does CAI really make that much of a difference?
whats a pretty good CAI for the money?
more info on them would be much appreciated = )

 

no
aem/mazdaspeed
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yes it does make a difference... [sound wise]
AEM is the most common CAI [if there are others]

if you want sound go for it, but as for power gains you will loose or gain HP but it wont be that noticeable..

 

Or you can go the route of removing the VFAD (which you have to do for any CAI), installing a Racing Beat RAM intake scoop and mating it to the stock airbox with a K&N flat filter ($185 new; less pre-owned). - search saved

 

AEM provides an dyno sheet with their intake system, it shows around 8rwhp or so up top. I am pretty sure its optimistic..
http://www.turblown.net/store/index.php?productID=134

 

If you're not an autocrosser, it's all personal preference. Some people believe that a it's best to have a cold air intake to keep their engine healthier, though I'm not sure how much a CAI influences that health versus a hot air intake.

It usually comes down between K&N and AEM/Mazdaspeed (MS and AEM are the same intake). K&N sounds meaner; it's a hot air intake though. AEM is the best performer, has a pretty nice sound, and is a true cold air intake.

 

I second that if you DD your 8. Just waiting for my duct to come any day now...

 

Mazda spent years perfecting their Intake Manifold and their Cold Air Intake with OEM filter, time and time again it has been found to be the Best, and the OEM filter the Best.

Leave it alone, the only thing I do not like (personal) is the VFAD flap which can easily be disconnected in less that 10 seconds, leaving the auxiliary flap Open.

 

its loud i noticed throttle responce but not an excessive amount