Step one - Admit you have a problem.
Ok. I have a loud exhaust - 3.5 catback is not helping - Yes it has a mid muffler and rated a 93Db
Step two - Options
Apexi Active Tail Silencer - This works by a spring and seal which is pushed out via exhaust pressure, it fits into the exhaust like a normal cannon silencer and is dynoed at 16% all over power loss, which is acceptable for street use. It dropped sound overall by about 20% (no idea in db ratings)
Pros - Fairly cheap $200 in comparison to other options, Easy to remove.
Cons - Pain in the ass to actually be bothered removing, Abit of a eyesore, noticable to the police, noticable loss to HP/KW
Varex Exhaust cannon - Adjustable butteryfly valve which recirculates air through an external muffler to minimise sound, Sound drop is huge. I was hoping to weld it in after the cat as my catback is a N1 Mega Kakimoto with a very unique sound. What do people think about this possable?
Pros - Easy to work, Best at silencing.
Cons - Has to replace my current cannon which I wish to prevent, If replaces cannon you can see the butterfly, Exhaust size to large for biggest avaliable inlet they currently make, Will look tiny next to the 4.5" outlet cannon I have now.
Apexi Flange fitted Exhaust control valve - Worked via a manual wire which fires a butterfly valve to fully close, this would be pre drilled with 10mm holes to minimise airflow backup yet muffel sound (small holes is how a silencer works)
Pros - Easy to fit, Unsightly, Decent silencing, From what ive seen may be able to be hooked up to a motor/cog setup.
Cons - Controlled via big clunky cable and setup, may not be easy to trigger
Bigger, better mid muffler/hotdog - Currently the hotdog I have takes up almost the whole cat back its about 1m long so another hotdog would have to be revamped.
Pros - Cheapest.. Easier?
Cons - Chop up my nice SS system and will weld in some ugly mild steel crap.
So.. You've got the info, what do you feel is the best option? Do you think some of the ideas can be done and be sucessful>?