View Full Version : A.W.E. S4 Exhaust Impressions [Vid/Pics]
agkellyboy
02-26-2010, 11:39 AM
As some of you may know, A.W.E. used my dad's car for their exhaust tuning development. It was a lengthy process, but Todd and Alex were great about giving updates and making it all go smoothly for my dad who was without his new love for nearly a month. The production exhaust was put on this week and fortunately I'm home from school this weekend and got to give it a try. So without further ado:
Incredible. I have driven, driven in, and heard countless cars with aftermarket exhausts, and none have sounded this good. Drone? What's that? Cruising around you can hold a perfectly civil conversation, which is pretty much impossible in my Avant drone box. What I love in particular is that it feels like the exhaust 'knows' when you want it to be there, and when it should just be a slight rumble over stock. In second gear, all it takes is a tap of the throttle and the music is simply amazing. Since delivery I knew the DSG shifts coupled with an exhaust would sound dirty, and A.W.E. nailed it perfectly. I'm disregarding butt dyno since being away at school makes everything that isn't a ZipCar seem fast, but I definitely could see the normal hp bump you'd expect from aftermarket exhausts. Huge respect goes out to Todd, Alex, John and the engineers at A.W.E. for making such a groundbreaking system.
I have a very busy night, but tomorrow will bring photos and video.
Specs:
Downpipe back system that is designed for both the S-tronic and 6sp cars and the resonated downpipes which will fit both S-tronic and 6sp cars but are really recommended for S-tronic to control overall volume.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ixPaxvqBCY
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4006/4395262183_cde8461e02_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4052/4395258669_0c75f924e2_b.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2497/4396020296_2a78d3c2c7_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4033/4395251729_59f25c538c_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4060/4395254249_95d8132401_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4049/4395253269_4e265e389c_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4029/4396036074_75ae024a5a_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4061/4395263105_6bab0b732a_b.jpg
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2684/4395264123_ec4e099097_b.jpg
Zed 2.0
02-26-2010, 11:55 AM
Nice. How loud are the DSG "burps" on aggressive upshifts?
toaster
02-26-2010, 12:03 PM
he said he's gonna post a video...
but to answer your question, i think they are a 6.5 out of 10, hah.
what answer could he give you in text-form that would more sufficiently quell your curiosity than a video with audio?
Zed 2.0
02-26-2010, 12:04 PM
Thanks, I wasn't asking you, I was asking somebody who has a DSG S4 with the AWE exhaust.
Most-Wanted
02-26-2010, 12:19 PM
So this is a complete downpipe back system??? I didnt see that mentioned anywhere and the pics they have up are just exhaust.
raaab2536
02-26-2010, 01:00 PM
I was interested so I looked it up on youtube and theres a little clip of it: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2j0NX1hvAZU
redrocker55
02-26-2010, 02:47 PM
I was interested so I looked it up on youtube and theres a little clip of it: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2j0NX1hvAZU
To me...this is about the best sounding exhaust I've ever heard. Can't wait to hear a 'in car' version while doing a similar acceleration...
drvolkl
02-26-2010, 03:21 PM
I think this is going to be my first mod. The sound and the adjustable tips have me sold.
Phantom S5
02-26-2010, 03:23 PM
I'm definitely getting it. I wish they would release it already.
AofC_RR
02-26-2010, 04:50 PM
I love some AWE. I REALLY wanted to put this system on a customer's car but their meticulous R&D process couldn't meet my (their) deadline. If the car gods will it though my next Audi will be the B8 S4 and I'll be enjoying that sound daily. If not I'll be making due with a B8 A4 with AWE. Still love my current A4 with AWE. Every blip of the throttle makes me smile.
JRMSLINEA4
02-26-2010, 06:34 PM
If you think AWE's sounds good listen to this. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fyct38cAr4M&feature=related
Most-Wanted
02-26-2010, 08:43 PM
If you think AWE's sounds good listen to this. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fyct38cAr4M&feature=related
Thats sounds horrible compared to the AWE:) But nice try on the thread hijack...
Thats sounds horrible compared to the AWE:) But nice try on the thread hijack...
+1!!
aaron1085
02-27-2010, 07:25 AM
as long as the AWE doesn't drone inside as it does on the 2.0, then that does sound QUITE nice
JRMSLINEA4
02-27-2010, 09:59 AM
Thats sounds horrible compared to the AWE:) But nice try on the thread hijack...
No hijack. Just think STaSIS sounds better. [;)]
drvolkl
02-27-2010, 10:56 AM
No hijack. Just think STaSIS sounds better. [;)]
You should get that one then.... imo it doesn't sound loud enough for me. AWE seems to have nailed it... and again, the adjustable tips. Sweet!
agkellyboy
02-27-2010, 09:40 PM
Alright, you'll have to wait another day for pictures and video, but hopefully this sound bite should keep you satisfied.
Spliced together gun&runs down Walnut St in Philadelphia. I heard at least 6 people say the words 'Audi' 'S4' and 'Wow'.
mp3 (http://clutchdecs.com/S4music.mp3)
SleeperA4
02-27-2010, 11:15 PM
Thanks for the post. I was especially happy to hear about there being no drone. I am waiting for the B8 A4 version for my DSG car and they were waiting to see how the system went on what I now believe is your car went before rolling the changes into the A4 version to eliminate the droning issue. For those that are not aware the drone problem is an even bigger issue on DSG cars.
as long as the AWE doesn't drone inside as it does on the 2.0, then that does sound QUITE nice
Phantom S5
02-28-2010, 04:53 AM
I want that exhaust now. It sound so beast. I'm definitely going to get the money together this week so I can get it the second they will sell one to me..
I want that exhaust now. It sound so beast. I'm definitely going to get the money together this week so I can get it the second they will sell one to me..
Agreed... Where do I sign up?!
agkellyboy
02-28-2010, 12:28 PM
Photos added at the top.
Phantom S5
02-28-2010, 12:58 PM
Pictures! Video exporting as I write this.
The car looks great. I'll probably see you around sometime.
Silververtu
02-28-2010, 01:25 PM
The car looks good, but the exhaust tips don't look that great.
agkellyboy
02-28-2010, 01:29 PM
The car looks good, but the exhaust tips doesn't look that great.
Neither does your grammar. Road conditions suck with perpetual snow and salt, but in the Spring they'll polish up nicely.
HyperM3
02-28-2010, 03:21 PM
Neither does your grammar. Road conditions suck with perpetual snow and salt, but in the Spring they'll polish up nicely.
He's from Ohio, leave him alone. However, I'll agree that they could have done a better job on the tips. Would have been nice if they beveled them on an angle to match the line of the bumper. Thats just my $.02 though.
agkellyboy
02-28-2010, 05:32 PM
Video Added at the top
Nvius
02-28-2010, 05:46 PM
He's from Ohio, leave him alone. However, I'll agree that they could have done a better job on the tips. Would have been nice if they beveled them on an angle to match the line of the bumper. Thats just my $.02 though.
+1, I wish the tips had a thicker bevel similar to that of my APR Exhaust for my B5.
P.S. Great video, absolutely love the sound!
Zed 2.0
02-28-2010, 05:55 PM
Great video. How would you compare the sound volume to stock? The video makes it seem like it is a fairly loud system.
that sound rivals the 4.2
Phantom S5
02-28-2010, 06:52 PM
Car sounds good. I like the roads you took.. I usually cruise around up there.
LOVE the deep growl.
Sounds like the UUC exhaust on an E46.
switchface
02-28-2010, 11:26 PM
Sounds excellent...I probably never would have started that "S4 feels unimpressive" thread if she sounded like this all along!
PragaS4
03-01-2010, 05:31 AM
Wow, this ranks no. 1 for me now in terms of sound.
guy013
03-01-2010, 05:39 AM
that sounds absolutely awesome and not unlike a certain V6 supercar.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dt01w68GevY&feature=related
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DDUZLOqitXo&feature=related
these videos are s3x for the ears.
nickcavalea
03-01-2010, 06:52 AM
really sounds amazing!! wish i had that right now
joung300
03-01-2010, 07:40 AM
need moar moneys
Silververtu
03-01-2010, 10:00 AM
Neither does your grammar. Road conditions suck with perpetual snow and salt, but in the Spring they'll polish up nicely.
Thx for the grammar check. It's fixed [wrench]
NWS4Guy
03-01-2010, 10:13 AM
That sounds great under some and hard throttle, I have a concern with considering this option and want your input about daily driving. I know there can be drone, and with the DSG (as I have also) it tends towards very short shifting for higher economy in Auto or Comfort. In the first bit of your "D" driving section, I can hear a VERY deep and constant drone when the DSG short shifts to a very low RPM. What is the range in RPM's that you notice this happening during? I woul dbe concerned if it fell in a certain range which I tend to drive in.
agkellyboy
03-01-2010, 12:04 PM
That sounds great under some and hard throttle, I have a concern with considering this option and want your input about daily driving. I know there can be drone, and with the DSG (as I have also) it tends towards very short shifting for higher economy in Auto or Comfort. In the first bit of your "D" driving section, I can hear a VERY deep and constant drone when the DSG short shifts to a very low RPM. What is the range in RPM's that you notice this happening during? I woul dbe concerned if it fell in a certain range which I tend to drive in.
You are right, the video does show a pretty drone when driving in D. Given the location of the camera and quality of the microphone, I think it is somewhat exaggerated. However, when driving in that mode there is some drone, but AWE worked very hard on reducing it to a comfortable level. I personally never drive in 'D', it makes the car feel sluggish and short shifts likes crazy. I'll keep you updated as my dad gets more daily driving impressions.
tadhgbrosnan
03-01-2010, 02:48 PM
Sounds excellent. AWE showing Milltek how to do it right.
tadhgbrosnan
03-01-2010, 02:49 PM
that sound rivals the 4.2
Wishful thinking. Not even close!
Machupo
03-01-2010, 02:53 PM
that sounds amazing!
can't wait to hear a highway WOT run through all the gears (the good ol' "Autobahn On-Ramp" [>_<])
tadhgbrosnan
03-01-2010, 04:20 PM
Neither does your grammar. Road conditions suck with perpetual snow and salt, but in the Spring they'll polish up nicely.
This from the kid who has a spelling error in the subject line.....
agkellyboy
03-01-2010, 04:33 PM
This from the kid who has a spelling error in the subject line.....
Touché
Zed 2.0
03-01-2010, 04:47 PM
Touché
The video is very helpful. If you feel like doing another recording, could you please do something like the following: Set nav instructions to medium volume in the "setup" menu, and have the nav speak some instructions on the video (so we have a frame of reference for volume), then record some stop and go traffic, as well as a run down an onramp or something similar where the car's going through multiple gears. I'd really appreciate a reference like that.
adbender
03-01-2010, 04:55 PM
superb video...great view when filming from the back seat.
sounds fantastic!
Twowheelsgood
03-01-2010, 05:31 PM
The video mostly reminds me how frustrating it is to try and drive a performance vehicle on the street.
s-4man
03-01-2010, 06:44 PM
2 loud!!
Dlepez20
03-01-2010, 11:19 PM
Wow that sounds amazing. I was trying to decide to between Stasis and AWE...guess who won? [:D] I can't wait till mid-April when my S4 comes in.
drvolkl
03-01-2010, 11:55 PM
So when can we buy this?
DeutscheAuto
03-02-2010, 07:09 PM
So when can we buy this?
+1
Ynnekdude
03-02-2010, 07:26 PM
My goodness that sounds good.
AWE please make an exhaust for the A6 3.0T! I will buy/test it! Pleaseeeeee!
Auditude2.0T
03-03-2010, 08:02 AM
that sound rivals the 4.2
uhmmm. no.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmjhwswMwwE&feature=PlayList&p=22DFCF295E79BAC3&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=4
NWS4Guy
03-03-2010, 08:56 AM
uhmmm. no.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmjhwswMwwE&feature=PlayList&p=22DFCF295E79BAC3&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=4
I'm pretty sure he means a STOCK 4.2, of course this will not come close to one with exhaust changes.
DetailersDomain
03-03-2010, 08:49 PM
very nice sounds great!
Rabbit222
03-03-2010, 10:33 PM
@ agkellyboy, dude totally off topic...I noticed that your entire rear light lights up when switching on your indicators? Is this a US spec or it some something that can be activated using VAG COM?
Mattgfx
03-04-2010, 12:01 AM
uhmmm. no.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmjhwswMwwE&feature=PlayList&p=22DFCF295E79BAC3&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=4
If your talking about sounds.. that sounds horrible.
and this exhaust sounds really good. i want to hear it on an b8 s4 6 speed
drvolkl
03-04-2010, 01:21 AM
Having owned multiple 4.2 S cars I can say that the new sound is music to my ears especially when it's coupled with the performance...
NWS4Guy
03-04-2010, 05:02 AM
@ agkellyboy, dude totally off topic...I noticed that your entire rear light lights up when switching on your indicators? Is this a US spec or it some something that can be activated using VAG COM?
US Spec, a few early US owners wanted it gone and to light up less like EU, but found that the actual tail lamp assembly is different and didn't think it was possible.
Rabbit222
03-04-2010, 05:37 AM
Thanks dude
1_clean_Audi
03-04-2010, 09:37 PM
uhmmm. no.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tmjhwswMwwE&feature=PlayList&p=22DFCF295E79BAC3&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=4
Turn the boost way up LOL ..
btw is that in NY? if so what part?
and to the op sounds awsome!
HyperM3
03-04-2010, 09:40 PM
Ok, I have a question about the exhaust itself. Is there a pic of the AWE before install, as in all the pieces? Also, is the stock exhaust one piece or multiple pieces? On my 04 A4 it was 11 feet of exhaust and was a PITA to remove and store. If the stock exhaust comes apart in pieces that makes things much easier.
notjoefromnh
03-05-2010, 06:44 AM
Sounds perfect...
Whats with your MMI showing the start splash screen during the drive?
agkellyboy
03-05-2010, 11:05 AM
Sounds perfect...
Whats with your MMI showing the start splash screen during the drive?
Just hold down the volume knob for a couple seconds, shuts down the MMI.
4ringsport
03-05-2010, 12:44 PM
I was kinda weary when i first heard how restricted the 3.0 is compared to the 4.2, it was so damn quiet. It seems though once you uncork it there is no chance that you will not be thoroughly ecstatic with everything about this 3.0. From the power, the sound coming out of that exhaust, to the sc wine from adding a simple intake, this car takes the cake. I will have to admit also i was kinda scared when i heard some of the competition. They sounded like they were developed to be the first on the market and had very poor quality, almost rice like, but AWE has hit it on the head as they always do. def need to know when the masses can pick this up.
dekra1111
03-09-2010, 07:03 PM
So guys anyone know if its out now... went to there website and nothing for the B8 S4 yet???
Todd/AWE
03-10-2010, 06:33 AM
We plan on making a formal release by the end of this week. Watch the forums and social sites!
DetailersDomain
03-10-2010, 06:39 AM
Todd thanks! Just ship one out to me asap. ; )
ChrisMT79
03-10-2010, 07:18 AM
Wow that does sound pretty good. It makes it just that much more difficult not to get on it all the time... Ugh the temptation
Phillyb7s4
03-10-2010, 07:28 AM
Nice work Andrew, when and where do you want to do some pulls?
agkellyboy
03-10-2010, 09:24 AM
Nice work Andrew, when and where do you want to do some pulls?
After the chip, bring it.
Todd/AWE
03-10-2010, 10:02 AM
Todd thanks! Just ship one out to me asap. ; )
Hah! Will do. You are on our backorder list. We haven't even made a formal announcement and we seem to have the first production almost sold out! More raw materials are being prepped.
agkellyboy
03-10-2010, 10:04 AM
Hah! Will do. You are on our backorder list. We haven't even made a formal announcement and we seem to have the first production almost sold out! More raw materials are being prepped.
Good marketing I guess? [:D]
DetailersDomain
03-10-2010, 10:11 AM
thanks i need a boost gauge too
NWS4Guy
03-10-2010, 10:28 AM
thanks i need a boost gauge too
I hijacked the thread about the A4 boost gauge, and they said they have one coming for the S4 "soon" :)
Todd/AWE
03-10-2010, 10:34 AM
Good marketing I guess?
Always nice to have user generated content out there. Thanks so much for the video, pics, and patience.
Todd/AWE
03-10-2010, 10:38 AM
thanks i need a boost gauge too
The hard work on that product is already completed. It uses our patent pending injection molded vent gauge pod that we also use on the B8 A4 and A5. Those are in stock.
We are waiting on our gauges to arrive. I specially designed a face graphic that uses the same font as the factory instruments, plus it will have matching back lighting and needle lighting.
We are machining up a boost tap adapter prototype this week and should have stock of those once the gauges arrive in ~3 weeks.
And then we release!
NWS4Guy
03-10-2010, 10:56 AM
The hard work on that product is already completed. It uses our patent pending injection molded vent gauge pod that we also use on the B8 A4 and A5. Those are in stock.
We are waiting on our gauges to arrive. I specially designed a face graphic that uses the same font as the factory instruments, plus it will have matching back lighting and needle lighting.
We are machining up a boost tap adapter prototype this week and should have stock of those once the gauges arrive in ~3 weeks.
And then we release!
Sweet! Thanks Todd, always nice to have ballpark numbers, and we won't hold you to them :)
Relentless
03-10-2010, 10:40 PM
Hah! Will do. You are on our backorder list. We haven't even made a formal announcement and we seem to have the first production almost sold out! More raw materials are being prepped.
add me to the list. I am SOLD on this exhaust. Can't wait!
Nvius
03-10-2010, 10:42 PM
Very interested as well! Pricing details?
Exhaust sounds good when you're accelerating aggresively, but there sure sounded like there was a lot of drone when driving leisurely in D mode.
PragaS4
03-12-2010, 10:41 PM
I'm eagerly awaiting this as well, do you deliver to South Africa? Will you also be offering the tail pieces in Diamond Black?
rktskicar
03-12-2010, 11:27 PM
you guys need to post up some dyno data. What does your exhaust do for me? (WHP wise). Until you post something that shows this, I will not consider your exhaust.
Bruce
Zed 2.0
03-13-2010, 07:39 AM
you guys need to post up some dyno data. What does your exhaust do for me? (WHP wise). Until you post something that shows this, I will not consider your exhaust.
Bruce
We haven't even made a formal announcement and we seem to have the first production almost sold out! More raw materials are being prepped.
Something tells me they're not too worried about that. Figure that all well designed 2.5" downpipe back systems will free up in the neighborhood of 5-10 whp. Aside from sound tuning, there isn't too much magic that goes into an exhaust.
the dyno of stock system with resonator delete and high flow cat, sounded harhs but made 12hp alone.
drvolkl
03-13-2010, 08:56 AM
I'm going to order this exhaust Bruce, you can check it out on my car if you'd like....
Anyone else notice their stock exhaust getting slightly louder as the miles roll on? I can actually hear mine now vs when I bought the car.... of course it may just be my super acute hearing has adjusted to the minimal sounds of the new B8!
rktskicar
03-13-2010, 09:23 AM
I'm going to order this exhaust Bruce, you can check it out on my car if you'd like....
Anyone else notice their stock exhaust getting slightly louder as the miles roll on? I can actually hear mine now vs when I bought the car.... of course it may just be my super acute hearing has adjusted to the minimal sounds of the new B8!
Excellent, DrV! I would like to check it out when you get one. Which one are you going to order?
My exhaust has gotten louder it seems to me from when it was new. I have about 3900 miles on my car now.
Bruce
drvolkl
03-13-2010, 10:24 AM
I'm going to get the resonated... (I'm assuming that's what you mean). The Milltek with the oval tips looks cool, but I don't want it that loud.
I also ordered the stratmosphere intake if you want to peak at that when it goes in. :)
Deep Sea S4
03-13-2010, 10:43 AM
I had a chance to look at and ride in a manual with the non res milltek. I wasn't nearly as loud as I thought it was going to be.
I was very surprised. I would suggest that you get to see both versions live (if you havent already) before you buy.
I would have to think that the res version would be pretty darn reserved
Autodynamica
03-13-2010, 02:56 PM
Sweat!!! like all the AWE exhaust systems
NWS4Guy
03-13-2010, 04:57 PM
I'd love to hear it Doc, sign me up too. Yes, I have definitely noticed that the exhaust has gotten louder with age, I have 3600 miles on mine now.
drvolkl
03-14-2010, 01:03 AM
I'd love to hear it Doc, sign me up too. Yes, I have definitely noticed that the exhaust has gotten louder with age, I have 3600 miles on mine now.
Only 1300 on mine but I swear it's louder now.... something is opening up... and my gas mileage has gotten a bit better, about 2mpg. Pretty cool stuff.
I'm really enjoying this car... and all I've done so far is tint, badges and fogs. Where the damn chips at?!!@!
GrnMtnS4
03-14-2010, 07:43 AM
Agree - those looking at exhaust may want to give the car some time to break in. Exhaust is by no means loud and could still use some hostility but it has gotten better. Also seeing about a 2mpg improvement on my commute and feels even more responsive when in dynamic mode - this car is going to get me in trouble....
Cheers
Brad
agkellyboy
03-16-2010, 10:44 AM
Exhaust is on sale now! Bringing this up to the top for anyone interested.
awhk82
07-10-2010, 08:42 PM
Hi agkellyboy, do you know whether the AWE exhaust in your video has the resonated downpipe or non-res?
edit: just noticed it's the resonated system. Thanks for posting the video! Am definitely getting one.
ken130
07-11-2010, 10:42 AM
I just installed my AWE exhaust (6spd MT)
At first I just ordered the exhaust system, then I thought that I better order the resonated down pipes in case it was to loud.... So, I put on the pipes plus the res down pipes....
Thank god I did, it takes a little getting used to. I drove my car on a long trip and could hear the drone.. but once I got home and things cooled down.... drove it again... no drone (I even called my friend and asked him to save my OEM exhaust because I might re-install it.. He just laughed at me).
Back on the subject, the pipes rock and if your like me... I was worried about sounding like a rice burner.. No worries. I'm extremely happy that I installed the res downpipes, or I would have probably re-installed my OEM if I did not go with the Res down pipes...
All in all, I can't wait to start it up... sounds nothing out there on the street. Hard to explain.....