Can someone give a little 101 on exhaust types, parts, and assembly? I hear references made to cat-backs, x-pipes, headers, mufflers, cross over pipes, and resonators. Would like to understand how these items fit together, purpose, and benefits. Can an install be done at home without welding (bolt-on)? Is it a requirement to tune afterwards?

 

Let me also add that I'm not necessarily interested in performance increases. Looking for an intimidating sound from idle to full acceleration and nicer tips. Needs to be a cheap solution if I'm going to run it by the wife.

 

Try this sound bite; GHL Bullets cat-back (from catalytic converters back, essentially just a muffler/tip replacement)

Nice tone, not too obnoxious, easy sounding at freeway cruise...

GHL Bullets

 

Look into the B&B PRT's for sound and performance. I have a set for sale that are brand new which can save substantial $$$$$.

 

some descriptions and purpose
stock Exhaust manifold are the cast iron piece near the spark plugs (note that the early C5 had a tube style) they keep exhaust noise down but are restrictive and cost you some power.
Headers replace this part, they are made from tubing (steel of stainless steel) they increase exhaust flow thru design therefore improve performance and sound.
X-pipe or H-pipe
this describes how the two pipes leaving the manifold or headers are tied together. X-pipe are suppose to improve system efficiency over a H-pipe. placement (front to rear) effects where in the RPM range that improvement happens.
Cats are the polution device that typically sit right after the manifolds.
Cat-back exhaust or mufflers
"Cat-back" this is the term used for all modern day muffler systems. on the C5 the mufflers site all the way in the rear of the car. There are no resonators on a C5. the cat-back systems listed in the previous post are good recomendations based on your request.
If sound is your primary goal with no additional cost for power upgrades and tuning. cat-backs are the way to go. Easy installation when the car is on a lift. no welding 4 bolts. check out Borla stingers
I think this is what you were asking for?
now make some noise

 

Thx for the info...cat-backs seem to be what I'm looking for. After a little more research it sounds like GHL Bullets seem to be preferred. Is there any type of tuning or engine adjustment that needs to be done after installation?

 

No tuning after install; i think minute adjustments, if any are needed for something like this, the car re-learns on it's own after 100 miles or so.