I notice u r coming from a short ram. Maybe it would be louder than a CAI as it's much closer to the interior?
My CAI replaced the stock box so to me i wasn't bothered with the sound. My concern was the lost low end torque which was madeup once the cat back was installed.
Also my vtec crosses at around 6000rpm and the sound is noticable. But my car started to get loud from 5000 after I got some engine mount inserts fitted. Honestly I can't remember how it sounded b4 the mounts as it's been a long time.
So your vtec kicks in fine? No CEL?