use a cai over a short ram. intake temps kill hp and when your hood is closed it's not getting any cooler air (hotter air than when on the dyno). a large k&n style filter will be fine. the velocity stack w/o a filter doesn't do a whole lot. the aem cai tube is resonance tuned and helps speed the air through. i definately wouldn't put a stocking or hairnet (they will deteriorate quickly) because they will get injested when they break down.