I have an RS.1 and and an RS.2 m both with standard exhausts. I understand the benefits of exhausts from a performance point of view but the last thing I want to to is to make the car louder. I occasionally go to tracks with strict noise limits and the standard car is very close to the limits. When I was at the Nurburgring in June they were pulling cars out and testing them at 4500RPM and those that failed were banned immediately. About once a year I ship a car to Europe (or collect one) and want to make absolutely sure I do not hit a sound ban.
What is the experience of those who modify?....are you able to manage the sound checks with no problems?. Important for me in making any decision here to keep the noise down.

 

Loved your Autoweek write up on your green 7.1 RS.

I think the akra exhaust is supposed to be more aggressive in tone than stock (in addition to all the other benefits), but not too loud.

 

FVD will work with you to build a system within your db limits. Otherwise, a system that maintains the OE exhaust control valves can usually be "forced" when necessary to keep things quieter by using one of several tweaks to keep the valves closed all the time. Akrapovic offers the "Evolution" system that keeps the valves in place. FVD offers a valved system as well.