Is it normal that when you shift at redline and engage the next gear there is a slight delay or lack of throttle reponse before the car begins to accelerate again? Its not a problem really, its just i guess im coming from a car with a better transmission, so i feel it can be better.

I think its either

1) a flatspot in the power band at 6K rpm (about where I fall from 1-2), which a SS would help
2) traction control (i took it off though and didnt feel much of a diff)

Anyone else know what im talking about? It just feels like im driving a non sports oriented transmission that doesnt want to be "shifted fast", Im missing that click-click no hesisation feeling

Now i realize a SS will reduce the length of the throws, but im not sure this will fix my problem with the tranny.

 

The short shifter will reduce your shift time a bit. Get it anyway because it's a great mod.
Solving the flat spot after shifting requires some changes to your driving style. Try running a bit higher revs in 1st before shifting. I don't really notice any hesitation anymore.

 

i shift when i hear the beep

it feels like some sort of electronic lag, like the car is waiting for the throttle signal before taking off again...

 

sounds like you hit the rev limiter...but that should be up around 9K RPM...not 6K.

 

The beep starts at 8500 but you can go a bit above 9K. (the tach over reads a bit)
This may get you above the 6K hesitation when you shift.

 

If you guys watched professional drivers who don't have the benefit of paddle/electronic-assisted shifting mechanisms you'd see that they don't bang the gears like you are trying to do. The Aisin tranny in the RX-8 is not designed to be hammered. It is designed for quick shifting when it is done properly. Try paying attention to your footwork as much as you do your hand work. Easing up on the force used to shift the gears will allow the synchros to do their respective jobs and will result in quicker shifts. Trust me and go practice your techniques. I am one of the few, maybe even the only one, on this forum who have hammered the Hell out of their car and had no transmission troubles that were the fault of the trans, itself.