[freesole]

Hi All,

I am planning to get an exhaust system for my wife's X3M. I was contemplating an Active Autowerke Midpipe but was told by a local shop that the new LCI's exhaust setup comes as a single unit (no clamps) and requires cutting to install. This would mean that going back to stock later on would be tough as it would require welding. If that is true (correct me if this is wrong information), does anyone have an opinion on what their favorite catback exhaust systems would be? I have seen these available. The Valvetronic is the least expensive.

• Dahler
• Valvetronic
• FI

I want the best tone possible but must be able to maintain valve control. Not looking to introduce drone or metallic tones in the sound.

[dmanb2b]

While what you were told is true, converting back to stock is easy using the two clamps use to install the midpipe. Exhaust setup is same on all f97s. I will have my resonated aa mp installed on Wed (comp exhaust), so will take some videos of before and after.

[freesole]

Originally Posted by dmanb2b

While what you were told is true, converting back to stock is easy using the two clamps use to install the midpipe. Exhaust setup is same on all f97s. I will have my resonated aa mp installed on Wed (comp exhaust), so will take some videos of before and after.

Would the clamps be acceptable when the car is returned on lease completion? I think that's the only thing I'd be concerned with in that case.

[dmanb2b]

Originally Posted by freesole

Would the clamps be acceptable when the car is returned on lease completion? I think that's the only thing I'd be concerned with in that case.

absolutely...it's cut exactly where BMW would cut the stock exhaust when service access is required, vs removing the exhaust as a whole.

[cutnsew]

Originally Posted by dmanb2b

While what you were told is true, converting back to stock is easy using the two clamps use to install the midpipe. Exhaust setup is same on all f97s. I will have my resonated aa mp installed on Wed (comp exhaust), so will take some videos of before and after.

Did you get the AA mp with the resonator installed? I’ve been looking at midpipes and want something louder but not the rasp that I’ve heard a lot of ppl get aroun 1-2.8k rpm. I do a lot of highway driving so that’s where my rpm’s hang most of the time. The rasp issue concern is the only thing keeping me from pulling the trigger on the RG mp.

[dmanb2b]

Originally Posted by cutnsew

Did you get the AA mp with the resonator installed? I’ve been looking at midpipes and want something louder but not the rasp that I’ve heard a lot of ppl get aroun 1-2.8k rpm. I do a lot of highway driving so that’s where my rpm’s hang most of the time. The rasp issue concern is the only thing keeping me from pulling the trigger on the RG mp.

I did and it sounds awesome. No rasp or drone of any sort. I just drove from New York to Montreal and back. It was awesome.

[2SG5]

I second dmanb2b . I think the AA single mid pipe is all that you really need. I have the non resonated version , I have not noticed a drone either. and its PLENTY loud with the valves open. This is what it should have sounded like from factory imo. Highly recommend.

[redbullfan]

If your going catless, get resonated if not get straight pipe for AA Midpipe

[freesole]

Maybe it's just me. Had the AA non-res midpipe installed and it's a decent volume bump but it's maybe a 20-25% increase on Sport + (at least from inside the car). It's not drastic. But I'm hoping the CG valve controller will help to fully up it up and then I'll judge again.

[danniexi]

Originally Posted by freesole

But I'm hoping the CG valve controller will help to fully up it up and then I'll judge again.

it’ll be a massive difference imo. my full akra downpipe back exhaust barely sounded louder than stock because of those damn valves.

[bedh8]

I’m getting ready to jump on the upcoming sales but can’t decide between the AA Midpipe, Remus Race Axleback or Active Autowerks Axleback (which doesn’t have any sound clips I’ve seen) but has a great price point. I want something that will produce the best sound and not have any issues with emissions, located in the Midwest. I have a non comp and it drastically needs some more sound, coming from a f82 MPE.

[cutnsew]

Originally Posted by freesole

Maybe it's just me. Had the AA non-res midpipe installed and it's a decent volume bump but it's maybe a 20-25% increase on Sport + (at least from inside the car). It's not drastic. But I'm hoping the CG valve controller will help to fully up it up and then I'll judge again.

Cant you just do the Fuse 203 delete “mod”? I did that on mine so that valves stay open all the time. It def sounds better but I can still barely hear the stock exhaust though unless I get out and stand behind the car. It being so quiet makes it harder for me to shift without looking at the HUD. I may want it louder than most though as I’m used to a 90s Camaro with long tube headers and catless that will consistently set off car alarms in parking garages (yes, redneck I know).

I’d like the RGSport mp, as it’s also on sale for like $830 and Ben seems very helpful on the forum, but I’ve read too much on here about the rasp. I’m planning on keeping my stock down pipes so it seems like the AA mp would be best. Any idea about loudness vs the H-pipe? I’d be frustrated to get a mp and only have like 20% increased volume.