Yes, there absolutely is a difference IMO/IME. When I first extracted DMT, I used acacia and q21's d-limo tek. The end product was always goo which contained DMT/NMT/β-carbolines etc. While mostly potent, it was difficult to measure and store. I infused this goo into mullein for ease of transfer and storage. All that was good and great but when it came to the actual experience, it would vary from next to nothing to blasting into the deepest depths of hyperspace. This was using a 1:1 ratio of spice to mullein.
Smoking the goo in any sort of free base pipe was even worse (and is considered one of the worst smoking methods, btw). Again, next to nothing would happen sometimes except for floors breathing softly. However, I accidentally broke through for the first time using this method. I just didn't like the inconsistencies. NMT is much milder in nature than DMT and since you will likely end up with a goo containing both, measuring out a proper dose goes out the window unless you know the ratio of DMT to NMT in your product.
Don't get me wrong though, I am not hating on Q21's tek. In fact, it is still one of my favorites as it started me on my path. I think it is a great place for people to begin so they can learn the basics. My point is that when I started using other teks, including the Cyb/Ew tek, I finally started getting crystals of pure (or rather close to pure) DMT using the same exact acacia. This finally allowed me to measure doses correctly and actually make some headway in my experiences. Worlds apart, IMO.
But I cannot sit here and tell you what you should or shouldn't do, I am just sharing my experience. Does the Q21 tek work? Yes. Are other teks more effective? Sure, but it all depends on what you are going for exactly.
Going back to the mini A/B, I could never get any of the goo to crystallize even after performing the mini A/B after Q21's tek. It cleaned it up some but not in the same manner as I have found with Cyb/EW tek. It was still goo.
I was like you and hated harsh chemicals at first but as long as you are careful and extensively research and understand what you are doing, you will be fine and the product will be very pure with no contamination. Well worth the effort in my opinion.
Good luck with whatever you do!
Edit: Just reread this and I just want to make it clear that goo is not a bad thing to get, it is just difficult to work with. Definitely don't throw it out or anything like that! :d