Well, there will probably be many opinons offered on this. Here's mine. In another post today on this same topic, Geoff from Michigan asked about the same thing and Tony M replied, recommending Smithys mufflers. I believe I made this same suggestion on the list a while back. Tony's reply to Geoff's post lists the Web site for Red's Headers in California. They are one of the few places still selling Smithys brand. I based my recommendation on nostalgia more than technology. When I was 16 (about 48 years ago), Smithys were the only brand we'd ever consider, except maybe for a Mellow Tone or Cherry Bomb. My 53 Chev 3100 has the original engine with original Fenton headers, and it just wouldn't have been right to throw on a couple of standard cans that would maybe have run quiet, but restricted the flow and wouldn't evoke the same memories I have now whenever I drive it. Last week a 20-something female in my office asked me when I was going to get my muffler fixed. The same day, the 55-year-old female in the next office said, "Your truck sounds so cool!".
I'm listing a Web site here that links to a number of muffler makers. You can spend a lot for a stainless steel Borlund, or something like that, but give me an ol' glaspak anytime. The rule of thumb is: the shorter the louder. I got the 26" Smitty and I'd recommend it for most folks. My neighbor has Flowmasters on his three (Yes, 3) vintage Corvettes, and they also sound great, but are relatively pricey.
http://dmoz.org/Business/Industries/Manufacturing/Automotive/Parts_and_Accessories/Exhaust/
