I've never tried soda blasting, but I have tried Goof-Off, goo-gone and hand cleaners and don't like them. I've found simple lacquer thinner works great with a good rag and modest amounts of elbow grease. I'm about to try vinegar on some of the newer plastics that tend to melt under lacquer thinner to see how that works. Vinegar does wonders for brass contacts in less than 30 seconds. Otherwise, Formula 409 is also useful. Nothing will help the tape once it begins to unravel except to wrap another layer of tape over it or after the old tape has been removed.
Soda blasting CAN change the shiny finish on plastics that had a shiny look or finish. However, the great thing again is not having to utilize ANY elbow grease. The other issue with lacquer thinner and other "agents" is they can tend to smear the tars, gunk, dirt, etc. into the plastics. They may also tend to melt the plastic or cause a reaction with the plastics. On wiring harnesses it makes the coatings appear brand new. Soda blasting is my preferred way and VERY VERY easy......