OEM style air filter vs oiled cotton filter

[bigdoug]

So, I have to eventually replace the air filter in my vibe. I have considered going with a Spectre ($25) or K&N ($50) or other oiled cotton type filter. This would be with the stock air setup, as CAIs are rather expensive. Eventually I may upgrade.

Here's the thing though. While I have heard that cotton does let in a little more air, I have heard it also lets in a little more dust as well, presumably due to larger pores on the surface. I have also read the Bob Is the Oil Guy reviews on filters:
http://www.bobistheoilguy.com/airfilter/airtest2.htm
http://www.bobistheoilguy.com/airfilter/airtest3.htm

So, the question I have, is it worth the additional $20-40 for a cotton filter that I believe the only benefit is you can reuse it, and possibly lets in more dirt? I am assuming that the reason you get more performance out of a K&N or Spectre cone filter is because it's attached to a CAI or other aftermarket intake, and the performance is not due to filter, but due to the shorter intake that doesn't snake through the car frame all over hell and back.

I'm sure this topic has been argued before, but I'd like to hear your guy's opinion on it.

[vibenvy]

I avoid oiled filters as over-oiling can damage the MAF sensor. If you are wanting to stick with a drop-in filter as opposed to a CAI or SRI, check out aFe. They make drop-in filters that do not need oil.

[jolt]

Your right on all aspects, stick with the OEM and change it if you are worried about restriction. Filtration is restriction; the finer it filters, the more restrictive it is.

[circuitsmith]

Wait until shortly after it's rained (when the air is cleanest) and take a short drive with no filter.
You'll get the most you could theoretically gain.
And the gain will be the most with wide open throttle & rpm near redline.