Yes, I would think your could run a purely mechanical unit just fine. All you'll need is the ability to fasten it, such as a flange, and do away with the electrical workings.
I doubt you're hearing any WG activity. I don't know how the control circuit works on the EB, but I'd assume there is a solenoid which bleeds vacuum away from a WGA diaphragm, which keeps the WG flapper closed inside the turbine housing, allowing more boost to build.
More vacuum on the WGA diaphragm actuates the WG, resulting in reducing boost pressure.
Generally these activities are near silent in OE configuration. Especially considering the control circuit solenoids are controlled by duty cycle, which means they're almost constantly working to actuate the wastegates.
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