harleydad1000,
I really like how they sound, actually louder than I was expecting but not to much. Yes, I did look into the Samson Pipes but kept thinking they would be louder than the Vance & Hines which is the only reason I went with the V&H. Both great quality IMO. I even thought about putting the Black Ceramic ones below from Samson on but decided to stay with Chrome/Fishtails for the Nostalgic look.
geezer,
All I can say about the heat deflectors is DO IT, you will not be disappointed.