wow you have the worst of luck, unfrotunately it is NOT illegal to have a LOUD exhaust in NYC...have you heard all them f*ckin hondas and ricers...their exhausts are WAY louder than any aftermarket exhaust i've heard for any other car...its like they cherish the loud and annoying buzzing sound...im pretty sure you can fight the tickets if you have your cats on....if you have no cats then you are just screwed.