Well having driven both extensively, i cant tell the difference on pick-up but from 50 onwards, the ed30 really does push on better.
Dont always believe what the Journo's write about.
And don't always believe what Phil Mcavity writes!

The KO4 versions definately have more turbo lag and less bottom-end torque compared to the standard GTI. But yes, the standard GTI does loose out to the Ed30 from about 5,000 rpm. However, an S3 or Forge (or both) intercooler on a standard GTI will dramatically free up the top end.