Hey guys, sorry if this is a repetitive thread question, but I searched and couldn't find what I'm looking for...

I have a built n/a LS/VTEC in an eg hatch... mods are as follows

B18a1 block
P30 pistons (.25 over bore)
Ls Rods with ARP bolts
ACL bearings
ARP head studs
ITR Oil Pump
B16a2 head (right? lol.. 2000 usdm si)
2.5 new kid p&p
Crower all motor stage II cams
Crower valves (stock size)
Supertech Springs and Retainers
Skunk2 Intake Mani
Professional Products 68mm Throttle Body
PasswordJDM Whale *****
DC 1 pc 4-2-1 header (want a better one cause I'm sure it's choking me, but haven't decided on one yet cause I don't want to deal with ground clearance issues as this is my daily)
Tuned with Hondata

That's all I can think of now, so here's my question...

The exhaust that came with my car is annoying and junk, so I want new! Piping is supposedly on the way (hasn't showed forever, so I'm calling tomorrow for details) and if it isn't on the way, I might go another way. What I'm trying to do if this comes in is 2.5" custom catback with Vibrant muffler. Haven't decided on cat, no cat... If I can't do this, I love the sound the Tanabe Hyper Medallion Touring produces, but am wondering how much this and similar quiet exhausts (Apex'i NoiR, etc) will kill me with power!!! (that is my question) lol

Basically I'm wondering what I need to do/get to find a happy medium of power output and somewhat quiet exhaust!

So any input/info on this subject would be appreciated! Thanks for reading through my book ^!

 

Look for a DC JDM Type R 4-1 header, they're cheap and perform well for an off the shelf header. Run a high flow cat, a reasonator that's at least 18" -22" + if you can find one and a 2.5" - 3" exhaust with whatever muffler you want. You'll have a custom exhaust but it sounds like that's the direction you're headed anyway.