For many car owners, finding the perfect exhaust note can become an obsession. Luckily, there is a range of options to tweak your exhaust due to the range of aftermarket parts that are out there. When you’re searching for the perfect note, it’s important to know the difference between a muffler and a resonator.

What Does a Muffler Do?

The role of the muffler, which you may be able to determine based on its name, is to reduce (or muffle) the sound of the engine. Technically, it reduces the emission of sound pressure. OEM mufflers are of course restrictive because they take into account efficiency, cost of manufacturing, and laws concerning sound levels. But, you can replace your original muffler with a custom or aftermarket piece that will be music to your ears.

What Does a Resonator Do?

A resonator prevents a certain range of sound frequencies from escaping the exhaust system. The range that you hear from an OEM exhaust system is determined by an automotive sound engineer. Typically, the sound engineer will eliminate the frequencies that are unpleasing to the ear. A resonator increases performance by decreasing engine back pressure. Unlike a muffler, a resonator is not adjustable, so you’ll be stuck with the sound that you get.

If you’re not partial to the sound your resonator is helping to produce, you can always switch it out. A lot of people go with a wide-pipe instead of a resonator to get a “bigger” sound, but if you want to go this route, make sure your sound emissions are within the laws of your state.

If you’re looking to replace your exhaust system or tweak your current one, American Muffler is the premier muffler shop in Lauderdale Lakes. Give us a call to make an appointment or stop by our shop and we’ll be happy to take care of you.