[Surferjer]

There should be no warranty issues, and if there's a problem with the exhaust, at least in the case of Quicksilver, there's a 25 year warranty.

I have the QS and have heard both side by side. They are both loud, QS has been described as "throatier" by others, I would describe it as gruffer (you decide if that's good or bad), but both give you the pop and crack as you come off the gas. Sweeeeet. The price of the units is very, very similar, too-low-mid $600s. These are the differences:

1) Sound is different pitch-wise
2) Either can be installed by YOU (I did my QS myself), but the QS requires no cutting of the diffuser. Stage two requires cutting, which might mean you're stuck with the dealer unless you're skilled at this.
3) Both are much lighter than stock, but QS is even 4 pounds lighter than stage 2.
4) QS, because of no cutting, keeps you SCCA SOLO 2 compliant if you plan to race. Stage 2 does not, which is probably only an issue if you go to Nationals or something.
5) QS tips point back, like stock. Stage 2 tips point down, and are less conspicuous. I will try to dig up photos. This has been covered at length in the engine area of Elisetalk.

 

[Surferjer]

What Stan said. Here is a link to a bunch of it (but certainly not all):

http://www.elisetalk.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=6339

 

[Surferjer]

Another...

http://www.elisetalk.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=6594

 

[Surferjer]

Very cool, Stan! I of course have never heard it from outside the car except in the rain (doesn't count). I may have to have someone run it Sunday at the autoX (assuming I have her back by then). I should have followed you once to hear yours, and we shouild have swapped rides for a brief run to get a feel. Ahhh, next time...