Can't compare XLR8 and Tanabe; its like comparing apples to oranges.
Both have their own favorable characteristics.

I honestly felt better throttle response with the XLR8; maybe due to its larger diameter and subtle resonator.
XLR8 install and removal was a-lot quicker with its euro style attachment method and hardware.
The exhaust sound from XLR8 is like a M6 were as the Tanabe is like a G35; both sound great but different.
Tanabe has a stock like mid-muffler; to "x" out the drone; but with that probably comes a more restrictive flow.

Bottom line;
If you want a more aggressive but not Greddy aggressive sound & HP; XLR8.
If you want a just a low and subtle exhaust note and looks; Tanabe.

I'm not saying the Tanabe gives less hp gains; this is from my own personal experience.

 

Great input!! I am considering both myself. The question that comes to mind is did you test both on your car or did someone else you know get the Tanabe on their car?? I see you also have the j-pipe, you thoughts on that? Noticeable improvements? louder exhaust? Thanks.

 

If you listen to Comptech sound clips.. Tanabe is going to be right about the same since its the same design. And yes due to the more restrictive air flow with the midmuffler, you will lose ponies. Comptech with the same design puts out about 7-8 whp out of their exhaust, and I think its about 15 whp out of the ATLP and XLR8 with the XLR8 being slightly more.

 

I had both on my car;
I'm selling my Xlr8 in the black market

 

Any drone with the Tanabe?

 

No catback will give you 15 whp alone on a TL. The XLR8 resonated dynoed around 7 whp on a 5AT base model, so add another hp or so for a 6MT. I think 11 or so is the max for these cars from a catback alone, which is around what the Greddy and ATLP will make.

And I will say I'm in love with my XLR8 resonated. After adding the J pipe/race pipe combo, the minor drone was 90% eliminated. It's perfect for me; not crazy loud, but definitely aggressive when I want it to be. The compliments never cease.

 

kudos to you buddy! I never knew race pipe would reduce drone...i had a high flow cat...

 

Cant wait 2 get my comptech next week.... Greddy is mean but 2 loud for me. Comptech should set me off...... Thanks for the comparison....

 

no drone at all; sounds amazing...just like comptech except alittle more subtle. Very refined and well designed system.

 

xlr8 all the way