I have a 2.5" catback and have had barely noticeable low end loss, if any. Top end feels a bit better, but isn't earthshattering
I doubt the gains would be all that much different from the 2.25" catback. I bought the 2.5" thinking it would compliment future FI mods better... and now I'm selling my car... lol time for a wagon to haul all these parts around for my business... possibly one with an STi drivetrain swap 