For me, the following is what I believe: 1) Going from a plastic tamper to a metal one makes a big difference 2) Going from a badly sized metal tamper to a pretty well sized metal tamper makes a big difference 3) Going from a reasonably sized metal tamper to a custom made one makes a minor, but still noticeable difference HOWEVER, the thing that it does get you is consistency. It's one less thing to play up in the process, and one less thing you have to focus on. In addition, it's not majorly expensive in the scheme of things to make it easier to make your shots. I'm very happy with the Pullman Deluxe tamper that I have, and the purchase price will be long forgotten, but I won't need to buy another tamper until I change machines.
