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Are AEM O2 Sensors Actually Special?

I'm just about to give up on the LC-1/XD-16 setup I currently have installed as it's never worked right. I've tried numerous combinations of grounds, 12V sources, and redoing connections and it's driving me nuts. No matter what I do the gauge (and serial output) reads an AFR between 21.5 and 24 at idle, and never drops below 16 when driving.

I'm thinking of just ripping the whole thing out and replacing it with an AEM UEGO setup, as the general consensus seems to be they're a lot less finicky than the LC-1. I've realized the way the shop installed the O2 sensor it's going to be a major pain in the ass to swap the sensor, though. I'd really like to just swap the controller and try using the sensor that came with the LC-1 first instead of the one that comes with the UEGO, but I'm a little concerned about a line in the FAQ on AEM's website:

Quote:

Q: Can I use a different UEGO sensor than the one supplied?
A: No. The supplied Bosch sensor is calibrated specifically for AEM Wideband UEGO controllers.

Q: Where do I get a new sensor from when mine goes bad?
A: You can purchase a new Bosch sensor from one of our distributors, or from our “Buy Now” feature on our website. The part number for a replacement UEGO sensor is 30-2001. To purchase, please visit our dealer finder or visit the “Sensors and Connectors” page of our website to order online.

Is this just a marketing line or is the AEM sensor really calibrated differently from every other Bosch O2 sensor used in a wideband kit? Would I be OK using the LC-1 sensor with the AEM controller or do I really need to swap over to the AEM sensor as well?

they do have something on them at the 6 wire connector, yes

The sensor is the same. However, AEM uses a proprietary connector, while Innovate uses the standard Bosch connector. For this reason alone, you will not be able to directly connect the AEM to the sensor.

unless you just buy it and cut off the connectors and splice the correct one on the new sensor...

Is that really a valid technique tho? I know the bosch sensors come w/ a calibration resistor that the factory installs, and its in the connector. No idea if the AEM's use a similar setup.

Are the Bosch connector shell and pins availalbe, for both the male and female side?

I know the wideband side connectors are available (14point7.com used to have part numbers and info on how to order them because he didn't always supply them with his kits) Idk if thats male or female, I'd be surprised if the other connectoer weren't available. One option might be to get the wideband end connector and wire it to the aem so you keep the factory calibration resistor in the bosch sensor, who knows tho :)