just saw this post and thought I would add my two cents. this was the first item I purchased for my 03 R6, and I cant even begin to describe how much I love this exhaust. like others have said, this is how a bike should sound. perfect tone of deep grumble. definitley on the louder side if thats something you're concerned about. I too ride with headphones, and I can hear enough of the exhaust to hear what the bike is doing. if I ever pick up an 06+ R6, I would love to pick up another one. I think I was one of the first ones to buy this exhaust, I picked it up for 200 brand new off ebay about 4 years ago. if anyone is on the fence about this exhaust, buy it. Ive received tons of compliments and I love getting on my bike because of this exhaust. heres some eye candy in case anyone was curious