I didn’t even think about it being a secret, or I wouldn’t have asked. :)
I like the 8HP. The controller might be $1k, but at least there is an option. I know of at least one other option and I think it is 2 to 3 times that. But that one can be set up to work like it is a manual with a clutch so it could be kind of the best of both worlds.
I’m not arguing that a low cost option wouldn’t be good. I wonder if a stock harness and PCM can run the 8HP as a stand alone.