I've had an Ebay intake for a year and counting, same filter (although I will be changing it soon) and have no complaints whatsoever.

I would much rather have an AEM or ICEMAN intake, but not to the point where I'm willing to spend 200 dollars to replace the one I have, for 1-2 hp.

There's a point where spending hundreds more dollars for a couple more horsepower in one car part becomes impractical.

However, I do not advocate buying Ebay headers, or cheap (not to be confused with inexpensive) engine or suspension parts, etc. But when it comes to an intake, as long as it's a CAI, it fits, and has a good filter, I wouldn't bother spending an extra 150 for 1-2 flywheel hp.
Just call me pragmatic though...