I am going to build the Random Special CAI and I was curious as to which air filter to use. It says on the filter brand doesnt matter, but I just want to get that one cleared up. I was going to order a KN&N filter at Schucks and the dude said i should just get one from them, which isn't KN&N brand, it's like an immitation cone filter they sell. I was curious as to whether it really matters which one i get and HOW MUCH does it really matter (quality wise and affordable wise, cause it is only $35, and KN&N is more than that, so am i just paying for the name on the KN&N..?).

Also, for the time being, I hear that removing the air duct and resinator adds a 2hp increase or something like that. Does that really do anything for your performance or does it just change the sound a little?

 

I have an AEM filter and when I had my Intake installed, the mech said that I should wait untill I get a CAI to take out the resonator. I dont think that it increases performance though, just makes your car sound like it has a pair

 

IMHO, just get one that is washable / reusable like the K&N's
Do a search on "filters" Random had posted some good info not too long ago about filters.