As I'm checking the repairs required off my list and the more critical ones are finally gone, I'm looking into replacing my rusted, holey exhaust system. But, man... I have almost no idea where to start:

Here's what I would like: Durability and quality are the top priorities. Price is a factor. Additional power would of course be welcome. A nice sound and style are far lower on the list, but I might pay for a little shine...

But the more I browse these forums, the less and less confident I feel about knowing what I want; Pipe diameter, the myths about backpressure, weight compared to stock, low-range torque loss, high-end torque gain, mid-range tuning... I mean the list just goes on and on.

I've purchased books on Honda tuning and am comparing what is in those to the notes I've taken off here and am finding both agreements and disagreements as to what I should really go for. I've looked into going just stock, I've thought about trying to put an Si system in; I've searched high and low for the elusive and no longer in production HKS dual-tip, but the more I see what's out there, the more I feel overwhelmed. What surprises me the most is the pricing involved. Dealers and mechanics in my area want to charge me over $800 for repairs; I say nuts to that. I looked in to getting it myself in stock Si trim, and I still couldn't get the price below $650 for the cat-back at my favorite auto-parts store. What surprised me the most is that the speed shop I go to had a GReddy cat-back for $609. I was shocked and to find that the aftermarket appeared to be cheaper than the stock!

I need some advice for this replacement. I want something nice; preferably stainless steel for its longevity (I think?). The cat-back is what I need; the holes are all over and the sound is getting worse. Is stock the way to go? Style-wise I'd like dual-tips, but I'm willing to settle for better. I'm sort of convinced that I shouldn't expect to gain any power with an upgrade, but like I said, I do like something nice looking. Also, I don't want it to be ungodly expensive. The aftermarket is so erratic in quality and price, I'd rather not get "tricked" per se, into getting less for more.

Or, in the end, does the whole thing boil down to opinion?

Sorry for the long explanation. I'm just so overwhelmed by choices, I'm just not sure what to do here...

 

If you have the money, Tanabe Medalion Touring.. Axleback with a single tip, one of my favorite exhaust systems. I think it's Stainless Steel too.
Cat back=Canister style
Axle back=OEM style