So I am planning on replacing the standard OEM filter but don't feel like putting on a CAI at this time. The three I am looking at would be either a K&N, AFE dry filter, or the ALTA foam panel filter. Going to each ones website and reading of course they all claim to be superior to the others. I doubt there is really any difference in performance gain between the 3 types that I would really notice and they are all priced about the same ~$50; and wanted the opinion of some owners maybe have tried a couple of the different ones on which may actually be better... pros/cons. I know I'll be keeping the stock airbox but do any of these aftermarket filters allow for a more noticeable turbo sound?

 

No difference in sound since you're keeping them in the air box. I used the AFE drop in and I noticed no difference in sound, gas mileage or performance.

 

K&N, same here no difference that I can detect. Reason I went with that brand was because I had a bottle of the special oil for after cleaning.

 

I have the Alta foam filter, it feels about the same as the stock air filter.

 

Did K&N's in two R56's and felt a slight increased in throttle response, on my R61 I did the Alta with around same or slightly better results.

 

I have had k&n air filters in the past.
Have always liked the fact that I can clean it, and keep using it.

As for power, it is hard to tell. I have been told that it adds 3-5 hp.

As for the aem cold air intakes, had that in a car in 2001.
Noticed a difference in sound as well as a little kick.

As for more power, had a mustang gt, changed the exhaust, cold air, and a sct tuner, and was impressed with the increase in hp.

 

Reading the posts , your wasting your money. Thanks for the tip lol

 

Seems thats the case from everyones response, I may hold out till I find the K&N on sale somewhere as its the most widely available and get the recharge kit mainly for the re-usability. Really wanted the DOS CAI but sadly they are out of business.

 

I would suggest going with our Dry Panel drop in filter as there is no oil to get in the MAF sensor. I've seen dealers give customers a hard time from having the K&N filters saying the oil messed up the sensor. With the Dry filter you don't have to worry about that as they can't say that or void your warranty. Also I don't think there is any power difference between the two.
I've been using them for years with no issue.
Also be advised you don't need to clean them as often as people do. We recommend only cleaning them every 20-30k miles, we see people do it every 3k which is hard on the filter, and the tests actually show that as the filter gets dirty it will filter out smaller parts as the dirt plugs up the larger holes.