Another exhaust thread - confused
 

Ok....I recently bought a 'new' 04. In the 2 weeks since I've owned it I've decided that I'd like to change the cat-back exhaust to something with a bit more look and of course a better sound.
I've read numerouse threads on this forum and have become a bit confused. It seems like the front runners are Racing Beat and Greddy. It's kinda hard to 'select' an exhaust without actually hearing it. I'm looking for something more than stock (sound) but definetely not real loud and overpowering.
Does anyone know where I can hear these two systems and compare them...or can you guys actually offer kinda unbiased opinions? I'm open to other systems (I.e. - Borla?) as well but need to keep the cost down.
Also, how hard is the installation...can I do it myself?

Thanks

Alan

ps - in the past two weeks I've added strakes, clear corners, and painted the calipers on my Nordic Green silver! Wow, what a difference!

This thread is two posts above yours... check it out:
https://www.rx8club.com/series-i-aftermarket-performance-modifications-23/rx-8-aftermarket-exhausts-summary-16442/

... and I'm guessing you'd be happy with a Racing Beat or Hymee exhaust, based on your requirements.

Yea, I saw and read that thread....very informative and helpful. I guess I'm leaning towards the RacingBeat exhaust......although after reading more, I'm wondering if I'm really gonna notice much difference over stock for my $600?!?

Sorry to keep this going (or trying to).

I was all set to order the RB exhaust this morning.......

But....

after doing a bit more reading/research, I've talked myself into looking at the RX8Store exhaust (aka Magnaflow). The price is the same for both systems. I know that RB is a good product and talked up on this forum. My 'concern' is in reading threads, almost all say that the RB system is just a bit above stock in terms of sound (loudness). Almost no difference at idle through about 4-5k, then it comes alive. As far as the RX8Store system, from the 'little' information that appears to be out there (in this forum), those that have it like it and it's a bit more noticable from idle through 4-5k but not as loud as some of the others (I.i. - Greddy, Borla, HKS).
This is maddening. RB or RX8Store? I don't want a system that is overly loud but yet want one that is somewhere 'in the middle and can be heard a bit at idle through 4-5k.......anyone truly heard both side by side?
Sorry, but I wanted to buy a system in the next day or so..........
Thanks

Just to throw another kink if your dilemma. I did the same thing you did for about 6 months. RB, Borla, Hymee, GReddy. I finally orderd the GReddy and will have it installed this Saturday.

What made my mind up? I don't know. I was all ready to order the RB. In fact, had the phone not been busy when I called to order, I would have. I went back and did one more search on the threads (and there are a lot out there). I listed to the clip of both the RB, the Borla, and the GReddy again. Re-read some of the posts. I couldn't tell that much of a difference in sound between the RB and the GReddy on the clips. The Borla didn't sound as throaty as the others did.

It came down to the looks. I think the GReddy looks better from the rear. I know RB has a better reputation but I am a very visual person. After reading the posts, messaging some of the GReddy and RB owners, and the looks of both, I ordered the GReddy.

I know I won't be sorry.