AVS carb metering rods & step up springs

Lighter step up springs give me better mid range throttle response but heavier springs give me more power with a light ping at the end during hard acceleration. Timing is at 5 initial w/o vacum with a total of 24 mechanical advance for a total of 29 before the vacum advance.

Because I am new to carbs I picked the Edelbrock AVS because it is a good basic carb. The carb runs a little rich according to the plugs with the stock set up. I like the lighter spring set up characteristic but hate to give up too much power.

My question is can I run the stock step up spring with a say a leaner metering rod and get the best of both worlds?

A rookie needs a little guidance!