ok thats a whole lot of info !
So i'll give it a stab.....
First off dont assume the 'brand' makes the best component in each area. Often a mix can and does work well
choose the mod , then review equivalents in the field. Remember the APR badge doesnt mean its produced by APR
APR components get a good reputation , and are thoroughly tested but tend to be more expensive
(some quite rightly so like the HPFP , and others just have a markup so you could get elsewhere cheaper)
IC - Gets good reviews but fitting a twincooler (+OE IC) or a S3 metal end tank OE IC may be a cheaper option for the same gains (doesnt fit DSG cars either from what I remember?)
TBE - make good claims for power and noise profile. May wish to also consider Milltek and Blueflame
Carbonio - this is not an APR product perse , looks good but wouldnt expect the earth in hp gains
K04 upgrade - whole diff kettle of fish in terms of cost and parts etc , very good but pricey
APR software - good quality and the flash i chose after a lot of research, depending on the car you have also consider REVO
I did have a problem but it was resolved (stg 1 APR on Edition 30 GTI)
hth , if you can narrow it down to a specific product theres lots of knowledgeable people on here who can provide advice.
Remember the garage fitting these APR components is a factor to consider too