4-2-1 branch manifold?? Differences and power??

[golf gti 16valve]

Hi peeps, im thinking of purchasing a perfomance manifold,what is the difference between 4-1 branch and 4-2-1 branch apart from the obvious, does it affect perfomance different?? also with a performance manifold will the car still run sweet?? ive heard ppl having to heat wrap all the manifold etc, would i have to do this,?? also would it make it louder as it replaces the d/pipe with frnt box??any replies much appreciated, many thanks ppl!!! 
oh its a valver as well sorry,

[Judderi]

I got a 4 branch and it makes a kind of tinny noise. Improves performace enough for you to notice the difference before and after and dont have any running issues. Ive also head of this heat rapping a manifold but i have no idea why.

[Daz...]

Heat wrapping the manifold keeps the temperatures down in the engine bay and basically replaces the heat shield on a normal downpipe as the 4 branch doesnt have one. I believe it also helps keep the gases moving more freely within the manifold.

If you do fit one then it is recommended to uprate at least the front engine mount with a harder one than standard due to stainless manifolds being prone to cracking from the movement of the engine.

[KINGS>]

my 4-1 did smooth things out and make it more free revving more so in higher rev band.. the 4-2-1 will give a greater midrange boost compared tot the 4-1 which is more top end..

[golf gti 16valve]

ok cheers peeps,mmm dont no weather to get one,might jus blob a bit oF WELD on the blowing downpipe, i hate that wet fart sound that comes from it,swear im losing power from it too. Could this be right in losing power??  

[Daz...]

if your exhaust is blowing then you will be losing a bit of power..and more than likely using more fuel than normal aswell

[sellers]

i changed my standard system to a 4into1 with full system, and noticed a lot of difference in torque, and its sounds so nice when being thrashed, but sounds sh!t like a tractor when just general driving, mines a magnex