I was wondering if anyone knew some sort of database where I could get actual information on the base STATS of armor upgrades and helmet modifications (for example, what are the helmet addons supposed to DO? What do the shoulders meant to "prevent dismemberment" do? What kind of stealth bonus do the Scout Shoulders give, or the Corporal rank unlocked chest piece?).

The unlockables themselves don't seem to be discussed anywhere, just the basic unlocking aspects.

I am confused as well about this. can Someone possibly enlighten us?

I think the armor upgrades are just for show, in Halo 3 I played in the Hayabusa armor and well it looked cool but gave absolutely no advantage in actual gameplay. So more than likely it's just to look awesome.

They say that they have an effect. Maybe they just have not finalized that area yet...or they are testing it out. I think it's cool if it gives a slight advantage. Nothing to much.

The armor doesn't have any advantages to it and, unlike Halo 3, u can't shoot at the persons gun or armor attachments on your armor.

where did you read this info?

As far as I know, the armor upgrades you get with credits are visual only. Maybe your thinking of Armor Abilities, which have nothing to do with the upgrades you can buy.

This is the website ive been getting info from. Anyone know a different one?
http://www.bungie.net/projects/reach

that is a very interesting question... however we are in a beta and should ocnsult the professionals about this rather than speculating and we could possibly make new armor have perks who knows we willl have to contact bungie progrmers on that.