View Full Version : RAI test pipe/down pipe + OEM exhaust = Rice
Toasted Coastie
06-03-2014, 06:43 PM
Seriously. The sound is horrible. Anyone have the same set up, then change up the exhaust to something that at least sounds better? This is just ridiculous.
Any suggestions? I'll probably go to Lou's Custom Exhaust to get the work done, but I have no idea about how the go from rich McRice to something more tolerable, lower (deeper) in note. Larger pipe, resonator and good baffling free flow mufflers?
Help. Please.
wootwoot
06-03-2014, 06:45 PM
Do you have any sound clips?
Guitarmageddon
06-03-2014, 06:49 PM
First mistake, going with RAI. Second mistake, didnt go with a milltek catback. Thats really all youre looking for I take it. Very refined and not rice. Its the test pipe thats killing you.
aluthman
06-03-2014, 06:52 PM
I've got the 3" downpipe with HFC mated to a B&B exhaust and I like the way it sounds. I just hate the way the downpipe fits.
geebus
06-03-2014, 06:54 PM
lol, I think that any hfc/dp with stock exhaust is going to sound a little ricey. My exhaust sounds ricey to me with just the 034 hfc and my stock catback setup.
vvenom800tt
06-03-2014, 06:59 PM
First mistake, going with RAI. Second mistake, didnt go with a milltek catback. Thats really all youre looking for I take it. Very refined and not rice. Its the test pipe thats killing you.
yeah because everyone and their mother want to spend that much on some steel [rolleyes]
wootwoot
06-03-2014, 07:00 PM
I have the RAI HFC without the downpipe and stock exhaust. It is loud when starting the car but the sound isn't bad and there isn't any drone or ricey sounds while driving.
Operator
06-03-2014, 07:06 PM
lol, I think that any hfc/dp with stock exhaust is going to sound a little ricey. My exhaust sounds ricey to me with just the 034 hfc and my stock catback setup.
I tend to agree. I see the issue more so being, keeping the stock exhaust. If you want to save some coin, grab a used B6/B7 S4 exhaust DP back of course.
I have the RAI HFC without the downpipe and stock exhaust. It is loud when starting the car but the sound isn't bad and there isn't any drone or ricey sounds while driving.
Yep, I had an RAI TP, but with an OBX DP plus OBX exhaust. Don't think it sounded bad at all!
So I disagree that the choice of the DP is the issue, but more so the OP's stock exhaust.
Guitarmageddon
06-03-2014, 07:07 PM
yeah because everyone and their mother want to spend that much on some steel [rolleyes]
Didnt say everyone and their mother....just those that arent content with cooking rice
vce1232000
06-03-2014, 07:12 PM
grab a used B6/B7 S4 exhaust DP back of course.
Agree [drool]
I have the RAI HFC without the downpipe and stock exhaust. It is loud when starting the car but the sound isn't bad and there isn't any drone or ricey sounds while driving.
Have someone else drive your car and listen to it from outside. It sounds like crap. Ask me how I know... If you like driving a fart can, well, good for you!
OP, any downpipe-back exhaust will sound better. Milltek is very quiet. As mine is. No drone, but it sounds just a tad louder than stock (with a nice deep tone mostly at low RPM). I like mine... No racekor sound at WOT though, if you want that (probably with a drone!) there are other options I'm sure. Nothing will sound as crappy as the stock exhaust with a HFC + DP, so you probably can't go wrong. [;)]
Levski
06-03-2014, 08:24 PM
lol, I think that any hfc/dp with stock exhaust is going to sound a little ricey. My exhaust sounds ricey to me with just the 034 hfc and my stock catback setup.
I have the 034hfc with tt DP and it doesn't sound ricey at all. Cruising sounds like stock, higher rpms sounds nice and deep even from the inside. I am not even sure if I want to add a cat back because of possible drone, maybe a MagnaFlow
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wootwoot
06-03-2014, 08:27 PM
Have someone else drive your car and listen to it from outside. It sounds like crap. Ask me how I know... If you like driving a fart can, well, good for you!
I'm sorry if your car sounded like a sloppy turd but that has not been my experience.
I have the 034hfc with tt DP and it doesn't sound ricey at all. Cruising sounds like stock, higher rpms sounds nice and deep even from the inside. I am not even sure if I want to add a cat back because of possible drone, maybe a MagnaFlow
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Yeah, from inside the car the sound isn't bad. It's even pretty good. I had the same feeling. It is when you step out and objectively listen to the fart can you now own that you realize it sounds bad. Sorry, just saying, you can choose not to listen. [;)]
I'm sorry if your car sounded like a sloppy turd but that has not been my experience.
This:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9NI9x8YiApg
(Not mine, found that BEFORE I got the HFC and DP installed, I was afraid it would sound like this, and it did.)
Every A4 will sound about the same with a HFC and DP. You car isn't different than mine or any other member here. Your experience isn't different. The simple fact is: you like it.
At WOT it isn't that bad. But the sound is awful and ricey when driving around "normally", and especially on a cold startup. I had to start my car while some work friends were around, they asked me what was wrong with my car. And they were right, it sounds so bad you think it's broken.
Toasted Coastie
06-04-2014, 01:24 AM
The HFC and test pipe are different. I have the test pipe. I've had it on there for over a year. When I brought it to DTM to have the timing belt done and left it there with them, first thing out of Chris's mouth was "yeah, we need to do something about your exhaust.
It's loud. It's horrible. I think the biggest reason is the size difference in pipe going from the RAI down pipe to the stock exhaust. Could definitely sound so much better.
geebus
06-04-2014, 03:22 AM
Lol, look guys. There's no objective way to judge the sound. Either you like it or you don't. But like Acme said, all of our cars sound pretty much the same with this setup. The only exception would be if you have a leak somewhere. My car sounds ridiculous at startup and thankfully quiets down a fair bit after about a minute. I don't have a leak btw. We are just going to have to agree to disagree because how we judge sound is based on preference. Let it go
aluthman
06-04-2014, 04:06 AM
Let it go
http://inthecac.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/frozen_let_it_go.jpg
geebus
06-04-2014, 04:39 AM
http://inthecac.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/frozen_let_it_go.jpg
Exactly lol
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FraggyA4
06-04-2014, 05:10 AM
I run RAI HFC with the 3" inch dp, I like the sound at normal driving its just a little deeper then stock on WOT it give you a nice groan.
We are just going to have to agree to disagree because how we judge sound is based on preference. Let it go
I'm ok with that. But the OP finds it horrible, as I did (or do when I hear a sound like that coming out of luxury car).
It doesn't help much when a member come in here and just say "hey, mine sounds so good!". No it doesn't. It's just that you don't care, or you like it that way.
OP, here's mine with the Mototec Touring (with resonators). Some compare it to a Milltek. I can't say for sure... A Magnaflow will sound about the same I think, maybe a tad louder (I tried one on an Avant without HFC nor DP so I can't compare apple to apple but it sounded about the same as mine right now). Inside the car it's very quiet, almost stock. I get some bass at low RPM while accelerating, but it's a nice deep sound and not too loud. The only downside is you don't get that nice sound while at WOT over 3000 RPM. It's a bit too quiet for my taste. It sounds good though, just not loud. If you want louder I think it comes with its drone as a "bonus" (and it's something I didn't want). That's what I understand, I could be wrong...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0mDZaGhjlz0
geebus
06-04-2014, 05:24 AM
I'm ok with that. But the OP finds it horrible, as I did (or do when I hear a sound like that coming out of luxury car).
It doesn't help much when a member come in here and just say "hey, mine sounds so good!". No it doesn't. It's just that you don't care, or you like it that way.
OP, here's mine with the Mototec Touring (with resonators). Some compare it to a Milltek. I can't say for sure... A Magnaflow will sound about the same I think, maybe a tad louder (I tried one on an Avant without HFC nor DP so I can't compare apple to apple but it sounded about the same as mine right now). Inside the car it's very quiet, almost stock. I get some bass at low RPM while accelerating, but it's a nice deep sound and not too loud. The only downside is you don't get that nice sound while at WOT over 3000 RPM. It's a bit too quiet for my taste. It sounds good though, just not loud. If you want louder I think it comes with its drone as a bonus (and it's something I didn't want). That's what I understand, I could be wrong...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0mDZaGhjlz0
Oh I agree with you on the sound 100%! I don't like it and can't wait to finish the exhaust.
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p0isin
06-04-2014, 05:39 AM
Cold starts with my 034 HFC are embarrassing. It sounds like a huge fartcannon. Been like that with both stock and OBX full cat back exhaust and from apr stage 2, 2+, and through my frankenturbo build. It does offer noticeable improvement in spool time but if I could get rid of it for a different brand I would.
Once the car is warmed up it sounds fine but the first minute or so sounds like crap.
Cold starts with my 034 HFC are embarrassing. It sounds like a huge fartcannon. Been like that with both stock and OBX full cat back exhaust and from apr stage 2, 2+, and through my frankenturbo build. It does offer noticeable improvement in spool time but if I could get rid of it for a different brand I would.
Once the car is warned up it sounds fine but the first minute or so sounds like crap.
It has nothing to do specifically with the brand of the HFC. They all do the same crappy sound with a HFC/TP. It changes the flow in the exhaust line, and the stock exhaust isn't "tuned" for that... The HFC doesn't create sound!
test pipe/hfc only with stock exhaust is turrble. period.
you need to finish off the exhaust--- it is the only way to get the sound you desire. whether it is custom made for you at your local shop with magnaflows, or a bolt on kit like APR/BB/AWE.
^^or a B6/B7 S4 downpipe back.
RAudiB7A4
06-04-2014, 08:39 AM
I've got the Magnaflow 16601 downpipe back exhaust mated up to APR 2.5" TP/DP combo and it sounds much better than I even expected. Nice and deep and mellow. Not ricey at all. Not obnoxiously loud either. Since you've already got the DP it makes he most financial sense as well being it's only $664 (or it was when I bought it last September) from performancepeddler.com.
http://youtu.be/7PATcOTCiDk
Toasted Coastie
06-04-2014, 08:43 AM
I'm ok with that. But the OP finds it horrible, as I did (or do when I hear a sound like that coming out of luxury car).
It doesn't help much when a member come in here and just say "hey, mine sounds so good!". No it doesn't. It's just that you don't care, or you like it that way.
OP, here's mine with the Mototec Touring (with resonators). Some compare it to a Milltek. I can't say for sure... A Magnaflow will sound about the same I think, maybe a tad louder (I tried one on an Avant without HFC nor DP so I can't compare apple to apple but it sounded about the same as mine right now). Inside the car it's very quiet, almost stock. I get some bass at low RPM while accelerating, but it's a nice deep sound and not too loud. The only downside is you don't get that nice sound while at WOT over 3000 RPM. It's a bit too quiet for my taste. It sounds good though, just not loud. If you want louder I think it comes with its drone as a "bonus" (and it's something I didn't want). That's what I understand, I could be wrong...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0mDZaGhjlz0
This is the sound I'm looking for.
What size is the pipe?
jaycurn
06-04-2014, 09:51 AM
I've got the Magnaflow 16601 downpipe back exhaust mated up to APR 2.5" TP/DP combo and it sounds much better than I even expected. Nice and deep and mellow. Not ricey at all. Not obnoxiously loud either. Since you've already got the DP it makes he most financial sense as well being it's only $664 (or it was when I bought it last September) from performancepeddler.com.
http://youtu.be/7PATcOTCiDk
In my opinion, the Magnaflow is one of the most underrated, best sounding and inexpensive options out there!! Had the same CB system on my B6 but sounds WAY better with the TP/DP! Absolutely LOVE this exhaust note!! Nicely done!
This is the sound I'm looking for.
What size is the pipe?
2.5" to 2" after the Y. Tips are 4" rolled like the Magnaflow.
I was looking for a Magnaflow 16601 at first, but the Mototec was a little less expensive (there was a sale @ Eurosport Tuning). I still think the Magnaflow is the best option though. I'm not regretting my choice because it sounds ok, but I went for the price. I think the Magnaflow is a bit louder and noticeable (without being obnoxious). It all depends on what you are looking for. People compliment my car and the sound it makes since I did the install, I believe it fits the car well, and fits the "OEM+" look I'm looking for. As I said the only downside is the lack of sound inside the car at full throttle. Roll down the windows though, and then you can hear the exhaust note and it sounds pretty good. [cool]
Levski
06-04-2014, 09:43 PM
I've got the Magnaflow 16601 downpipe back exhaust mated up to APR 2.5" TP/DP combo and it sounds much better than I even expected. Nice and deep and mellow. Not ricey at all. Not obnoxiously loud either. Since you've already got the DP it makes he most financial sense as well being it's only $664 (or it was when I bought it last September) from performancepeddler.com.
http://youtu.be/7PATcOTCiDk
I was on the fence about the 16601, just ordered it, sounds good and not to loud
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Jake@JHM
06-05-2014, 09:43 AM
http://youtu.be/VAf5ycU6Kto
Back when I had resonators. Sounded pretty good though!
^^ Yup... That sounded pretty good indeed... [up]
aluthman
06-05-2014, 04:19 PM
Dammit Jake, now I want to replace my entire exhaust...
Jake@JHM
06-05-2014, 04:41 PM
^^ Yup... That sounded pretty good indeed... [up]
Thanks!
Dammit Jake, now I want to replace my entire exhaust...
Haha I highly recommend the non-res setup with the DP-Y. Absolutely zero drone when cruising and it still has that aggressive note that the resonators mask.
Haha I highly recommend the non-res setup with the DP-Y. Absolutely zero drone when cruising and it still has that aggressive note that the resonators mask.
I wonder if that would be the case with my setup... They (Eurosport Tuning) told me I would get a drone if I remove the resonators. Yet, I'm curious. It's sad that it's not something I can try easily, like swap them in and out on my own. [:/]
Jake@JHM
06-05-2014, 04:57 PM
I wonder if that would be the case with my setup... They (Eurosport Tuning) told me I would get a drone if I remove the resonators. Yet, I'm curious. It's sad that it's not something I can try easily, like swap them in and out on my own. [:/]
Removing resonators on a regular a4 setup will definitely get you drone. The reason why our setup is able to get around that is we have a Y-Pipe that goes to an X-Pipe which creates a nice scavenging affect. No drone is just a pleasant side affect [up].
aluthman
06-05-2014, 04:57 PM
I can't justify $1600 for another exhaust right now. That's almost my EFR right there.
Jake@JHM
06-05-2014, 04:59 PM
I can't justify $1600 for another exhaust right now. That's almost my EFR right there.
Understandable. But for people who are in a position to get an exhaust system they now have a very high flowing system that doesn't only sound good, but doesn't have drone.
Removing resonators on a regular a4 setup will definitely get you drone. The reason why our setup is able to get around that is we have a Y-Pipe that goes to an X-Pipe which creates a nice scavenging affect. No drone is just a pleasant side affect [up].
Good to know, thanks... I won't try it then. I wanna stay drone freeeeeee!!! [:D]
Understandable. But for people who are in a position to get an exhaust system they now have a very high flowing system that doesn't only sound good, but doesn't have drone.
Fixed
aluthman
06-05-2014, 05:08 PM
If I still had the stock exhaust, I'd be all over a DP-Y and an FI catback. But there is nothing technically wrong with what I have.
Jake@JHM
06-05-2014, 05:09 PM
Good to know, thanks... I won't try it then. I wanna stay drone freeeeeee!!! [:D]
Wise choice!
Fixed
Damn, thanks! My fingers can't keep up with my brain [headbang]
Jake@JHM
06-05-2014, 05:10 PM
If I still had the stock exhaust, I'd be all over a DP-Y and an FI catback. But there is nothing technically wrong with what I have.
What size is you BB exhaust?
aluthman
06-05-2014, 05:48 PM
What size is you BB exhaust?
3" RAI DP into 2.5" to center resonator then split into two 2.25"
eroca
06-05-2014, 06:25 PM
I'm ok with that. But the OP finds it horrible, as I did (or do when I hear a sound like that coming out of luxury car).
It doesn't help much when a member come in here and just say "hey, mine sounds so good!". No it doesn't. It's just that you don't care, or you like it that way.
OP, here's mine with the Mototec Touring (with resonators). Some compare it to a Milltek. I can't say for sure... A Magnaflow will sound about the same I think, maybe a tad louder (I tried one on an Avant without HFC nor DP so I can't compare apple to apple but it sounded about the same as mine right now). Inside the car it's very quiet, almost stock. I get some bass at low RPM while accelerating, but it's a nice deep sound and not too loud. The only downside is you don't get that nice sound while at WOT over 3000 RPM. It's a bit too quiet for my taste. It sounds good though, just not loud. If you want louder I think it comes with its drone as a "bonus" (and it's something I didn't want). That's what I understand, I could be wrong...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0mDZaGhjlz0
How is the sound on cold start? i own a JHM test pipe with stock exhaust but the sound in the morning is bad for like a minute
How is the sound on cold start? i own a JHM test pipe with stock exhaust but the sound in the morning is bad for like a minute
Nothing to compare with the ridiculous "fart orchestra" I was forced to listen to every morning for a few weeks (when I only had the HFC + DP installed). It was painful. With any aftermarket exhaust you will get a "normal" sound, although a bit louder because the pressure in the line is higher than usual at idle. Only downside of all this: it's deep and a bit loud. If like me you live in a condo, you'll probably get noticed in the morning... At least, it sounds great, so they won't laugh at you or ask you "what's wrong with your car?"! [;)]
Mind you, what you hear on a cold start is actually what your car sounds like under mild acceleration...... [rolleyes]
Damn..... i was about to pickup a milltek HFC to compliment the milltek cat back. i guess I just have to wait until i can hear this setup in person. I didn't think a catalytic converter could dampen so much noise.
Toasted Coastie
06-17-2014, 06:21 PM
Lots of great input, thank you!
ignus99
06-17-2014, 07:25 PM
Dammit! I knew it was a bad idea to go back into this thread, now I have that stupid frozen song stuck in my head again. Shit.
Toasted Coastie
07-08-2014, 06:23 AM
Anyone use Lou's Custom Exhaust in the NH area?
Der Konig
07-08-2014, 06:50 AM
Damn, I only have a 034 hfc and I get compliments on it and when rolling against my friend he said it sounded surprisingly good and low for a 4 cylinder. Must be the downpipe making the big difference I guess?
Liking the sound+this thread=
http://i.imgur.com/J3bKOfv.gif
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konarider94
07-08-2014, 07:22 AM
I have the RAI HFC without the downpipe and stock exhaust. It is loud when starting the car but the sound isn't bad and there isn't any drone or ricey sounds while driving.
I have the pipe with no cat and I agree it sounds fine. Nice and quiet on the highway. Kind of loud when I rev it out but when you are driving like that it doesnt really matter.
p0isin
07-08-2014, 07:48 AM
I finally resolved my issue through Masteo and my cold starts sound just fine now (034 HFC + obx catback exhaust). I altered the cold start parameters for fuel injection start angle so that fuel wasn't being injected as late as before. Earlier injection time resulted in a much better sound. The HFC might take a bit longer to warm up but it was totally worth it and I've noticed no issues over the past month.