Building Boost on 2 step

I am currently setting up my 2 step, I am able to get it to build good boost however, would it be possible to do the same thing on a "softer" limiter?

I don't like the loud popping and banging sounds very rough on the engine. I have heard some cars build boost on the track and their limiter sounds much softer than mine. Maybe it would be better to rev it higher with less timing retard? Would playing with the limiter type be going in the right direction?

Can you mix timing retard with fuel cut. I think it is very setup dependant, how much energy you need to wind it up.