Chapter 1
The physics of the roar
Chapter 2
Psychoacoustics and human emotion
Chapter 3
Regional styles of speed
Chapter 4
The silent revolution
Ch 1 · The physics of the roar
audi Engineers tune cylinder firing orders like drum beats to craft fast engine sounds into specific musical chords
Quiz
At 15,000 RPM, how many times does a single cylinder fire per second in a standard four-stroke engine?
Quiz
What physical property determines the fundamental pitch of an internal combustion engine's sound?
BETA
audi Tune engine and exhaust notes to discover how designers craft the sound of speed.
Quiz
What everyday object uses the same acoustic principle of resonance as a Helmholtz resonator when you blow across it?
Quiz
Which acoustic component is used in car exhausts to cancel out specific unwanted sound frequencies?
Quiz
Which manifold design is preferred for creating a smooth, high-pitched, Formula One-style exhaust note?
Quiz
What type of exhaust manifold design gives Subaru boxer engines their famous off-beat rumble?
Fun Fact
Engine music: The 2010 Lexus LFA's V10 engine acoustic channel was tuned by Yamaha's music division to sound like an opera singer.
audi Supersonic Turbocharger Blades
When you hit the gas and the engine starts to roar, Those spinning turbo blades break the sound barrier and more.
Quiz
What is the name of the valve that releases excess pressure in a turbo system, creating a famous 'whoosh' sound?
Quiz
Why do turbocharged engines naturally sound quieter than naturally aspirated engines of the same size?
Glossary
exhaust note (noun)
The distinctive sound produced by an internal combustion engine's exhaust system. In 2010, Lexus worked with Yamaha acoustic specialists to shape this sound for the LFA supercar.
The distinctive sound produced by an internal combustion engine's exhaust system. In 2010, Lexus worked with Yamaha acoustic specialists to shape this sound for the LFA supercar.