I guess I'll have to play the devils advocate on this one. I removed the resonator on my SVT, and it deepend the sound, without becoming too much louder, and its defintely not harsh. It has typical cold rasp, but thats gone by the time its warmed up enough to get on it. I would think removing the resonator is a great place to start if you're looking to go the cheap route.

Current Ride: 1998 Contour SVT - T-Red, Res. Delete, K&N under the hood, broken side skirt at passenger rear jackpoint. Its FOR SALE, see the classifieds.