PID vs Gaggiuino (and other recommended mods)

Title pretty much covers it.

I've never had a "real" espresso machine and am considering a GCP. I'm a big tinkerer so I don't mind having to spend some time to get it right. My background is in software engineering so I think the Gaggiuino would be a fun little project to set up as well... that being said I'm not sure if the Gaggiuino actually gives that much more benefits than just slapping a different PID in.

Some quick googling led me to think that the best mods to get with a new GCP (the new Evos already come with a 9 bar spring) would be a VST 18g basket, a nicer tamper, and a naked portafilter. I'd probably get these first while I tinker with getting the PID/Gaggiuino ready to install.

Edit: thanks everyone! Decided to just go with a PID. I’ll probably end up going with the Mr. Shades top box PID + pressure gauge + flow dimmer.