Well $1,000 isn't bad for a full exhaust, I know a lot of other cars which easily crack $1500.
Changing the mufflers does change the noise, obviously you'd have to change the type of muffler to one allowing a lot more noise if you're trying to get a note just by changing the muffler.
The problem is, decent mufflers will set you back anywhere from $200-$600 as well :/
Two things I'd do if I were you, first take your mufflers off and see how it sounds (I don't recommend leaving it like this
).
Each to their own, some like it, some don't, it will give you an idea of what it will sound like by changing the mufflers.
Second, if you have an exhaust shop you know of, go in there and ask a few questions about what they can do.
I haven't had a close look at my exhaust for a while so I'm not sure what the 2.5's have, but depending on how many cats it has you may be able to delete one, change centre mufflers etc etc to change the sound as well.