Kaged

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".

AORoads

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)!

Dyn

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.

Glenmcp

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.

spinkick

What does that have to do with wanting hearing protection or not?

Glenmcp

My point is why buy a performance car if you do not like the noise. However, if you do not like the noise and do not mind ear plugs, knock yourself out.

Dif

It's not so much the car itself.
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

Gearhead Jim

That's like saying "Why buy a performance car if you don't like a rough ride?"

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.

walleyejack

Buy a Prius

Dif

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

spinkick

My volt is amazingly quiet. If you could eliminate road noise and wind noise, it'd be even better!

Adam Cifonelli

Old men problems.

spinkick

Earplugs now or hearing aids later whipper snapper

walleyejack

my CCM is amazingly quiet.

Adam Cifonelli

4thC4at60

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....

fatsport

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.

Thatsok

you bought the wrong car.

Glenmcp

Or like buying an orange shirt when you do not like orange.

spinkick

Clearly you aren't man enough to handle a corvette if you feel the need to protect your hearing!