pulled the trigger on a UK ECU last night - WOW! I'm glad I didn't. Let's hope this discussion shows up in Google searches going forward.
Zach - I'm assuming you're the same Zach I've corresponded with on the Supra forum a few times. Thanks again for your help. Moreover, thank you for updating the US website - I just assumed the US equivalent items were not really available (yeah, yeah, you know what they say about assume...). That said, I agree!! the EMU with the built in CAN is clearly the better choice (and the reason I almost bought a UK version!). So now that I know they are available in the US, I'd like to go ahead and get a USDM version. As an aside, you have two typos on the CAN EMU link added to the US website (1) with the CAN expansion, there should be 8 "spare" analog inputs (the UK website lists this as 8 and not 4) and (2) the price is listed as $1099 within the text (note, I will gladly pay the same price for the CAN equipped model as the standard one, lol - but seriously do you offer package deals or something if I order directly? ). I'm not sure how the business model works, however, you've put in the effort, so can I order this directly from you? Maybe I'm old fashioned, but I'd rather speak to a real person before ordering, can you PM me your (business) contact info?
Best,
Eric
Re: UK/AU EMU vs USA EMU
Contact info is all on our site, and thanks for pointing out the typos, we'll get those ironed out today. Shop phone is (817)523-9947Eric R wrote:Wow, I very much appreciate all of your replies!
A few points -
1) My concern was more about the features than dollars - once exchange, VAT, shipping, etc are included the price difference isn't huge (the UK products are a little over ~$100 USD less all things considered). That said, if I can get a superior product (more features) for less money - wouldn't it be crazy for me not to consider it?
2) With respect to support - eh, it's a good point but I feel like it's a little overvalued. Cut the BS - I've played this game long enough to know two things (1) if I mess something up - it's going to be on me to figure out how to fix it and (2) if something is genuinely wrong with the product, I'm going to be fighting to get it fixed. You know the risks you take with "racing" parts - especially with something as complex as an ECU. But I would expect the same with AEM, Megasquirt, Haltech, Micro Tech, etc, etc. That said, I'm looking to go with ECUMaster because - compared to comparable systems - the tuning software looks about as easy as falling down. Bottom line, as long as it's not DOA, and I can get a startup tune, I don't see myself having an issue.
3) I'm not offended by ECUMaster's choice to protect distributors in different regions. If anything, it probably costs ECUMaster (corporate) and helps the smaller re-sellers who operate at small margins anyway. I operated a speed shop for a number of years (a lifetime ago) - so I know what selling at a < 15% margin is like and I applaud ECUMaster for supporting their distributors. That said, I think the incompatibility issues between the UK/AU and US versions should be more readily available. I almost pulled the trigger on a UK ECU last night - WOW! I'm glad I didn't. Let's hope this discussion shows up in Google searches going forward.
Zach - I'm assuming you're the same Zach I've corresponded with on the Supra forum a few times. Thanks again for your help. Moreover, thank you for updating the US website - I just assumed the US equivalent items were not really available (yeah, yeah, you know what they say about assume...). That said, I agree!! the EMU with the built in CAN is clearly the better choice (and the reason I almost bought a UK version!). So now that I know they are available in the US, I'd like to go ahead and get a USDM version. As an aside, you have two typos on the CAN EMU link added to the US website (1) with the CAN expansion, there should be 8 "spare" analog inputs (the UK website lists this as 8 and not 4) and (2) the price is listed as $1099 within the text (note, I will gladly pay the same price for the CAN equipped model as the standard one, lol - but seriously do you offer package deals or something if I order directly? ). I'm not sure how the business model works, however, you've put in the effort, so can I order this directly from you? Maybe I'm old fashioned, but I'd rather speak to a real person before ordering, can you PM me your (business) contact info?
Best,
Eric