This is total timing
"The centrifugal advance system in a distributor advances spark timing purely as a function of engine rpm (irrespective of engine load or operating conditions), with the amount of advance and the rate at which it comes in determined by the weights and springs on top of the autocam mechanism. The amount of advance added by the distributor, combined with initial static timing, is "total timing" (i.e., the 34-36 degrees at high rpm that most SBC's like). Vacuum advance has absolutely nothing to do with total timing or performance, as when the throttle is opened, manifold vacuum drops essentially to zero, and the vacuum advance drops out entirely; it has no part in the "total timing" equation."
Yes this is confusing,but 99 percent of people and manufacturers use this as the definition of total timing. Vacuum advance even though added,which raises timing at light loads (because it needs it for optimal burn because its lean) is considered a separate number in the equation. You are going to want around 45* at light throttle loads.
O.P. Google articles on setting total timing so you have a good understanding of how to set it.
While you're googling things, Google MBT ( minimum best timing) ( minimum best torque) because after you get basically set up I'm going to teach you how to find it and set it. Too much timing even without audible ping is not necessarily the best timing for power and mpg.
