So - there I am reading about how to take the airbox off when I start to read about all these CAI things.

Can someone - without getting into a debate about the best one - explain exactly what they do ?

From my understanding it will enable me to get a louder sound (like having the airbox off) without and performance decrease?

What I really want is better sound (my Elise had a sports exhaust) but without buying a Sports Exhaust. I need to be able to cruise without really noticing it but then to enjoy it when driving hard.

Two other things....

Does anyone have any sound clips with just a CAI (no sports exhaust)
How much do they cost and who installs them

Thanks again

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Lotusman
[B]So - there I am reading about how to take the airbox off when I start to read about all these CAI things.

Can someone - without getting into a debate about the best one - explain exactly what they do ?

From my understanding it will enable me to get a louder sound (like having the airbox off) without and performance decrease?

What I really want is better sound (my Elise had a sports exhaust) but without buying a Sports Exhaust.

 

cold air = more dense!!!!!!

 

yeah, more air for your air to fuel ratio, therefore more POWA

 

I have the K&N set up w/ heat shield and it sounds awesome. My butt dyno really says I have a power increase but it is probably psycological. Install was easy about an hour, make sure you get all the hoses put on the right sensors or you will throw a check engine light.
What I have noticed with other CAI's is the different materials give it a different sound. My K&N sounds great, it has a loud noise like you are pounding on a hard plastic tube (deep thud). The others like the AEM and such have a sound like you are pounding on a metal tube (deep ping).
I payd $275.00 plus shipping for mine and I am happy with it but I would say the K&N is not as asthetically pleasing as other chrome/ aluminum finished CAI's.

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by S2SPENT2MUCH
[B]I have the K&N set up w/ heat shield and it sounds awesome.

 

K&N now make an intake with an anodized tube (like AEM and INJEN) which places the filter down low. It's called the Typhoon. Available in assorted colors. They still make the Aircharger kit as well.
http://www.knfilters.com/typhoon/69-1040.pdf

 

AEM makes the best air induction systems, no doubt about it. And the sound is amazing too. You'll hit V-Tec everytime just for the sound.

 

I have the Comptech, and love it. Installation was easy, and it sounds great. I primarily bought a CAI based on some advice I got on this board - I was concerned about engine bogging at high temps. Last summer we had too many days with temps > 100 )

 

[QUOTE]Originally posted by Russ
[B]K&N now make an intake with an anodized tube (like AEM and INJEN) which places the filter down low.