Liking the updates, should look tidy when you get the alloys on I've got an Apiro filter myself (with an aluminium intake pipe to the throttle body)..I had a K&N Panel before..Personally I prefer the Apiro, it has more oomph top-end, and the noise I've kept my K&N though because I might swap back now and again, they're both good set-ups.. You could try cleaning the filter perhaps? Warm soapy water, dry it then see how it goes? Oh and it would be better if you can sort out a cold air feed to make it more responsive..I've got some cold air piping lying about but haven't had a chance to put it in yet..