Honestly, I think most exhaust prices are absurd. I'd rather pay a shop to weld in an x, a couple of mufflers, and some tips. Of course some systems are tuned for zero drone or a specific sound, but to me, that sound difference isn't worth the extra $$$, and keeping my stock exhaust "for...
Would you consider yourself a poser? That's up to you. Would some other people consider you a poser? Probably. If it's important to you that other people don't think you're a poser, don't do it. If you could care less what others think, why are we having this particular discussion?
http://www.amazon.com/Anker®-Reader-RS-MMC-Support-Warranty/dp/B006T9B6R2
8 dollars and free shipping. Reads pretty much everything. Usb3.0. If it doesn't work, no big loss, or just return it. Amazon returns are easy.
I don't have any personal experience with boosted 5.0s. From what I've read, they're much more reliable under boost than the 3v motor that they replaced.
That said, I wouldn't boost a daily driver without cash on standby to replace the motor, a rental car if you don't have another option, and...