Mason Blake
There are many options available for car enthusiasts who want to upgrade their exhaust system for a better sound. While the best exhaust sound is a matter of personal preference, there are some general tips and tricks to achieve a deeper and louder sound. One of the most common ways to achieve this is by upgrading the factory exhaust system with an aftermarket cat-back or axle-back kit, which can provide a more aggressive sound and improve performance. Additionally, modifying the muffler can significantly impact the sound. A chambered muffler, for example, can give a deep roar, while a longer muffler will result in a lower pitch.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Muffler type | Chambered mufflers give a deep roar, while free-flowing performance mufflers that incorporate hair or fiber-like material for absorbing sound give a deeper tone. |
| Number of chambers | Fewer chambers result in a more aggressive sound. |
| Exhaust type | Axle-back exhausts are easy to fit and offer power gains. Aftermarket cat-back or axle-back kits can improve sound and performance. |
| Exhaust system | H-pipes provide better low-end torque and a deeper sound than X-pipes, but less peak horsepower. |
| Exhaust tips | Megaphone exhaust tips amplify sound and are available in different lengths and finishes. |
| Pipes | Replacing stock manifolds with exhaust headers improves sound and performance by giving each cylinder its own pipe. |
| Filters | Upgrading filters or cold air intake can improve sound and efficiency. |
| Muffler delete | Removing the muffler and stock resonators can result in a louder, more aggressive sound. |
| Personal preference | Sound preference is subjective and can vary between individuals. |
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What You'll Learn
Mufflers and resonators
Mufflers, also known as silencers, are designed to reduce the noise produced by the engine's exhaust gases. However, they can also be modified or replaced to change the sound of your exhaust. For a deeper exhaust sound, consider a free-flowing performance muffler from companies like Borla or Magnaflow. These mufflers incorporate hair or fibre-like materials to absorb sound, resulting in a deeper tone compared to stock mufflers or those that use chambers or baffles. Additionally, a longer muffler will produce a lower pitch than a shorter one, and a larger diameter exhaust pipe can also lower the pitch without compromising performance.
Resonators, often referred to as "power chambers" or "resonance chambers", are an integral part of the exhaust system. They work in conjunction with the muffler to further reduce sound levels and improve the overall sound quality. By deleting the resonators or choosing not to upgrade them, you can increase the volume of your exhaust system. This modification is relatively affordable and can be an excellent option for those seeking a louder and more aggressive sound.
When upgrading your muffler and resonators, it's important to consider the legal implications. In some states or countries, modifying your exhaust system to exceed approved noise levels may result in fines, failure to pass inspections, or other consequences. Therefore, it is advisable to research the regulations in your specific location before making any modifications.
Additionally, keep in mind that the best" exhaust sound is highly subjective and depends on personal preference. It is recommended to listen to various exhaust setups online or at local car shows to find the sound that appeals to you before making any permanent changes to your vehicle.
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Exhaust headers
The well-designed exhaust headers produce what is called the "scavenging" effect. When the exhaust gases exit the cylinder, they create an "exhaust pulse", which flows out of the header tube and into the collector, creating a negative pressure wave. This negative pressure wave travels back up the header tube during valve overlap, removing any remaining exhaust gases in the engine cylinders and drawing in the incoming intake charge. This reduces back pressure, which is a bottleneck of exhaust gases that prevents the combustion chamber from getting fresh air, decreasing power output and performance.
Aftermarket headers are also designed to increase the volumetric efficiency of an engine, resulting in a gain in power output. The headers are tuned to a particular engine speed range, with wide primary tubes offering the best gains in power and torque at higher engine speeds, while narrow tubes offer the best gains at lower speeds. Many headers are also resonance-tuned, which helps to scavenge the combustion chamber during valve overlap.
In terms of installation, aftermarket headers are generally made to fit stock exhaust systems. However, it is always recommended to check with the manufacturer. Additionally, headers may require a tune, similar to when modifying the catalytic converter.
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Sports exhaust systems
A sports exhaust system is one of the first modifications enthusiasts make to their cars. This is because it is affordable, offers a small power gain, and instantly sets your car apart from stock models.
A chambered muffler will give you a deep roar, so look at the mid-to-aggressive systems that will fit your car. The sound waves from the exhaust are bounced around the chambers, which can reduce the noise level. If you want an aggressive sound, look for a muffler with fewer chambers.
An axle-back exhaust is typically quite easy to fit, and you don’t have to go digging too far under your car. These are full exhaust systems from the catalytic converter to the exhaust pipe at the back of the car. As well as the muffler and tailpipe, you’ll also get the mid and intermediate pipes.
There are several companies that offer sports exhaust systems, including Flowmaster, MBRP, and Magnaflow.
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Aftermarket exhausts
Upgrading your car exhaust is one of the first modifications enthusiasts make to their vehicles. It's an affordable upgrade that can offer a small power gain and make your car stand out from the stock models.
There are several options available for aftermarket exhausts, each with its own unique sound. Here are some of the most popular choices:
- Borla: Borla offers a range of exhaust systems, including the Type-S, Stinger, and ATAK models. The Stinger model provides a lower, growly tone at low RPMs and an aggressive tone when accelerating. The ATAK model can be loud when you want it to be and calm when cruising.
- Magnaflow: Magnaflow exhausts are known for their deep rumble, providing a nice sound for trucks. They also offer a quiet option for those who don't want an overly loud system.
- MBRP: MBRP exhausts are a popular choice for those seeking a slightly deeper sound without being too loud or droning.
- Flowmaster: Flowmaster exhausts offer a deep and lumpy sound, perfect for those seeking a unique tone for their vehicle.
- Bassani: Bassani exhausts are highly regarded for their sound, offering a unique auditory experience.
- H-Pipe: An H-pipe provides better low-end torque, allowing for quicker pulls. It produces a deeper and more balanced sound compared to an X-pipe.
- Chambered Muffler: A chambered muffler gives a deep roar, and you can choose between mid to aggressive systems. Fewer chambers will result in a more aggressive sound.
When selecting an aftermarket exhaust, it's important to consider your preferences for sound, performance, and legality. It is recommended to research and plan before making a decision. You can find a vehicle with a similar setup at local meets or car shows, or listen to sound clips online to help you choose the best-sounding exhaust for your vehicle.
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Exhaust manifolds
Stock manifolds are typically made of heavy cast iron, which funnels the exhaust gases from each cylinder into a single pipe. However, an upgrade to consider is swapping the stock manifold for an exhaust header, which gives each cylinder its own pipe, making it easier for the engine to expel gases quickly. This upgrade not only improves sound but also enhances torque and horsepower.
There are various options for exhaust manifolds, including cast iron, steel, and stainless steel. Some manifolds are coated with a ceramic mixture via thermal spraying, providing excellent thermal insulation, and are commonly used on performance production cars and track-only racers. Another option is to use exhaust wrap, which is cheap and simple, but can lead to premature degradation of the manifold.
When modifying the exhaust system, it is important to consider both noise and emissions regulations. While certain modifications can enhance the sound of the exhaust, it is illegal to modify a car's exhaust system to exceed the approved noise level for that model.
Some popular exhaust systems mentioned by car enthusiasts include the Borla Type-S, Steeda side exhaust, and SLP Loud Mouth 1s, which offer a range of sound profiles to suit personal preferences.
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Frequently asked questions
The best-sounding exhaust is subjective and depends on personal preference. However, some popular options include Borla, Magnaflow, and MBRP.
When choosing an exhaust for better sound, it is important to consider the type of vehicle, the desired sound level and tone, as well as noise and emissions regulations. Additionally, different exhaust components such as the muffler, headers, and pipes can impact the sound.
To make a factory exhaust sound deeper, you can consider upgrading to a free-flowing performance muffler from companies like Borla or Magnaflow, which incorporate hair or fiber-like material for absorbing sound. You can also look into changing other system components, such as the headers and pipes.
Some popular exhaust systems known for their sound include the Borla Stinger, MBRP cat-back, and Magnaflow cat-back. These systems often provide a deeper and more aggressive sound compared to stock exhausts.
Yes, it is important to consider legal requirements when modifying your exhaust. In some regions, it is illegal to modify a vehicle's exhaust system to exceed approved noise levels. Additionally, straight pipes that replace the catalytic converter may not be legal due to emissions regulations.
