Ok well ive got my tpi n/a and i figure if im gunna run it n/a (until the nitrous comes along later on down the road)..im run some good timing. Now here are the specs on my engine but i need some things explained.

Engine
-350 bored .30 over to a 355
-K&B Claimer Domed(popup)hypereutectic pistons
-Comp Cams Roller Cam - 224I,230E @.50/
.513"I,.520"E
-Comp Cams roller tipped rockers (1.52:1)
-Comp Cams 1.437 dia duel valve springs
-Comp Cams locks, retainers and 11/32 teflon seals
-Heads resurfaced and machined to accept cam hardware
-Ported stock cast iron heads
-Heavy duty push rods
-Underdrive pullies

Intake and fuel
-Ported stock TPI upper and lower intake
-K&N filters
-Holley Twin 58mm throttle body
-BBK adjustable fuel pressure regulator (35-70 PSI)

Exhaust
-Heddman 1 5/8" shorty headers
-Heddman 2 1/2 inch Y pipe
-3 inch custom catback with 3.5 inch chrome tips

Ignition and computer
-Taylor 8mm wires
-Accel 300+ digital ignition
-Accel performance cap and rotor
-MSD Blaster coil
-Mallory coil wire
-Mr.Gasket 160* thermostat
-Custom engine matched prom from pcmforless.com

Transmission and Rearend
-Corvette Servo
-3.73 gears

Now i have my base timing set to 8 degrees. however since i have that chip in it doesnt that increase my timing anyway for better performance? Basically my question is what does base timing do exactly?..since the ecm controls timing... how would even changing my base timing affect performance? and What kinda of base timing should i be running with all those mods?