I agree that I do like the sound of an x-pipe without cats on a 5.0. But, note what I say at the end.
Also many States/areas, they have noise pollution laws. And, the increased sound will not be legal. Also, it's a violation of Federal Law to remove pollution control equipment.
So, if someone doesn't have to pass smog, doesn't have to worry about noise laws, and doesn't drive the car much (we are talking about 20+ year old cars), and someone wants the
sound of an exhaust without cats, then I see it as personal choice.
Still as I said,
do NOT remove the cats to "gain HP". Unless it's a quarter mile track car, the
LOSS of lower RPM torque and HP will NOT make the car faster or help it get better gas mileage.
FWIW: I have both. In fact, I have all "Four"!
1)
BBK X-pipe with cats.
2) BBK X-pipe without cats.
3) BBK H-pipe with cats,
4) BBK H-pipe without cats.
BBK often has very good deals on returns. Just gotta keep checking. I've been checking for the past 10+ years. So, don't expect to find the deal you;re looking for in a short time.
For me, I like sound the BBK X-pipe with cats the best.