i'd argue that bang for buck the vibe is better value than the ion...
yes, you could switch out the standard board for the blackheart kit and firebolt combo. that'd give you eyes, a lighter board and the ability top fully control the settings on your marker.
with the B/H board you can lower your dwell and greatly improve your efficiency. you can also customise your firemodes too.
under our previous smart parts sponsorship this was the set up they gave us (on SP1s rather than Vibes, but they only differ cosmetically) and they could keep up with the best of them.
end of the day, you want to consider what's best for you. i'd suggest seeing if you can try some ther markers at training and/or walkons and see what you like the feel of.
also consider that vibes, eteks and old egos tend to be easier to sell on than the promasters as well when you upgrade again.