I must be alone in actually liking the noise Reckon the purpose supplied K&N pipe, or equivalent, would be better at reflecting heat though. Which it is designed to do with that silver stuff inside. A rubber hose might absorb more engine heat. Also I would say hands down it has been the best mod so far. Better mpg, better turbo spooling and hence a tad more get up and go. It even allowed me to use 3rd where I usually needed 2nd.