Civic OTS Tune Comparison: Phearable vs TSP vs DRob

Civic Off-the-Shelf Tune Comparison — Phearable vs TwoStep Performance vs Derek Robinson (IMW)

The Civic tuning landscape for 10th and 11th generation 1.5T and 2.0T models includes several well-known calibration providers. Phearable.net, TwoStep Performance (TSP), and Derek Robinson (Innovative MotorWorks / IMW) represent the three most frequently discussed options among Civic owners. Each offers distinct products: Phearable and TSP sell pre-made off-the-shelf calibration files delivered as tune files for KTuner or Hondata, while Derek Robinson (IMW) offers direct custom e-tuning. There is overlap between the three — Derek Robinson is the calibration engineer behind the TSP Stage 1 and Stage One+ tunes, meaning a TSP OTS tune is a Derek Robinson calibration distributed through TSP’s retail channel. This article compares the full product lines, dyno results, features, pricing, and real-world owner feedback for all three. Sources: Phearable.net product pages, TwoStep Performance product pages, IMW website, CivicX and CivicXI forum comparison threads, owner reviews.

The Players — Who Makes What

Phearable.net. Operated by John Phearable, based in Ohio. Phearable sells pre-made OTS calibrations for Ktuner and Hondata across multiple Civic platforms: 10th gen Si and non-Si 1.5T, 11th gen Si and non-Si 1.5T, FK8 Type R, FL5 Type R, and 10th gen Accord. Phearable tunes are locked calibration files that the end-user cannot edit beyond the user-adjustable parameters (power levels, launch control, rev hang). Pricing ranges from $150 to $349 depending on the platform and feature level. Phearable also sells an optional datalog review service ($99) to verify that the tune is operating correctly on the customer’s specific vehicle. Source: Phearable.net product pages.

TwoStep Performance (TSP). Based in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. TSP was founded in 2017 and sells a range of performance parts and tuning calibrations. The TSP Stage 1 and Stage One+ calibrations were developed by Derek Robinson (IMW) specifically for TSP’s retail channel. TSP tunes are available for KTuner and Hondata across 10th gen Si, 10th gen non-Si 1.5T, 11th gen Si and non-Si, FK8, and FL5 platforms. Pricing is $195–$250 depending on the tune level. TSP offers a comprehensive installation guide and customer support for their tunes. Source: TwoStep Performance website, TSP Stage 1 vs One+ comparison page.

Derek Robinson / Innovative MotorWorks (IMW). Based in Carlisle, Pennsylvania. Derek Robinson is the owner and lead calibration engineer at IMW. He provides direct custom e-tuning services for KTuner and Hondata across 10th gen Civic (L15 and K20C2), 11th gen Civic, Accord (L15 and K20C), FK8, and FL5 platforms. Custom e-tuning involves sending a base calibration, receiving customer datalogs, and iterating revisions until the calibration is optimized for the customer’s specific vehicle, fuel, and modifications. IMW charges $400–$600 for a full custom e-tune depending on the platform. Derek Robinson also maintains a technical blog covering tuning platform comparisons, counterfeit spark plug identification, and calibration best practices. Source: IMW website and blog, TSP product pages.

Key relationship. The TSP Stage 1 and Stage One+ calibrations were developed by Derek Robinson and are sold through TSP as a retail product. This means that a TSP OTS tune and a Derek Robinson IMW e-tune share the same calibration philosophy and approach, but the IMW e-tune is individually optimized for a specific vehicle while the TSP tune is a general-purpose calibration. Source: TSP Stage 1 vs One+ comparison page, Derek Robinson blog (What to Choose).

Phearable Tune Lineup

Phearable offers multiple tiers within the 1.5T lineup, with the key distinction being Stage 1.5 (standard) vs Stage 1.5R (Race) vs Stage 1.5 + GOD Mode (crackle/pop calibration). Source: Phearable.net product pages.

Phearable Stage 1.5 (10th gen Si). The standard Stage 1.5 calibration for the 2017–2020 Civic Si produces 235 whp and 285 lb-ft on a DynoJet dyno (68 hp and 86 lb-ft over stock). Features include three on-the-fly power levels via cruise control buttons (Level 1 at ~19.5 PSI, 207 hp / Level 2 at ~22 PSI, 219 hp / Level 3 at ~25 PSI, 235 hp), rev hang delete, launch control, full throttle shift at 5,000 RPM, optimized throttle response, advanced VSA settings, and optional GOD Mode (crackle/pop on deceleration). The tune file costs $349 for the GOD Mode version. Source: Phearable.net Stage 1.5 + GOD Mode product page.

Phearable Stage 1.5R (Race, 10th gen Si). The 1.5R is a more aggressive calibration that Phearable states produces 249 whp and 302 lb-ft (13 HP and 24 lb-ft over the standard 1.5). Differences include optimized fuel and ignition mapping, increased fuel pressure, increased boost target from 25 PSI to 26 PSI on Level 3, increased low-end power, optimized 800 RPM idle for aftermarket motor mounts, and a raised rev limit to 6,800 RPM. The 1.5R costs $199. Features include the same three power levels and user-adjustable parameters as the standard 1.5. Source: Phearable.net Stage 1.5R product page.

Phearable Stage 2 for FL5 Type R (Hondata). Phearable’s FL5 Stage 2 tune for Hondata FlashPro produced 379 whp and 397 lb-ft on a DynoJet from a stock vehicle on 93 octane, compared to 296 whp stock and 326 whp on the Hondata basemap. With bolt-on modifications (intake, downpipe, intercooler), the same tune reached 391 whp and 398 lb-ft. The tune features five user-selectable power levels via cruise control (Street1, Street2, Race1, Race2, Valet), custom per-gear torque mapping, launch limiter at 4,000 RPM, rev limit raised to 7,200 RPM, optional pops and bangs, and custom traction control tuning. Requires Hondata FlashPro and ECU jailbreak. Price is $299 for the tune file only. Source: Phearable.net FL5 Stage 2 product page.

Phearable approach. Phearable tunes are locked calibration files. The end-user cannot modify fuel, ignition, or boost tables. User-adjustable parameters are limited to the pre-configured power levels, launch control RPM, and sensor disables. Tune revisions for modification changes are available as a separate revision service. The files are emailed within 2–3 business days (or 1 business day for a $40 rush fee). Phearable tunes are available for KTuner and Hondata depending on the platform. Source: Phearable.net product pages.

TwoStep Performance (TSP) Tune Lineup

TSP offers two primary OTS calibration tiers: Stage 1 and Stage One+ (Si models). Both were developed by Derek Robinson. Source: TSP Stage 1 vs One+ comparison page.

TSP Stage 1 (10th gen non-Si 1.5T). For the 2022+ non-Si 1.5T Civic, TSP Stage 1 produces 191 whp and 227 lb-ft on a DynoJet, compared to 154 whp and 163 lb-ft stock. Peak gains are 37 whp and 64 lb-ft. The tune features three MAP slots via KTuner’s on-the-fly map switching: Map 1 at stock boost targets, Map 2 at 16.5 PSI, and Map 3 at 24 PSI. For Hondata FlashPro users (no map switching), the single calibration runs Map 3 parameters. The tune is compatible with basic bolt-on parts. Price is $195. Source: TwoStep Performance TSP Stage 1 Non-Si product page.

TSP Stage 1 (10th gen Si 1.5T). For the 2017–2020 Civic Si, TSP Stage 1 produces 237 whp and 281 lb-ft on a DynoJet, compared to 182 whp stock and 208 whp on a KTuner starter 23 PSI base map. Map 3 runs 24.5 PSI in Sport Mode. Compatible with stock through full bolt-on configurations. 93 octane recommended, 91 minimum. Price is approximately $195. Source: TSP Stage 1 vs One+ comparison page, CivicX TSP Stage 1 Si thread.

TSP Stage One+ (10th gen Si). The One+ is an evolution of the Stage 1 with more aggressive tuning strategy. It produces 248 whp and 290 lb-ft on a DynoJet, compared to 234 whp and 279 lb-ft for the Stage 1 on the same dyno. Map 3 runs 26 PSI with or without Sport Mode. 93 octane is required (can blend 1–2 gallons of pump E85 with 91 octane). An upgraded clutch is recommended. The One+ has numerous fuel, ignition, turbo response, and throttle response changes over the Stage 1. Price is approximately $250. Source: TSP Stage 1 vs One+ comparison page.

TSP approach. TSP tunes are pre-made OTS calibrations. The non-Si version ships with three map slots on KTuner (Map 1 stock, Map 2 medium, Map 3 max power). The Si Stage 1 and One+ use a similar three-map approach. TSP tunes are compatible with stock through full bolt-on configurations but are not individually optimized for each customer’s specific vehicle. The tune files are digitally delivered and non-refundable. TSP explicitly cautions customers not to compare “stage numbers” across different vendors, as there is no standardized meaning. Source: TSP product pages.

Derek Robinson / IMW — Custom E-Tuning

Derek Robinson AT Innovative MotorWorks offers direct custom e-tuning services for KTuner and Hondata. Unlike OTS tunes, a custom e-tune is developed specifically for the customer’s vehicle, fuel, modifications, and conditions through an iterative datalogging process. Source: IMW website and FAQ.

The e-tuning process. The customer purchases an e-tune service from IMW ($400–$600 depending on platform and complexity). IMW sends a base calibration file tailored to the customer’s listed modifications. The customer flashes the base calibration, records datalogs (typically 3rd gear WOT pulls and cruise driving), and sends the logs to IMW for analysis. Derek Robinson reviews the logs, identifies areas for optimization (fuel trims, boost targeting, ignition timing, knock response), and sends a revised calibration. The process repeats until the calibration is dialed in. The number of revisions is typically 3–6 depending on how well the initial parameters match the vehicle. Source: IMW FAQ, IMW blog.

What a custom e-tune provides that OTS does not. Individual fuel trim optimization for the specific vehicle’s fuel quality and injector variance. Boost targeting calibrated for the specific intake, intercooler, and exhaust combination on the car, rather than a generalized target for “stock to FBO.” Ignition timing optimized for the customer’s fuel octane and ambient conditions (an OTS tune designed for 93 octane may not be safe on borderline 91 octane in hot weather). Traction control and torque management settings dialed to the specific tire and suspension setup. The tuner can address any unusual sensor readings or mechanical issues detected in the logs. Source: IMW blog (What to Choose).

Derek Robinson’s tuning philosophy. Based on his published blog content, Derek Robinson prefers KTuner as a tuning platform for the 1.5T Civic platform. His detailed KTuner vs Hondata comparison (December 2020) outlines several advantages of KTuner: target-based (not limit-based) control logic, raised fuel pressure targets (21,000 kpa vs 18,000 kpa on Hondata), ability to use the same tuning hardware across different vehicle families, visible Misfire counter for diagnostic use, and accurate return-to-stock function. He notes that Hondata’s primary advantages are live tuning capability, FlexFuel support on FK8, and per-cylinder knock retard logging. Robinson has extensive experience with both platforms, having developed starting calibrations for multiple companies and tuned thousands of 10th gen Civics and Accords. Source: IMW blog (What to Choose).

Direct Comparison — Phearable 1.5R vs TSP Stage 1 / One+ vs DRob Custom (Si 1.5T)

For the 10th gen Civic Si (1.5T), the three options sit at different price points and performance levels. Dyno numbers should be compared carefully because they come from different dynos on different days on different vehicles. The Phearable and TSP numbers are from their respective vendor dynos, while DRob custom numbers vary by customer vehicle. Source: CivicX comparison threads, vendor product pages.

Non-Si 1.5T Comparison

For the non-Si 1.5T Civic (10th and 11th gen), the options are more limited — neither Phearable nor TSP offer a Stage One+ equivalent for the non-Si platform. The non-Si comparison is between Phearable Stage 1.5 and TSP Stage 1, both targeting similar power levels with different approaches. Source: CivicX non-Si tune comparison threads, vendor product pages.

Non-Si note. The TSP Stage 1 non-Si was tested on a CVT-equipped 2022 Civic with peak gains of 37 whp and 64 lb-ft. The tune limits boost at low speed for traction and keeps torque within CVT-safe parameters. TSP notes that output was “slightly limited to avoid risk of damage to the factory engine and transmission.” Phearable’s non-Si 1.5 tune also runs lower boost than the Si version for CVT and stock engine safety. Source: TSP Stage 1 Non-Si product page, Phearable.net non-Si product page.

FL5 Type R Comparison — Phearable Stage 2 vs TSP Stage 1 vs DRob Custom

For the FL5 Civic Type R, Phearable and TSP both offer Hondata-based OTS tunes, and DRob offers custom e-tuning through the COBB platform. Source: Phearable.net FL5 Stage 2 product page, CivicXI FL5 tuning discussion.

Owner Feedback and Community Consensus

CivicX and CivicXI forum discussions. The most common comparison thread on CivicX is “TSP vs Phearable” for the 1.5T platform, with hundreds of posts spanning multiple years. The general consensus among owners who have tried both is that both are well-calibrated OTS options and the difference on a stock car is small. Key themes from forum discussions (CivicX, CivicXI, 11th Gen Forum):

Power feel. Owners who have tried both Phearable 1.5R and TSP Stage 1 back-to-back on the same car report that the Phearable 1.5R feels stronger in the midrange due to the higher boost target (26 PSI vs 24.5 PSI) and more aggressive ignition timing. TSP Stage 1 is described as smoother and more linear, with better throttle modulation for daily driving. The TSP One+ is closer to the Phearable 1.5R in power feel but with the same smooth calibration characteristics. Source: CivicX Phearable 1.5R vs TSP Stage 1 thread, CivicXI TSP vs Phearable thread.

Daily drivability. Multiple owners report that TSP tunes (both Stage 1 and One+) have better low-throttle response and more natural part-throttle behavior than Phearable, which some describe as more aggressive off-idle. Phearable’s throttle mapping is tuned for responsiveness, which some owners prefer for spirited driving but find less smooth in stop-and-go traffic. TSP’s calibrations prioritize a factory-like driving experience at part throttle with aggression reserved for WOT. Source: CivicX TSP vs Phearable non-Si report card thread.

Customer support. John Phearable is active on CivicX and provides direct support to customers tuning his calibrations. TSP’s customer support is handled through their website and email. Derek Robinson at IMW provides direct e-tuning support with typically 24–48 hour turnaround on revisions. Source: Multiple CivicX and CivicXI threads.

Which makes more power — Phearable or Derek Robinson? This question was directly asked on CivicX in 2021. The general answer from the community is that a DRob custom e-tune can make more power than an OTS tune from any vendor because it is optimized for the specific vehicle and fuel. On a stock turbo 1.5T Si, a DRob custom tune typically matches or slightly exceeds the peak numbers of the Phearable 1.5R (250–260 whp range) with better consistency across different ambient conditions. The tradeoff is price — a custom e-tune costs 2–3x the price of an OTS tune. Source: CivicX “Who makes more power — Phearable or Derek?” thread.

Dyno accuracy disclaimer. All dyno numbers in the vendor tables come from different DynoJet dynamometers on different days with different atmospheric conditions. The same car running a TSP Stage 1 on one dyno and a Phearable 1.5R on another dyno two weeks later could show a 10–15 whp difference just from dyno variation. The numbers are useful for understanding relative differences within each vendor’s lineup but should not be treated as absolute comparisons between vendors. Source: CivicX dyno comparison discussion.

Choosing Between Phearable, TSP, and DRob

Choose Phearable 1.5R if: You want the highest claimed peak power from an OTS tune at the lowest price ($199). You prefer an aggressive calibration with immediate throttle response and don’t mind slightly less refined part-throttle behavior. You want three on-the-fly power levels accessible from the steering wheel. You want the option of GOD Mode (crackle/pop calibration). You want optional datalog review to verify your specific car’s operation. Sources: Phearable.net product pages, CivicX owner reviews.

Choose TSP Stage 1 if: You want a proven OTS calibration developed by Derek Robinson, distributed at an affordable price ($195). You prefer a smooth, factory-like part-throttle experience with strong WOT performance. You want three map slots (KTuner) with clearly defined boost targets. You drive a non-Si and want a CVT-safe calibration with documented dyno results. You want a calibration that works well across stock to full bolt-on configurations without requiring a retune. Source: TSP product pages, TSP Stage 1 vs One+ comparison, CivicX TSP thread.

Choose TSP Stage One+ if: You have a manual Si and want the most aggressive OTS calibration available from TSP/DRob (248 whp / 290 lb-ft). You have 93 octane fuel consistently available. You have or are planning an upgraded clutch. You want Derek Robinson’s calibration approach without the cost of a full custom e-tune. Source: TSP Stage 1 vs One+ comparison page.

Choose Derek Robinson / IMW custom e-tune if: You want a calibration individually optimized for your specific vehicle, fuel quality, modifications, and driving conditions. You are running modifications outside the “stock to FBO” envelope (big turbo, upgraded HPFP, flex fuel, built engine, etc.). You are willing to invest $400–$600 and spend time recording and sending datalogs. You want the tuner to diagnose any mechanical issues or sensor anomalies visible in the logs. You want the ability to have the calibration revised if you change modifications. Source: IMW FAQ and blog, CivicX custom tune discussion.

Platform Considerations — KTuner vs Hondata

The tuning platform choice (KTuner or Hondata) affects which OTS tunes are available. Phearable offers both KTuner and Hondata versions depending on the platform. TSP also offers both. Derek Robinson tunes both but has publicly stated a preference for KTuner on the 1.5T platform. Source: IMW blog (What to Choose).

KTuner advantages per Derek Robinson. Target-based boost and throttle control (not limit-based), which eliminates oscillations. Raised fuel pressure to 21,000 kpa on L15 models, increasing effective injector size by 16% for improved high-load fueling. Cross-vehicle hardware compatibility — the same KTuner unit can be used on a different vehicle family. Visible misfire counter for injector diagnostics. Accurate return-to-stock that restores the exact original software number. Lower hardware cost than Hondata FlashPro. Source: IMW blog (What to Choose).

Hondata advantages per Derek Robinson. Live tuning capability (changes applied without full reflash). FlexFuel support with ethanol content compensation on FK8. Ignition-based traction control strategy on FK8. Per-cylinder knock retard logging. Hondata Mobile APP for live data monitoring. More polished software interface. Source: IMW blog (What to Choose).

Practical impact. For the 1.5T Civic, KTuner is the more common platform for OTS tunes from both Phearable and TSP because of the three-map switching capability (KTuner supports on-the-fly map switching; Hondata FlashPro does not). For the FL5 Type R, Hondata is the more common platform because COBB AccessPort support arrived later and requires bench unlock. Phearable’s FL5 tunes are Hondata-only. Source: CivicXI FL5 tuning discussion, vendor product pages.

Quick Reference Checklist — Choosing Your Civic Tune

☐ Identify your platform (10th gen Si, 10th gen non-Si, 11th gen Si, 11th gen non-Si, FK8, FL5) — this determines which tune options are available and which tuning platform you need.

☐ Decide between OTS and custom: OTS is $175–$250, no datalogging required, immediate delivery. Custom e-tune is $400–$600, requires 3–6 revision cycles, better optimization. For a stock car on quality fuel, an OTS tune delivers 90% of the benefit.

☐ Choose your tuning platform: KTuner for 1.5T Civics (map switching, lower cost, cross-vehicle compatibility) or Hondata for FL5/DE5 (mature support, live tuning). COBB for FL5 if you prefer the AccessPort ecosystem.

☐ For Phearable: choose Stage 1.5R ($199) for max power on the Si, Stage 1.5 ($349) if you want GOD Mode, or Stage 2 ($299) for FL5 Type R. Add datalog review ($99) for peace of mind.

☐ For TSP: choose Stage 1 ($195) for a proven, smooth calibration on any 1.5T platform. Choose Stage One+ (~$250) for the Si if you want more aggression and have 93 octane. Stage 1 is CVT-safe; One+ requires an upgraded clutch on manual cars.

☐ For Derek Robinson / IMW: choose a custom e-tune ($400–$600) if you have modified fuel/air systems, run ethanol, want per-vehicle optimization, or need ongoing tuner support for future modification changes.

☐ Confirm fuel availability: 93 octane is recommended for all OTS Stage 1/1.5R/One+ calibrations. 91 octane is the minimum for most. Custom tunes can be calibrated for any specific fuel. Ethanol blending requires a flex fuel kit and custom tuning.

☐ Verify compatibility with your specific ECU software number before purchasing — OTS tune files are platform-specific and non-refundable. Check your KTuner serial number or Hondata software version before ordering.

☐ After flashing any tune: verify knock retard stays at 0 at WOT, fuel trims stay within +/- 5% at cruise, and boost targets are reached consistently. Log a 3rd gear WOT pull and review before extended hard driving.