Wynode,
Not sure about that...i'm not saying that im right, but from what i have read its vtec first then intake runners.
Stage 1 (0-4400 RPM): Low-lift cam lobe and long intake runners.
Stage 2 (4400-5800 RPM): High-lift cam lobe and long intake runners.
Stage 3 (5800+ RPM): High-lift cam lobe and short intake runners.
"Most people confuse the opening of the short intake runners as VTEC engagement because of the dramatic change in sound. It is hard to hear VTEC at 4400 RPM using the dual-stage intake manifold because the long runners restrict flow volume to the engine in order to maintain flow velocity."
"VTEC engagement is 4400 rpm, the secondaries open up at 5800 rpm"
www.team-integra.net