Replacing mid-pipe, need some suggestions

Well, my mid-pipe (or resonator pipe, whatever you want to call it) has developed a rust caused split about 5 inches long right after it comes out of the second resonator cannister part. Anyways, the VIP Auto down the street from me lists the oem replacement pipe as going for $67, plus labor. I've been itching to due some modding to my car, either intake or exhaust, but haven't had the excuse or money. Well, now I've sort of got an excuse, but I still don't really have the money. My question is, should I just go with the stock replacement mid-pipe, or spend a little more, and invest in a performance one, which would fix my problem, plus start me half way down the road to a full cat-back setup. This way I could still use my stock muffler, and save up for a performance one. Who has the best deals on exhaust mods anyways?

if you wanna go performance down the road, i say skip the resonator. just get a mandrel pipe from the catback. im not sure how much its supposed to cost, but i was gonna get mine done at a shop a friend had his, and he said it was $30. i know thats probably illegal, and it might sound different with other motors, but from what i heard it sounded sweet at wot.

I say just save your money for the cat-back exhaust as that will completely replace everything from that point back. I've always had the philosophy of doing it right the first time. Only half ass if you have no other option. If you can wait, save that money! Just my opinion..

don't get rid of your resonator. its the worst loudest sound ever. A resonator isn't very restrictive. pretty much just the cat and the muffler. I also think investing in a cat back would be a good idea.