I don't get why people keep citing the dyno thread as conclusive proof that CAI vs. HAI doesn't make a difference.
Of course the car will make roughly the same power with an open cone versus a Thrasher box or other CAI setup – because the tune remained the same during all pulls. While using a CAI, the owner of the car failed to re-tune his car and add more timing to take advantage of the lower IAT… of course he’s not going to make any more power.
for someone like myself who doesn't now , or maybe will never have access to an in car tune , the information is relevant. now i know not to piss away hundreds of dollars on a CAI.