Ear plugs
Instructor
Joined: Oct 2016
Posts: 107
Likes: 15
I realize this subject is akin to helmets for motorcycle riders, but would offer some experience for you to consider.
First, there is a major difference in the ambient noise level with windows down vs being up in the C7, not to mention that buffeting with windows down that occurs at high speed. I typically drive the car with the windows up and use hearing protection at the track and autocross. Same with my bikes.
As a member of the generation that looked down on hearing protection in loud cars, guns and motorcycles,I am paying the price. After nearly 40 years of that behaviour, I now have "severe" hearing loss (over 90 db). I need my hearing aids if I want to have a conversation with anyone, especially in a group setting. And hearing aids are not cheap either!
Strongly advise hearing protection whenever the noise level is "loud".
First, there is a major difference in the ambient noise level with windows down vs being up in the C7, not to mention that buffeting with windows down that occurs at high speed. I typically drive the car with the windows up and use hearing protection at the track and autocross. Same with my bikes.
As a member of the generation that looked down on hearing protection in loud cars, guns and motorcycles,I am paying the price. After nearly 40 years of that behaviour, I now have "severe" hearing loss (over 90 db). I need my hearing aids if I want to have a conversation with anyone, especially in a group setting. And hearing aids are not cheap either!
Strongly advise hearing protection whenever the noise level is "loud".
Team Owner
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 46,295
Likes: 2,596
From: Northern, VA
St. Jude Donor '15
"In honor of jpee"
Very illuminating thread. I actually thought about but didn't use ear plugs w. the convertible top down. I guess I should have. Wind noise, buffeting, etc. do get tiring, more than just riding the same length of time. Loud concerts are a completely different bag, as are auto races where the engines are very loud. Thanks for all the good thoughts and contrary opinions on the matter (as well as the recommended places to get good ear plugs)! 
Instructor
Joined: Aug 2017
Posts: 193
Likes: 43
From: Roanoke (near Dallas) Texas
I don't think the car is too loud, but the passing semi trucks are hellish to me serenity. With the top down, I play the windows up-down game trying to mitigate the noise as the truck pass or are passed.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2013
Posts: 2,489
Likes: 579
From: Central Gulf Coast Florida
A Vette is not a high end luxury car. If you want no noise and a ride like you are driving your couch, buy a high end Mercedes.
Safety Car
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 3,535
Likes: 830
From: Brighton Mi
Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2013
Posts: 2,489
Likes: 579
From: Central Gulf Coast Florida
Safety Car
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 4,101
Likes: 719
From: Northeast MA & Mad Beach FL
I don't mind driving around for the day listening to the engine whine or enjoying the exhaust, and can put up with road noise.
I don't use earplugs every time I get in the car
But for a long road trip driving multiple 6-8 hours a day, that noise is fatiguing.
And, we're not using normal ear plugs that completely block all sound.
These are specific made earplugs that Subdue only the majority of Constant noise like wind, tire, road, and Traffic noise while still being able to carry on a conversation with someone, or listen to music.
YMMV but it's not all or nothing
Team Owner
Joined: Sep 2000
Posts: 25,019
Likes: 2,712
From: Far NW 'burbs of Chicago
St. Jude Donor '13
Some people consider noise or a rough ride as a price they must reluctantly pay to get the performance. Others enjoy them.
Your choice may not be the same as someone else's.
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Safety Car
Joined: Mar 2009
Posts: 4,101
Likes: 719
From: Northeast MA & Mad Beach FL
that's a good one.They're actually having the same discussion on the Prius forum..
They're asking what kind of insulation to install, and what tires would be Quieter.
And apparently the engines are too noisy.
PS: One Guy said he should have bought a Corvette .. j/k
But the rest is true
Le Mans Master
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 6,433
Likes: 3,622
From: Commerce Texas
Were we closer I'd love to give you that ride.
The child still lurks inside of me at 76. I love going through tunnels, under bridges, overpasses, between buildings on old streets..... between 4,000 and 7,200 the sounds coming out of those 32 valves, belts, other mechanical items and the Tubi are absolutely luscious....
The child still lurks inside of me at 76. I love going through tunnels, under bridges, overpasses, between buildings on old streets..... between 4,000 and 7,200 the sounds coming out of those 32 valves, belts, other mechanical items and the Tubi are absolutely luscious....
Melting Slicks
Joined: Aug 2017
Posts: 2,518
Likes: 942
From: Fl
I just did 1800 miles in my GS, bugging out from Hurricane Irma. Drove up to Asheville, worked remotely. Loved every minute of it.
Do you have a trunk/hatch mat? I have one and I think that keeps the tire noise down.
Do you have a trunk/hatch mat? I have one and I think that keeps the tire noise down.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Feb 2013
Posts: 2,489
Likes: 579
From: Central Gulf Coast Florida
Or like buying an orange shirt when you do not like orange.