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Model specific boards => Golf mk7 => Golf mk7 GTD/TDI => Topic started by: westwoap on 19 September 2013, 13:42

Title: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: westwoap on 19 September 2013, 13:42

Hi folks

Just joined the VW crew and ordered (21/08/2013) a Tornado Red GTD which is due for delivery 29/01/2013.

Ive been looking at this forum and must say its superb.

I do have a question and thats about the sound actuator. Ive been hearing different things about it and was wondering if you could clear up a couple of questions

1) Does it make any difference to the exhaust notes when in Sport mode or any mode in that matter
2) Is it just a sound that comes through the speakers?
3) Does it just create a vibration through the windscreen to give the rumbling sound of a petrol engine?

Any help would be appreciated
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: monkeyhanger on 19 September 2013, 13:55
It makes quite a difference to the sound of the car (internally). There seems to be a little sound actuator action in “normal” (engine seems louder than when in “eco” and a lot in “sport”.

I wasn’t a fan of the sound actuator when I got my car a week ago, it sounded rattly/rumbly rather than hummy/rumbly (like my Scirocco was). The engine note somehow seems different now, more raspy (probably just in my mind) and I now prefer it. I would guess at a device behind the windscreen causing the noise – this is how it worked on the Scirocco 170TDI and MK6 GTD.

If you don’t like it, you can set the engine to “normal” within “individual” driving mode and have everything else set to “sport” (like steering etc) – although it will dull the throttle response to do this (seems no way of separating sound actuator from pedal response within “engine” setting). You could unplug it if you never want to hear it again but want the “sport” throttle response.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: me109 on 20 October 2013, 15:20
Between 1-2 k rpm in sport mode a get a very nasty buzzing noise I hate it, sounds cheap.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: monkeyhanger on 20 October 2013, 16:08
Between 1-2 k rpm in sport mode a get a very nasty buzzing noise I hate it, sounds cheap.

Sure it's the actuator correctly doing it's stuff? Mine has a buzzy rattle at around 1500rpm, behind the radio. I'm convinced it's a fault (like the heater matrix pipes vibrating) rather than the actuator. I will be paying a visit to the dealer for warranty work on it and the squeaky/creaky front drivers side shock mounting/bearing.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: me109 on 20 October 2013, 17:31
Monkeyhanger sounds like you have the same faults as me. The front suspension has just started rattling too. Calling the dealer in the morning.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: andyk11 on 20 October 2013, 19:17
I've got the buzzing noise as well... in sport mode from low revs it's behind / to the left of the radio.

I've also got very squeaky suspension at < 25mph on uneven roads... mostly when the car is being jostled from side to side.  A trip to the dealer is in order methinks.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: monkeyhanger on 20 October 2013, 21:08
I'm going to finish appraising the TDI-tuning.co.uk box before I put mine in for remedial work and maybe get my parking brake sensors done (I had a single handbrake failure about a week into ownership).
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Skinnee D on 04 November 2013, 17:59
Just noticed that the latest price list offers a GTD "exhaust sound actuator" for about £250 but it doesn't make clear if this is the speaker in the exhaust system, or just the internal sound that was previously included as standard.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: neilgcal on 04 November 2013, 20:29
Yeah this is what I would really like to know. I'm BW 44 so should be built but I'm not and now in BW 45 where it costs extra. From the test drive the GTD defo has it when you drive in sport profile inside but not out. Would like some sound in it!! Can cope with none outside.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: corgi on 05 November 2013, 09:30
Yeah this is what I would really like to know. I'm BW 44 so should be built but I'm not and now in BW 45 where it costs extra. From the test drive the GTD defo has it when you drive in sport profile inside but not out. Would like some sound in it!! Can cope with none outside.

Its odd... car manufacturers have worked hard for years to significantly reduce nvh to the point where they are now having to artificially add it...  :laugh:
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Skinnee D on 05 November 2013, 20:13
"Sport and sound" is now on the VW configurator.  It's described as exactly what was standard on the GTD originally - i.e. internal resonator with no outside sound.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Rich_G on 07 November 2013, 10:30
I'm trying to get an answer out of VW about the Sport & Sound option.
As I've pointed out to them, when I ordered my GTD four weeks ago I was lead to believe that it was a standard feature.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: neilgcal on 07 November 2013, 12:16
Yeah I called my dealer about this last night. Still waiting to hear back too! Mine should have been built last week but still not built.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Rich_G on 07 November 2013, 13:01
So here's the reply I've had from VW via their facebook page.

Volkswagen UK
Hi Richard, Thanks for your patience, we've now received further info. The sound generator enhances the aural sensation for the driver (and passengers). In ‘Sport’ mode (using the Driver Profile Selector) there is an additional acoustic emphasis to the sound of the engine inside the car, with no additional noise externally. This isn't a standard feature and has only just been released by our factory.


Now I'm confused; they're saying that up until now there has been no sound actuator on the car.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: monkeyhanger on 07 November 2013, 13:46
Bullsh!t. If he’s talking about an internal resonance based sound actuator then pre BW45 cars have had them as standard. I’m sure(ish) on mine that there’s a bit of sound actuator in Normal, compared to Eco, but it’s definitely there in Sport mode. Where do VW UK go to get their info?
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Mark V GTD on 07 November 2013, 17:37
From the parent company - VW in Germany.... which is why things are often 'lost in translation' or 'adjusted', the classic example being cam belt change periods...
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Robbo on 07 November 2013, 18:32
I'm sure I read or watched a review (can't remember which or where) where it mentioned something about a sound package, which would become available. From what I remember, they said it will subtly pipe engine noises through the internal speakers in the car matching the engine and you can choose from different sounds (V8 for example). Anyone heard of this? Or am I talking complete sh!te?  :evil: :evil:

I'll try and find the review, so I know I'm not going mad :grin:
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: noobmonkey on 07 November 2013, 19:04
Nope, you are not going mad... why am i thinking a topgear episode or something? certainly rings a bell with me too :)
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Robbo on 07 November 2013, 19:24
Found this on YouTube - certainly sounds enhanced.  Sounds normal on start up, but certainly sounds different to what I'd expect when accelerating. For those that have their GTD's, is this the actuator sound?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ciI4H6Lq8xk&feature=youtube_gdata_player (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ciI4H6Lq8xk&feature=youtube_gdata_player)

What do you think?
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Sootchucker on 07 November 2013, 22:03
Well proof of the pudding is that my August built car when I scanned it using VCDS list the structure borne sound actuator (SBSA) in the CAN gateway, can be reached and can also be put into diagnostic mode so it's certainly there.

Can't imagine any GTD's didn't come with it (which means VW are either lying, or more probably as usual, know feck all about the cars they sell). This then poses a question, if the external special exhaust system with the built in sound actuator isn't part of the package, and the SBSA is already fitted, then what exactly does that £250 buy you ? painted red calipers ? (I did mine myself for £10) !
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: MajorKhan on 08 November 2013, 13:01
Hi,
 mine is build 17/11 so im thinking sound act , is there anythingh that can be done???
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Mark V GTD on 08 November 2013, 13:13
At this stage you will get what you are given!  No offence intended there....

The reason is that VW cars are built to the standard country dependent specification (plus specific optional extras as originally ordered) once build is instigated.

If one of your options becomes standard (such as when Sciroccos got free leather interiors 18 months ago) you still get it. If one of the standard features becomes optional you don't get it.  If new standard features are added since order you get them (such as the ability to have folding mirrors open on remote control press for BW45 onwards cars).

In other words they dont retro spec cars to suit what you thought you were going to get...
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Rich_G on 13 November 2013, 10:34
So VW Customer Services contacted me the other day with regards my query about the sound actuator and told me they would look into it further.
Here is their reply.


Subject:
 Golf GTD sound actuator

 
 
Further to our recent telephone conversation. I have spoken with our Technical Support Team as well as our Product Marketing
 Team.
 
I am able to confirm that the New Golf GTD does not have a sound actuator as a standard item of specification. The only way in
 which a sound actuator would be fitted in the exhaust system, is if the new Sight and Sound pack was fitted. I am told that the
 Mk6 Golf GTD did have a sound actuator fitted and this may be the source of some of the confusion on this matter.
 
I hope this information proves useful. If we can be of any further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us on the
 number below.
 
Thank you for contacting Volkswagen UK.
 
Yours sincerely
 

Damien Quirk
 Customer Relations Manager
 Volkswagen Customer Services Centre
 
Tel: 0800 083 3914
 E-mail: customerservices@volkswagen.co.uk
 Internet: www.volkswagen.co.uk
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Mark V GTD on 13 November 2013, 12:05
Unbelievable!  The only confusion is on the part of VW UK, its clear from previous paosts referring to VCDS scans that the Sound Aktor was present on cars up to BW45  :rolleyes:
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Skinnee D on 14 November 2013, 05:38
If you look on the VW new car configurator the option is now described. The description aligns with what was fitted on early cars as standard. Hope this helps.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: monkeyhanger on 14 November 2013, 07:36
Seems sh!te of VW to remove standard equipment and then hoy in a price rise on the car, despite the pound being considered pretty strong against the Euro right now.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Sootchucker on 14 November 2013, 07:59
Is that actually what they have now done ? Removed the Structure born sound actuator (SBSA), pretended it was never fitted as standard, then charge £255 for the privilege of fitting it back on ?

Even with VW's ineptitude, I can't really see them being this stupid. Also, if you look on the configurator it says:

"This sound generator enhances the aural sensation for the driver and other passengers. In 'Sport' mode (using the Driver Profile Selector) there is an additional acoustic emphasis to the sound of the engine inside the car, with no additional noise externally."


Which to me reads like its the SBSA only, and yet when you look at the price list it says:

"Exhaust sound actuator for selected driver profile. Comfort sound – Normal and Eco mode, ‘Deep Sporty sound’ – Sport mode."

Using the word "Exhaust" at the beginning leads you to believe that it is in fact the external sound actuator not the internal one, which would make more sense and is in line with what you get with the package on the continent.

Seems to be a classic case (again), that VW just don't know exactly what they are selling !
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Mark V GTD on 14 November 2013, 13:29
The word 'exhaust' is a cunning ploy to make you think its external - I don't think it does anything other than generate sound inside the car as it always has (the sound you hear inside appears to come from the exhaust of course!)- the only difference is that now you pay £250 for it!

In this case its rather clever as they are now selling something that previously they gave away! They do have previous form on this sort of malarky - if anyone remembers when they announced price cuts in the Mk.5 but what they actually did was de-specify the SE model and removed standard items such as auto headlights and rain-sensor and made them cost options - all in days work for VW UK!
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: corgi on 14 November 2013, 15:22
I'll be quite happy if it doesn't have it...

I find it quite odd that VW will spend millions on reducing the nvh in the Golf and then feel the need to artificially add some back in...  :laugh:
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Skinnee D on 16 November 2013, 09:05
I'll be quite happy if it doesn't have it...

I find it quite odd that VW will spend millions on reducing the nvh in the Golf and then feel the need to artificially add some back in...  :laugh:
I like it but doubt I'd recommend spending £250 odd on it.  It would be more interesting as a cost option if you could control it independently from the engine setting, but the description suggests no change from the original.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Mark V GTD on 16 November 2013, 09:10
Skinee - your car is a three door in silver isnt it? Have you posted any pics - would love to see it?
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Skinnee D on 16 November 2013, 12:10
Skinee - your car is a three door in silver isnt it? Have you posted any pics - would love to see it?
It is - haven't posted any but happy to try putting something on photobucket.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Skinnee D on 16 November 2013, 12:49
Skinee - your car is a three door in silver isnt it? Have you posted any pics - would love to see it?
It is - haven't posted any but happy to try putting something on photobucket.
Had a couple on my phone that I've added to the "new arrivals" thread.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: neilgcal on 16 November 2013, 13:49
My BW 44 car that was built a week late in BW 45 has the sound actuator as standard. Must have been lucky with the cross over! Mind you I have the advance telephone prep so lose out on the MDI! Can't win them all!!
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Robbo on 06 December 2013, 19:54
Well now that my BW 45 has arrived (mirrors now fold/unfold on locking/unlocking), it appears that I have the Sound Actuator fitted.

With the mode in 'Normal', engine just sounds like you'd expect, but in 'Sport' the engine noise is much deeper, louder witha bit more of a growl.  Definitely a different sound between the 2 modes, managed to find a back road where I was able to try the modes back to back and accelerate (mainly in 2nd).  Tried it lots just to make sure of the difference too :wink:
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Skinnee D on 06 December 2013, 21:17
Well now that my BW 45 has arrived (mirrors now fold/unfold on locking/unlocking), I do believe that the Sound Actuator is still fitted.

With the mode in 'Normal', engine just sounds like you'd expect, but in 'Sport' the engine noise is much deeper, louder witha bit more of a growl.  Definitely a different sound between the 2 modes, managed to find a back road where I was able to try the modes back to back and accelerate (mainly in 2nd).  Tried it lots just to make sure of the difference too :wink:
Sounds like Father Wolfsburg Christmas visited you early or VW have got their specs round their necks again... don't tell the salesman or he might invoice you for it :grin:
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Mark V GTD on 06 December 2013, 21:50
Very interesting - I wonder if this is a one-off - then again, I guess until someone pops up with a Sport and Sound option pack next year we are not going to be any wiser.....
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Robbo on 06 December 2013, 22:05
Sounds like Father Wolfsburg Christmas visited you early or VW have got their specs round their necks again... don't tell the salesman or he might invoice you for it :grin:

Fortunately it is a company car - so they can bill the lease company :evil:

Very interesting - I wonder if this is a one-off - then again, I guess until someone pops up with a Sport and Sound option pack next year we are not going to be any wiser.....

Looking again at the description for the pack on the VW web site, it does appear it might be a bit of luck having the actuator fitted, but your right, until we hear from someone who has shelled out the £255, or we hear from more BW45+ it is still a bit of a mystery.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Mark V GTD on 07 December 2013, 18:42
it does appear it might be a bit of luck having the actuator fitted,
Or bad luck if you did not want it!  :laugh:
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: CookieGTD on 07 December 2013, 18:53
I have a GTD on order at the moment and i'm hoping for a March delivery, I emailed the dealer today about this and supposedly the Sound Actuator has never been standard on the MK7 GTD? The one I test drove definitely had it and when I ordered mine (October) It wasn't on the options list so surely that means that it was standard fit?

If it was standard fit when I ordered what are the chances of the dealer honouring this if it is the case that this is now a (expensive) optional extra?


Cheers

Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Rich_G on 08 December 2013, 19:34
Cookie,

I've had the same conversation with both my dealer and VW UK and both deny that there was ever a sound actuator on pre BW45 cars. I've given up now.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Skinnee D on 09 December 2013, 17:28
Cookie,

I've had the same conversation with both my dealer and VW UK and both deny that there was ever a sound actuator on pre BW45 cars. I've given up now.
They're probably just going by what the brochure said.  To be fair it wasn't ever mentioned but was definitely fitted.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Mark V GTD on 09 December 2013, 19:15
So the distinction between a post BW45 car (with it on as a paid option) and a post BW45 where it has not been ordered (and presumablye therfor not fitted) has not yet been tested - and with five months to build won't be until next Spring!
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: CookieGTD on 09 December 2013, 20:36
Surely the sound actuator could be retrofitted to any car that is delivered without one anyway? MK6 sound actuators are £30 on the bay so surely anyone wanting one could just buy one, fit it and then get it coded if they are the same and if not buy a MK7 one from VW?

Cookie

Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: C2K on 09 December 2013, 20:45
So the distinction between a post BW45 car (with it on as a paid option) and a post BW45 where it has not been ordered (and presumablye therfor not fitted) has not yet been tested - and with five months to build won't be until next Spring!

Won't be that lon.   Those of us waiting on bw51 could have them end of Jan.  Bw47s arriving currently.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Mark V GTD on 09 December 2013, 23:21
But the option was not made available to order until BW45?
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Climb_Ne on 10 December 2013, 07:26
I have added the option tom my car due to be built in week 3 so you might not have to wait that long.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: mcmaddy on 10 December 2013, 08:55
Well now that my BW 45 has arrived (mirrors now fold/unfold on locking/unlocking), it appears that I have the Sound Actuator fitted.

With the mode in 'Normal', engine just sounds like you'd expect, but in 'Sport' the engine noise is much deeper, louder witha bit more of a growl.  Definitely a different sound between the 2 modes, managed to find a back road where I was able to try the modes back to back and accelerate (mainly in 2nd).  Tried it lots just to make sure of the difference too :wink:
can you scan your car with vcds to find out how to unfold the mirrors on unlock?
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Mark V GTD on 10 December 2013, 09:47
If people are getting it for free there will be some upset ones who are paying out £250!
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: 2014GTi on 10 December 2013, 09:52
To be fair this is marketing and Volkswagen AG have the right to change the spec of a car whenever they see fit.
If they remove something which was never stated on the specification when you order then they are well within their right to do so.
On the other hand if they remove something which is clearly states on the spec when you ordered and they have failed to notifiy you, then your well within your right to reject the car or seek compensation.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: derfster on 10 December 2013, 09:56
My GTD  finally got delivered yesterday, via a lease co so have no idea what build week, but. presumably sometime around wk 45 going on what seems to be being delivered this week. Have got sound actuator, mirror fold on lock/unlock, blue iphone connector , new lightning connector, and white label under filler cap flap.
All as standard so looks like a mix of pre and post wk 45 changes.
Well impressed so far, a very capable car, well worth the wait.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: monkeyhanger on 10 December 2013, 10:40
Don’t baby it when running in and don’t use Shell V-power to fuel it and you’ll be fine. My car’s performance has really come on in the last 600 miles after treating it a bit meaner, pity the mpg is still so-so for me.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: MaccaGTD on 10 December 2013, 12:27
Don’t baby it when running in and don’t use Shell V-power to fuel it and you’ll be fine. My car’s performance has really come on in the last 600 miles after treating it a bit meaner, pity the mpg is still so-so for me.

What issues did you have with Shell V-power, i did put a tank of BP Ultimate through last week from empty as usually just use a supermarket for reward points. With the BP ultimate i noticed a marked improvement in performance, quite considerable. MPG was poor though as wanted more of that extra performance. Back to usual this week and feels a bit sluggish.

Quite cool feature ive found on the sound actuator is that you can get it to work in Drive mode in the DSG. Basically select Sport profile and then use the pull back on the DSG to change from D to S without losing the actuator, always grunting well almost :smiley:.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: monkeyhanger on 10 December 2013, 13:20
Don’t baby it when running in and don’t use Shell V-power to fuel it and you’ll be fine. My car’s performance has really come on in the last 600 miles after treating it a bit meaner, pity the mpg is still so-so for me.

What issues did you have with Shell V-power, i did put a tank of BP Ultimate through last week from empty as usually just use a supermarket for reward points. With the BP ultimate i noticed a marked improvement in performance, quite considerable. MPG was poor though as wanted more of that extra performance. Back to usual this week and feels a bit sluggish.

Quite cool feature ive found on the sound actuator is that you can get it to work in Drive mode in the DSG. Basically select Sport profile and then use the pull back on the DSG to change from D to S without losing the actuator, always grunting well almost :smiley:.

With V-power, performance was slightly less than average, mpg was abysmal – it has significantly less chemical energy stored in it for combustion than regular diesel (smaller average carbon chain length)  – cleaner fuel, but less potent (unlike V-power petrol). Have been getting better results with Esso and Sainsburys Diesel.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Golfgtd2014 on 10 December 2013, 17:23
Hi!

Just to let you know the sound and sport pack gives you a sound actuator on the exhaust outside the car and comes on when you select sport mode.  There should be no change to the one in the car I guess?!  There are some clips of it on you tube as used to be only available in Europe originally but now uk also.

Annoyingly the online VW Configurator does not tell you exactly what it is from the description hence the confusion. You have to download the new gti/gtd/r brochure for the proper description.

There's some YouTube clips of the sound I believe. Different!

Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Skinnee D on 10 December 2013, 19:08
Hi!

Just to let you know the sound and sport pack gives you a sound actuator on the exhaust outside the car and comes on when you select sport mode.  There should be no change to the one in the car I guess?!  There are some clips of it on you tube as used to be only available in Europe originally but now uk also.

Annoyingly the online VW Configurator does not tell you exactly what it is from the description hence the confusion. You have to download the new gti/gtd/r brochure for the proper description.

There's some YouTube clips of the sound I believe. Different!
Have you got/seen a UK car that has a speaker(s) in the exhaust system? From info to date the non-UK Sport and Sound pack has that feature but is not the same as the UK option of the same name.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Mark V GTD on 10 December 2013, 19:37
Annoyingly the online VW Configurator does not tell you exactly what it is from the description hence the confusion.
Thanks for that - I will look at the new brochure - when the option was first announced it only made reference to sounds inside the cabin (which was what the device already fitted to pre BW45 cars did anyway!).
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: legin on 10 December 2013, 19:40
Don’t baby it when running in and don’t use Shell V-power to fuel it and you’ll be fine. My car’s performance has really come on in the last 600 miles after treating it a bit meaner, pity the mpg is still so-so for me.

What issues did you have with Shell V-power, i did put a tank of BP Ultimate through last week from empty as usually just use a supermarket for reward points. With the BP ultimate i noticed a marked improvement in performance, quite considerable. MPG was poor though as wanted more of that extra performance. Back to usual this week and feels a bit sluggish.

Quite cool feature ive found on the sound actuator is that you can get it to work in Drive mode in the DSG. Basically select Sport profile and then use the pull back on the DSG to change from D to S without losing the actuator, always grunting well almost :smiley:.

With V-power, performance was slightly less than average, mpg was abysmal – it has significantly less chemical energy stored in it for combustion than regular diesel (smaller average carbon chain length)  – cleaner fuel, but less potent (unlike V-power petrol). Have been getting better results with Esso and Sainsburys Diesel.

You will find that the V power diesel has a higher density and gtl content so it has more energy. I don't know how you got the poor result you did. I would recommend others try it and see. I use it in my audi and its more grunt and mpg.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Mark V GTD on 10 December 2013, 19:55
This is the Sound Aktor thread!!   :whistle:
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Robbo on 10 December 2013, 20:18
Well now that my BW 45 has arrived (mirrors now fold/unfold on locking/unlocking), it appears that I have the Sound Actuator fitted.

With the mode in 'Normal', engine just sounds like you'd expect, but in 'Sport' the engine noise is much deeper, louder witha bit more of a growl.  Definitely a different sound between the 2 modes, managed to find a back road where I was able to try the modes back to back and accelerate (mainly in 2nd).  Tried it lots just to make sure of the difference too :wink:
can you scan your car with vcds to find out how to unfold the mirrors on unlock?

Unfortunately I don't have a cable. If there is anyone in and around the Peterborough area that would be willing to have a look?
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: C2K on 10 December 2013, 21:42
Robbo, you must be local to me.   You didn't buy an ex demo from Robinsons by chance?
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Golfgtd2014 on 10 December 2013, 22:38
Quote from: Golfgtd2014 link=topic=259570.msg2412673#msg2412673 date=138669621
[/quote
Have you got/seen a UK car that has a speaker(s) in the exhaust system? From info to date the non-UK Sport and Sound pack has that feature but is not the same as the UK option of the same name.

I have not seen one with the option on. I changed my order 2 weeks ago to include it after clarifying with my dealer. I'll only know for sure when the car comes in Jan. But from the car I test drove when I originally ordered, the only extra noise in the car I got on sport mode was a deeper induction noise. The sport and sound pack is an exhaust sound actuator so is I'm told, different to original spec.  Whether that's externally as well then will be determined when I get it I guess but from what I have read and been told, it should be a different set up to the existing one people are comparing to.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Robbo on 11 December 2013, 14:01
Robbo, you must be local to me.   You didn't buy an ex demo from Robinsons by chance?

Yep, very local!  No, didn't buy an ex-demo from Robinsons, although will most likely be using them for servicing.  Fortunate to have a company car and lease company used Citygate VW down in High Wycombe (close to my work office).

Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: C2K on 11 December 2013, 18:37
Robbo, you must be local to me.   You didn't buy an ex demo from Robinsons by chance?

Yep, very local!  No, didn't buy an ex-demo from Robinsons, although will most likely be using them for servicing.  Fortunate to have a company car and lease company used Citygate VW down in High Wycombe (close to my work office).

good job, i rinsed their carbon grey demo to death haha.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: PGTD on 14 December 2013, 11:36
Quote from: Golfgtd2014 link=topic=259570.msg2412673#msg2412673 date=138669621
[/quote
Have you got/seen a UK car that has a speaker(s) in the exhaust system? From info to date the non-UK Sport and Sound pack has that feature but is not the same as the UK option of the same name.

I have not seen one with the option on. I changed my order 2 weeks ago to include it after clarifying with my dealer. I'll only know for sure when the car comes in Jan. But from the car I test drove when I originally ordered, the only extra noise in the car I got on sport mode was a deeper induction noise. The sport and sound pack is an exhaust sound actuator so is I'm told, different to original spec.  Whether that's externally as well then will be determined when I get it I guess but from what I have read and been told, it should be a different set up to the existing one people are comparing to.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: PGTD on 14 December 2013, 11:46

I've been following this subject for 6 m since I spotted German mk7 GTDs offered the Sport & Sound option which included the external sound from different exhaust system plus red callipers (pretty sure standard German car had unpainted ones??).
We know mk6 GTDs and first 6 m of mk7 GTDs had the bulkhead actuator as standard. It's a fair bet this will continue so the option is actually added just for the external sound actuator.
Wonder if the callipers will be red? Price list/options on VW UK doesn't mention this but if the Germans get them, will UK cars?
Who here has ordered the Sport & Sound option and what is their ETA? That's when we will find out for sure.
Finally, many - but not all - VW dealers' apparent ignorance about the (expensive) product they sell is disappointing judging by the confusion that has surrounded this and some other options.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: CR4ZYHOR5E on 14 December 2013, 15:06
I hope you're right and I am wrong, but my guess is that VW have simply started charging for something (internal sound actuator) that was previously standard. Shame they call it the same thing (Sport and Sound Pack) as a Euro Spec option that contains additional things (external sound actuator, red callipers etc…)
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: KyleB on 27 December 2013, 18:14
I've found a video on YouTube that might give us some more insight. Wondering if the sport and sound pack puts an acuator in the exhaust as opposed to just on bottom of the windscreen.

Certainly sounds like a different tone coming from the exhaust.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K6bl-oRfY8w
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Mark V GTD on 27 December 2013, 19:27
The UK brochure description of this option only describes an 'internal sound'....
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: PGTD on 28 December 2013, 08:14
Yes the on line configurator now carries more info on this option....seems to confirm internal sound only so VW now removing previously standard actuator and charging for it. Not sure there will be much take up for this option and I can't think of any other manufacturer who would do such a bizarre thing especially so early in production life of a model.
I did not buy my mk6 GTD new and only joined this forum quite recently so wonder if there was as much confusion surrounded the specs and options for the mk6 GTD/GTI in early days or is VW particularly bad for this now?
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: CookieGTD on 28 December 2013, 17:02
I have tried to get some sense out of my dealer who I ordered my GTD through in relation to this. They are saying that the the sound actuator was a standard fit item on the MK6 but not the MK7. I have raised that the vehicle I test drove definitely had the actuator fitted and at the time was not on the options list at all, therefore it must have been a standard fit item on the initial batches of the MK7 GTD and VW have decided that can now make money on something else. I got a reply about driver profiles being standard but not the sport pack. I have rephrased my question and I am awaiting a reply.

Hope everyone had a good christmas!

 
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Dave the Cat on 28 December 2013, 20:29
Yes I'm not getting any sense from VW salespeople on this either, have asked the crew on the BW51 thread to advise, once they take delivery if they have the bulkhead internal sound actuator on the GTD's - which was supposedly/potentially/changed/stopped/never existed and became new option from BW45.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Mark V GTD on 30 December 2013, 00:55
Fair play for raising it - but the chances of getting a straight answer are pretty slim. They don't know the answer - its all lost in translation between here and Germany and at the end of the day the small print says changes to specification can be made without notice etc... it will not be the first time they have made something a cost option that was previously standard.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Skinnee D on 09 January 2014, 07:30
Has anyone had the "sport and sound" option delivered yet in the UK?  Intrigued to know what VW actually end up shipping for this.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Golfgtd2014 on 09 January 2014, 17:00
Just to add some more confusion but the most definitive answer to date from VW to me is the below which I received today from the dealer.

With regards to the "Sport and sound pack" VW can only tell me what it says in the brochure.  It's an active exhaust valve that can be switched between sporty and eco driving styles quieting the exhaust note.  You probably won't notice it when the vehicle is at idle but should give it a deeper, raspier exhaust note when in sport mode with noticeable induction noise against a quieter exhaust note when in the Eco/Comfort mode.

Now my car has been pushed back to BW 3 which is frustrating so won't be able to confirm exactly until Feb but based on the above, I would expect the exhaust and internal actuator.

Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Carlosmonkey on 09 January 2014, 19:20
Just been to look at mine at dealers with sport and sound pack and it's got red calipers :laugh:, not managed to hear exhaust sound yet but salesman says it sounds different to standard ones , will let you know more when I pick it up tomorrow
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: CR4ZYHOR5E on 09 January 2014, 19:26
Just to add some more confusion but the most definitive answer to date from VW to me is the below which I received today from the dealer.

With regards to the "Sport and sound pack" VW can only tell me what it says in the brochure.  It's an active exhaust valve that can be switched between sporty and eco driving styles quieting the exhaust note.  You probably won't notice it when the vehicle is at idle but should give it a deeper, raspier exhaust note when in sport mode with noticeable induction noise against a quieter exhaust note when in the Eco/Comfort mode.

Now my car has been pushed back to BW 3 which is frustrating so won't be able to confirm exactly until Feb but based on the above, I would expect the exhaust and internal actuator.

But the brochure (or at least the description on the online configurator that I am looking at) is crystal clear...it says in plain english that the sound is internal only. The brochure describes the internal sound actuator that appears to have been delivered as standard on GTDs prior to it being offered only as an option.

Sport & sound pack

This sound generator enhances the aural sensation for the driver and other passengers. In 'Sport' mode (using the Driver Profile Selector) there is an additional acoustic emphasis to the sound of the engine inside the car, with no additional noise externally.


The only way we will know is when someone who has ordered it picks up their car.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Golfgtd2014 on 09 January 2014, 20:28
I agree crazyhorse. Not sure what brochure they refer to but it seems there's a description issue on the marketing material available from VW uk. From what carlosmonkey is saying, this seems correct though.  Don't see where the red callipers come from! That must be an added bonus but does at least bring it inline the same pack available in Europe if that's the case.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Mark V GTD on 09 January 2014, 21:13
This would not be the first time VWUK have removed an item from standard spec and placed it on the options list (Mk.V SE if anyone remembers)...
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Carlosmonkey on 10 January 2014, 15:06
Just picked mine gtd up with spirt and sound pack and must have been a cock up somewhere cos iv got the European spec with red brake calipers and the straight through exhaust with external sound :laugh: :laugh: :shocked:dealer can't understand what's happened
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: CR4ZYHOR5E on 10 January 2014, 15:45
More confusion then. Will be interesting to see if yours is a one off or in fact the Sport and Sound Pack (despite what the literature says) is supposed to come with the active exhaust, as yours has. Carlos, can you post some pics if you get the chance?

Enjoy
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: KyleB on 10 January 2014, 17:59
You sure your steering wheel is on the right side Carlos?! ;-) Get some pictures up pal.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Mark V GTD on 10 January 2014, 21:13
Not sure why Carlos's dealer would be so surprised considering his must be virtually the first car in the UK with the option on (and there is obvious confusion with regards what the option consisist of).
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Carlosmonkey on 10 January 2014, 21:48
Defiantly right hand drive :smiley:dealer was surprised due to being reminded  that red calipers were no longer an option. all mechanics could not believe sound, so parked it next to demo gtd and that had rear back box on exhaust where as mine goes straight through the same as some videos on YouTube, will post pictures tomorrow but am at work all weekend so can this be done easily from iphone???.Amazing car surprises(distracts) all the time,is it me or do the fog lights switch when going round tight hairpin bends?
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: KyleB on 10 January 2014, 22:20
Yeah fogs should turn on when going round bends at slow speeds. Your headlights will also turn with the corner too when in all modes barring Eco.

I'd be very interested to see pics and vids mate if you wouldn't mind when you get a chance!
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Gordor on 10 January 2014, 22:33
Yeah fogs should turn on when going round bends at slow speeds. Your headlights will also turn with the corner too when in all modes barring Eco.

I'd be very interested to see pics and vids mate if you wouldn't mind when you get a chance!

Not sure it's the fogs Kyle, there are separate bulbs in the headlights I think. These also my be the ones that show as a little rectangle dot when the lights are on?
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: KyleB on 10 January 2014, 22:51
Yeah fogs should turn on when going round bends at slow speeds. Your headlights will also turn with the corner too when in all modes barring Eco.

I'd be very interested to see pics and vids mate if you wouldn't mind when you get a chance!

Not sure it's the fogs Kyle, there are separate bulbs in the headlights I think. These also my be the ones that show as a little rectangle dot when the lights are on?

I'm sure my fogs come on when I'm turning into my drive on a night time (obviously at a low speed). Anyone else get their fogs coming on? I say fogs because it's so low down.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: dippy_x on 10 January 2014, 23:47
I get the light coming on when turning at low speeds but it's not the fog light.  Afaik It's the sidelight inside the headlights.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Mark V GTD on 11 January 2014, 00:14
There is indeed a dedicated turning light inside the headlight unit on the GTD and GTI (its a conventional filament bulb). The Mk.6 and Scirocco also had the facilty to switch on active cornering fog lights via VCDS which might be available on the Mk.7 too....
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Carlosmonkey on 11 January 2014, 22:07
Managed to get a few photos today does sound awesome
(http://i996.photobucket.com/albums/af83/Carolsmonkey/15a81f78-6b19-469f-bce9-0a0cb65afd09_zps5c9047b3.jpg) (http://s996.photobucket.com/user/Carolsmonkey/media/15a81f78-6b19-469f-bce9-0a0cb65afd09_zps5c9047b3.jpg.html)
(http://i996.photobucket.com/albums/af83/Carolsmonkey/image_zps67fcd28f.jpg) (http://s996.photobucket.com/user/Carolsmonkey/media/image_zps67fcd28f.jpg.html)

(http://i996.photobucket.com/albums/af83/Carolsmonkey/image_zps17cc7fec.jpg) (http://s996.photobucket.com/user/Carolsmonkey/media/image_zps17cc7fec.jpg.html)
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: KyleB on 11 January 2014, 23:10
Great pics Carlos, calipers look good. Exhaust is definitely different to mine too so sport and sound pack must alter exhaust

Would love to hear it if you could post a video maypte.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Skinnee D on 13 January 2014, 19:31
Nice one Carlos - that does look like the German version with the loudspeaker system in the exhaust (will there be a Dynaudio option? :grin:)
Full marks to VW for more misleading online descriptions - underselling for a change...
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Climb_Ne on 14 January 2014, 22:25
My cars due to be built next week and I managed to spec the sport and sound so I hope this is the package I receive. Based on the GTI pictures pure white and the red really goes together well.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Mk1Macca on 17 January 2014, 10:21
http://www.vwaudiforum.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?149407-golf-mk7-gtd-sound-actuator (http://www.vwaudiforum.co.uk/forum/showthread.php?149407-golf-mk7-gtd-sound-actuator)

This thread seems to give a bit more detail on the system.

Anyone know if it might be possible to buy the exhaust section separately? I don't want the speaker in the exhaust (that just seems weird), but removing the rear box should give it a bit more of a grumble.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: monsta on 17 January 2014, 17:44
That's quite a grumble, surprising they don't offer that on Euro GTI models too?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K6bl-oRfY8w#t=33 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K6bl-oRfY8w#t=33)
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: C2K on 19 January 2014, 15:23
Had it shown me the exhaust on the configurator I would likely have specced it. Having no clue what the package did from the configurator description, I'm surprised anyone did!
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: AdmiralGant on 21 January 2014, 21:11
Just had my GTD delivered today at home - I ordered it back in August when there was no Sport and Sound pack, however it definately has the actuator fitted and sounds a beast in Sport mode even at low ish revs - the exhaust however is standard system - the car was built just before Christmas

Having had 5 BMWs and 2 Mercs before this I must say the fit and finish is just as good and the carbon grey paint work looks stunning even on a damp dull day like today.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: jivemonkey on 21 January 2014, 21:33
Just had my GTD delivered today at home - I ordered it back in August when there was no Sport and Sound pack, however it definately has the actuator fitted and sounds a beast in Sport mode even at low ish revs - the exhaust however is standard system - the car was built just before Christmas

Having had 5 BMWs and 2 Mercs before this I must say the fit and finish is just as good and the carbon grey paint work looks stunning even on a damp dull day like today.

Congrats on the car!

Glad you see it didn't take you too long to stick it in sport and take it for a spin  :grin: How do you find how it holds on to 2nd with DSG..?
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: AdmiralGant on 21 January 2014, 21:59
Thanks Jivemonkey.

It is only the beginning but I can already feel a love affair brewing...

I put it in Sport on the touch screen of display - I assume this puts the gearbox into sport too - only did it once out of a junction and it sounded great going up through the gears but I did not want to rev it over 3000rpm yet. She had only 7 miles on the clock this morning.

Got a trip to Gloucestershire Thursday - back Friday, so it should have 500 miles clocked then and can hopefully report what it is like in more detail.

Admiral G
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: PReardon78 on 24 January 2014, 14:30
Hi

Fantastic looking car, I ordered mine in November with the Sport & Sound Pack, it is due at the end of March so am keeping fingers crossed it will have the difference exhaust and red callipers.

Enjoy
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: davyk31 on 24 January 2014, 21:22
I got my GTD today, how do you know if you have the sound actuator on its own?

Certainly in Sport it does sound quite grunty !!
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: AdmiralGant on 24 January 2014, 21:59
Hi Daveyk31 - that is my feeling, Sport mode on the ACC completely sounds different - as you say grunty - I can only think it is that - unless anyone else can tell us different.

Hope you are impressed so far - I am looking forward to the 1000 mile mark!  :smiley:
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: davyk31 on 24 January 2014, 22:01
1000 miles seems a long way off for me, delivered today with 9 miles, now just 39   :smiley:

Loving it so far, really well put together, drive great, plenty of power and decent economy even with such low miles on the engine.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Skinnee D on 25 January 2014, 09:26
I got my GTD today, how do you know if you have the sound actuator on its own?

Certainly in Sport it does sound quite grunty !!
Welcome to the club mate :smiley: If you have the internal sound actuator you'll hear an added grumble inside the car in sport mode when accelerating, as distinct from the other modes.  If you have an external sound actuator (speakers in the exhaust) your exhaust won't have any transverse silencer just behind the rear bumper.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Golfgtd2014 on 28 January 2014, 14:39
Just to update that my car arrived at the dealership yesterday and it also has the red callipers and external exhaust actuator. So it would seem that the sport and sound pack for the uk is the same as what's offered in Europe.  Would help though if they actually described it properly in the brochure so people can make an informed decision. 
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: ffrank on 28 January 2014, 18:17
Just to update that my car arrived at the dealership yesterday and it also has the red callipers and external exhaust actuator. So it would seem that the sport and sound pack for the uk is the same as what's offered in Europe.  Would help though if they actually described it properly in the brochure so people can make an informed decision.
Thanks for confirming! Just about to place my order and I will be adding the Sport and Sound pack, so that was good timing to hear a second experience of this option. What colour is your car then?
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Golfgtd2014 on 28 January 2014, 22:00
The car I brought for my partner and she wanted midnight blue which i was a little hesitate about at first. But now I have seen it in the flesh, it looks really nice.  For the price, the sport and sound pack seems quite reasonable for what you get so would defiantly recommend if you fancy a diesel that sounds a bit more aggressive. I think I will like this option more than my partner though! :-)
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: ffrank on 29 January 2014, 08:19
It does seem good value now we know it's the full pack. I wonder why VW didn't offer it from day one in the UK. I do like the Midnight Blue, must look good with the red calipers? If you get a chance to post a pic or 2 that would be grand! I'm going for Carbon Grey, but have toyed with most colours at one point or another :)
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: karlak on 29 January 2014, 08:23
Any close up pictures of the Calipers ?  Just standard calipers painted Red or an uprated item ?

I was in two minds about adding this to my order, but just read that the "faster" the car goes, the "lower" the volume becomes. My concern was that on a long motorway run, the noise would become tiresome and a bit intrusive, but this would seem to not be the case.

Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: ffrank on 29 January 2014, 14:06
That's true Karlak, and also you can just set the Engine to Comfort or Normal on the motorway to turn off the actuators. I suppose the exhaust may still sound slightly different though.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Golfgtd2014 on 29 January 2014, 22:32
Midnight blue does look good with the red callipers. They just look like standard gtd callipers to me. Sound wise, it sounds it's best at low revving as like you said it gets quieter the further up the rev range it goes. I'll have to see what living with it sounds like when we pick it up next week.  I'll post some pics when we get it as the only ones I have are with it covered in white film!
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: karlak on 29 January 2014, 23:45
So to clarify,

We think we get 3 items with this option -

-Red Calipers (prob standard spec, with a lick of paint)
-The speaker thingy to make it sound a bit more sporty
and
-The different exhaust system without the rear back box.


Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: matt2 on 30 January 2014, 08:51
Just to confuse....... I thick that card without the pack get a speaker under the windscreen. Of that is what you were referring to, does that come with all GTDs?
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Mark V GTD on 30 January 2014, 10:01
The 'Soundaktor' - yes I believe they all still do - but its only active in Sport profile as far as I can determine.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: matt2 on 30 January 2014, 14:10
The 'Soundaktor' - yes I believe they all still do - but its only active in Sport profile as far as I can determine.

Yeah - that was my understanding. The Sport and Sound pack includes red calipers and different exhaust in addition to the speaker under the windscreen.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: jivemonkey on 30 January 2014, 14:18
The 'Soundaktor' - yes I believe they all still do - but its only active in Sport profile as far as I can determine.

Yeah - that was my understanding. The Sport and Sound pack includes red calipers and different exhaust in addition to the speaker under the windscreen.

..plus a speaker in the exhaust..
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: p3asa on 30 January 2014, 16:03
I suppose this makes sense as "Sport and Sound Pack" suggest it is more than just one thing.
Otherwise they would just have called it "Sound pack"
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Mark V GTD on 30 January 2014, 19:43
If it was one thing they could only really call it 'sound'! The word 'pack' implies multiple items....
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: CR4ZYHOR5E on 03 February 2014, 14:18
Okay, so the Sport and Sound Pack gets you red brake callipers, internal sound actuator (windscreen) and external sound actuator (straight through exhaust + speaker in exhaust)...

Has anyone taken delivery of a BW45+ car without S&S Pack who can confirm that the internal sounds actuator (windscreen) is still standard spec?

I've ordered my company car without S&S pack because at the time of ordering consensus was that it was just the internal actuator. Probably could add it still, but will stick with standard spec if the internal actuator is conformed as standard spec.

Anyone?
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: corgi on 03 February 2014, 14:30
Mine was built Wk46 and has the sound actuator...

BUT

They were supposed to have fixed the advanced telephone prep no MDI port issue by BW 45 and I don't have an MDI port...

So, perhaps mine is not the best example...
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: stuart.cameron on 03 February 2014, 14:34
In sport my BW51 without the sport and sound package definitely has a sound actuator!
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: CR4ZYHOR5E on 03 February 2014, 14:52
Nice one, thanks Stuart and Corgi.

Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: AdmiralGant on 03 February 2014, 20:47
Can also confirm, my one was build week 50ish, I did not add the sport & sound pack but it definitely has the sound actuator - it sounds great inside the car in sport mode!
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: corgi on 03 February 2014, 23:13
Can also confirm, my one was build week 50ish, I did not add the sport & sound pack but it definitely has the sound actuator - it sounds great inside the car in sport mode!

Qu

I think it sounds artificial... Why spend millions in R&D to reduce NVH and then spend a tenner to add it back in?
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: mrluketee on 04 February 2014, 08:10
Can also confirm, my one was build week 50ish, I did not add the sport & sound pack but it definitely has the sound actuator - it sounds great inside the car in sport mode!

Qu

I think it sounds artificial... Why spend millions in R&D to reduce NVH and then spend a tenner to add it back in?

Tend to agree with Corgi. I read a review that praised the car but said the sound actuator got a little annoying especially if you are trying to listen to the revs with a view to changing gears at the optimal time. I'll be disconnecting mine I think, not sure yet.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: davyk31 on 04 February 2014, 10:52
I'm pretty sure my car also has the sound actuator as it gets louder in sport mode. Not really sure I think much of the noise to be honest, just seems like a louder diesel engine noise. The pack that includes the different exhaust noises may be a lot better.

As regards noises I am also waiting for an Audi SQ5 which has the speaker in the exhaust, that does sound pretty exceptional!!
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: corgi on 04 February 2014, 11:00
I have a Porsche 911 (996) with PSE (Porsche Sports Exhaust), it has no speaker in the exhaust and sounds excellent and makes a proper noise... It was designed that way.

Am I the only one who finds it ridiculous that car manufacturers are having to artificially generate noise to make their cars seem more interesting.

I want my golf to be quiet, its the car that I do the boring miles in when I can... but if I want the sportier throttle map then I have to put up with some pathetic artificial warbling...

If I want the Porsche to be quiet (and it is not often that I do) I can just turn the exhaust off, it makes it quieter but doesn't affect the performance in any way...

Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: ffrank on 04 February 2014, 13:47
I have a Porsche 911 (996) with PSE (Porsche Sports Exhaust), it has no speaker in the exhaust and sounds excellent and makes a proper noise... It was designed that way.

Am I the only one who finds it ridiculous that car manufacturers are having to artificially generate noise to make their cars seem more interesting.

I want my golf to be quiet, its the car that I do the boring miles in when I can... but if I want the sportier throttle map then I have to put up with some pathetic artificial warbling...

If I want the Porsche to be quiet (and it is not often that I do) I can just turn the exhaust off, it makes it quieter but doesn't affect the performance in any way...
I know what you are saying, but if you didn't have the Porsche (and it's aural sporty delights), could you not imagine having a GTD and fancying a throatier exhaust?

It may be more than just an exhaust on the Golf, but I'm sure Porsche spent some time and money getting the right sound from the 996 too.

At the end of the day it's all about putting a smile on your face, I'm expecting the sound in my GTD to add some fun when I want it. If money was not an object I'd happily retire the Sports and Sound pack for a V8 Jag or Aston :)
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: corgi on 04 February 2014, 13:55
I know what you are saying, but if you didn't have the Porsche (and it's aural sporty delights), could you not imagine having a GTD and fancying a throatier exhaust?

It may be more than just an exhaust on the Golf, but I'm sure Porsche spent some time and money getting the right sound from the 996 too.

At the end of the day it's all about putting a smile on your face, I'm expecting the sound in my GTD to add some fun when I want it. If money was not an object I'd happily retire the Sports and Sound pack for a V8 Jag or Aston :)

No doubt that Porsche invested in making sure the 996 sounded right - but it is a sports car... the Golf is, in reality, a sporty hatchback...

For you it may be all about putting a smile on your face, for me it is about getting to where I need to go quickly and quietly when I'm in the Golf.

Now, here's a thing... You could have a good 996 with PSE or a V8 (with an exhaust upgrade) Jag for an awful lot less than a the purchase price of a Golf GTI/D and still have huge amounts of money spare to run them... the smile on your face was the biggest driver on your car purchase... you wouldn't even consider a Golf...
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: ffrank on 04 February 2014, 17:59
I know what you are saying, but if you didn't have the Porsche (and it's aural sporty delights), could you not imagine having a GTD and fancying a throatier exhaust?

It may be more than just an exhaust on the Golf, but I'm sure Porsche spent some time and money getting the right sound from the 996 too.

At the end of the day it's all about putting a smile on your face, I'm expecting the sound in my GTD to add some fun when I want it. If money was not an object I'd happily retire the Sports and Sound pack for a V8 Jag or Aston :)

No doubt that Porsche invested in making sure the 996 sounded right - but it is a sports car... the Golf is, in reality, a sporty hatchback...

For you it may be all about putting a smile on your face, for me it is about getting to where I need to go quickly and quietly when I'm in the Golf.

Now, here's a thing... You could have a good 996 with PSE or a V8 (with an exhaust upgrade) Jag for an awful lot less than a the purchase price of a Golf GTI/D and still have huge amounts of money spare to run them... the smile on your face was the biggest driver on your car purchase... you wouldn't even consider a Golf...
The smile on my face is the biggest driver for my purchase. But currently there are many things required to put a smile on this face - practicality, running costs, professional image, reliability, personal appeal, technology, comfort and... a happy Wife... :)

I kind of feel it's a moot point, if we could get a better sporty experience elsewhere, if I'm buying a golf for a dozen other reasons, why not enjoy some extra fun with the exhaust note? After all, I'm not looking to make a 60bhp 1 litre sound like a Ferrari. The GTD is a sporty car as you have said, and I too will enjoy getting places quickly and quietly, but with an added exhaust rasp when I fancy it!

Edit- typo.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: AdmiralGant on 04 February 2014, 21:53
I agree ffrank - it is perhaps a marmite thing - some people will love it (me included) some will hate it. I must admit I would not want it all the time, so very glad it is only in "sport" mode, also I fear it will have an adverse effect on fuel consumption (not the noise/device but using the sound/performance).

What I would say is it sounds 10 times better than a Merc C220CDi I had on an 08 plate from new a few years ago - that sounded like an old tractor driving around town and Mercedes still fit that engine now in most models.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: ffrank on 06 February 2014, 16:31
Can't wait AdmiralGant :) End of May for me most likely.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: marssot on 15 February 2014, 19:10
French REXP of GTD owner, purchased in june 2013.
Option packages:

- DCC with sport & sound
- Drive assist 2

I've been arguing with my car dealer for three months, coz the vehicle was supposed to be equipped with sound actuator (external exhaust & speaker) but it's not.
VW indicated on its july 2013 french price list, sound actuator equipped with Drive assist 2 package but deleted it on its february 2014 price list...

French buyers can't order a GTD with both Sport & Sound and Drive assist 2 packages...Weird and frustrating and no technical explanations from VW car dealers.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Mark V GTD on 15 February 2014, 22:22
What does the 'Drive Assist 2' package include?
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: fisco on 11 March 2014, 21:26
Hello all,

I have just joined the forum, after reading various threads over the last couple of weeks, and still pondering the sport & sound pack. I ordered a GTD at the beginning of Feb, in Carbon Grey, and with the winterpack, but haven't spec'd anything else, although I am considering the S&S pack, as I don;t yet have a build week.
It does seem odd that, my dealer has no further info, about the pack other than what I can read on the website, and therefore cannot confirm or deny, what the S&S pack includes, although they did concede that every GTD they have had so far, does have an internal sound device, the give a sport rumble particularly in sport mode.
I phone VW customer support, and I was told that, the S&S pack, may well include the alternative exhaust system, and also said that this addition, used the same controller as the internal one, but again could not confirm this, and also had not heard of the red calipers being part of the option.
So even though there is a post on page 9 with photo's posted by a member who has received his car, with this pack, and does indeed have the exhaust and red calipers, I am still left a little confused, as was his dealer when the car arrived... 
It does seem rather odd that, VW CS and the dealers, haven't a clue whats actually included, as I would like to add it, but not if I'm only going to end up with what is described on the configurator..
Has anyone else here, optioned this?, received what everyone hopes...
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Climb_Ne on 11 March 2014, 22:16
I added the sport and sound pack to my order which was delivered for the 1st of March and can confirm that I have red calipers as well as an exhaust with no rear silencer and the external sound actuator.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: fisco on 11 March 2014, 22:26
Thank you for your reply, I guess that confirms it then. I think I will be on the phone to the dealer first thing, to add this to my order.

Are you pleased with it?? recommended option??

Thanks again
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Mark V GTD on 11 March 2014, 23:52
Plenty of people with this option now to confirm whats included. Yet VWUK continue to run a completely inaccurate description which only adds to the confusion.

Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: C2K on 12 March 2014, 08:24
As above, I gave this as feedback on my customer survey and to the dealers also - if they'd bother to elaborate on it I would have almost certainly chosen it for the exhaust. Red calipers mean nothing to me as I have a blue car, but the exhaust would've been a fine addition.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Mark V GTD on 16 March 2014, 14:14
Why does having a blue car stop you having red callipers - I would have thought they would be a nice contrast?
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Mk1Macca on 22 March 2014, 09:22
Is there any word on if we can buy the exhaust section to fit ourselves?
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: corgi on 23 March 2014, 14:53
Is there any word on if we can buy the exhaust section to fit ourselves?

It must be listed on the VW parts catalogue...
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Rick101 on 29 March 2014, 14:47
I have a sound actuator in the garage.

It's called an M3 :evil:
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Moots on 23 April 2014, 17:23
dealership came back to me today and said that this definitely isn't correct. The only thing the sport and sound pack adds is the sound actuator. He also said that he was told a few had been sent out back end of last year mis-configured.

Not sure i believe that tbh. I'm still tempted to order it with the kit, i'd be mighty pissed off if it turned up without now though  :angry:
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: ffrank on 23 April 2014, 17:44
Well I hope he is wrong, I've seen probably 3 guys on here/another forum with the red callipers delivered this year. If it is just the exhaust it seems very strange how it is is called Sport and Sound Pack.

I'll let you know in 10 days or so!!
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: corgi on 23 April 2014, 18:21
i'd be mighty pissed off if it turned up without now though  :angry:

why? If they have told you this...
dealership came back to me today and said that this definitely isn't correct. The only thing the sport and sound pack adds is the sound actuator. He also said that he was told a few had been sent out back end of last year mis-configured.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Jembo28 on 23 April 2014, 18:44
Having read this entire thread (sad I know) I'm convinced that without the option you get an actuator inside the car that is only activated in sport mode.

If you do add the Sport and Sound pack as an option you also get red calipers and a different exhaust with an additional speaker built into it.

My question is, has anyone got experience of both of these, i.e. With and without, and can they comment on whether it's worth adding on as an option? I drove one without as a demo for the weekend and found that in Sport mode the sound was great - is it any better as the driver of the car with the option box ticked, or is the benefit only for the people you drive past who experience a better sound from the exhaust!

Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Moots on 23 April 2014, 20:22
i'd be mighty pissed off if it turned up without now though  :angry:

why? If they have told you this...
dealership came back to me today and said that this definitely isn't correct. The only thing the sport and sound pack adds is the sound actuator. He also said that he was told a few had been sent out back end of last year mis-configured.

Presuming you're just on the wind up?

I'd be annoyed because there's no consistency, no one at VW can give a straight answer. It seems a few people on here have ordered it and ended up with the extra bits, the dealers telling me that this is due to a mistake (although personally i think he's trying to cover his own arse) so i could end up spending £255 and ending up with a fake noise box. that's a waste of £255 in my opinion.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Mark V GTD on 23 April 2014, 21:57
Sadly neither the dealer or VWUK are correct. The 'Sport and Sound' pack includes an integral exhaust speaker and red callipers.

All GTD's already have the internal 'sound aktor' (again denied by VW but for goodness sake everyone can hear it!).

Think about it - if its only the 'sound aktor' (which is in every GTD anyway) - then what are you getting for 255 quid? According to VW - nothing!  This does not make sense and to support it there are quite a few members here who ordered the pack and had the red callipers and exhaust speaker. Everyone else who did not order it (including me) got the internal speaker only.

At the end of the day VWUK and dealers can say what they like - VW Germany build the cars and if that option box is ticked on your order this is what you get...
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: ffrank on 23 April 2014, 22:30
Spot on Mark. I also just saw another new car post on the Golfmk7 forum, arrived this week with the exhaust and red callipers.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Ross Detours on 24 April 2014, 11:04
I've got the S&S option ticked and if my car doesn't come with red calipers and the straight exhaust then I won't be a happy bunny!
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Mark V GTD on 24 April 2014, 13:02
Don't worry - it will!

What did the dealer think it included?
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Ross Detours on 24 April 2014, 13:27
Haha I know, I'm kidding!

I didn't even mention it to the dealer, I knew that I wanted it just from reading the info shared on here!
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Jembo28 on 24 April 2014, 20:26
Haha I know, I'm kidding!

I didn't even mention it to the dealer, I knew that I wanted it just from reading the info shared on here!

Have you heard positive reaction, if so what? All I can find is confirmation(eventually and no thanks to VW!) of what it includes...

I like the idea of it but don't want to pay just for red calipers, if there's not much difference in sound from inside the cabin - thought that it sounded really good as standard with Sport mode selected. What's your reason for wanting it?
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Ross Detours on 24 April 2014, 20:35
TBH I would happily paint the calipers myself but I like the idea that the car sounds good from the actual exhaust too! It's not a make or break option but it worked within my budget so thought I'd give it a go! I've only seen one video of the external sound online but it sounds great!
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Jembo28 on 08 May 2014, 15:03
Just found this on YouTube - Dutch car, presumably with S&S by the sounds of things...

http://youtu.be/mFtOlGnl8Wc
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Ross Detours on 08 May 2014, 15:18
I saw this one a while ago... sounds great. I just wonder how much of this will be audible from the drivers seat!
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: matchboy on 08 May 2014, 15:20
My missus is just in the process of ordering a GTD with this option ticked - it will be a few months before she gets it but I'll be very interested in how it sounds.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Ross Detours on 08 May 2014, 15:35
Mine should be here in the next fortnight so I'll let you all know!
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: ffrank on 08 May 2014, 18:07
And I'll let you know next Thursday! :D
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Jembo28 on 09 May 2014, 14:55
Ross & Frank - do let us know...

I've just put my order in. Carbon Grey manual with SatNav, Keyless, Sport & Sound and the Winter Pack. Now the long wait begins...
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: matchboy on 09 May 2014, 15:35
Ross & Frank - do let us know...

I've just put my order in. Carbon Grey manual with SatNav, Keyless, Sport & Sound and the Winter Pack. Now the long wait begins...

Yes, me & the missus would be very interested also!  She's just put her order in - Pure White, Keyless, DNS Pro, Dynaudio and the Sport & Sound Pack  :cool:
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: ffrank on 09 May 2014, 17:20
I won't get to hear the car until Thursday, but I can confirm - it has arrived with Red Calipers :)
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Jembo28 on 09 May 2014, 18:09
You can see it, but you can't drive it until next week?

Torture!!!!!
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: ffrank on 09 May 2014, 18:12
Lol, yep. PDI next week, pickup first thing Thursday! Although I haven't actually seen it, dealer sent me pics (see bw15 thread). I'm staying well clear and trying not to think about it... :)
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: phazer on 10 May 2014, 18:04
Evening All,

Been a lurker since we ordered our GTD in Jan. We've seen it at the dealers today so thought I'd post a couple of pics as we have the S&S pack  :smiley:

Red brakes:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v386/phazer_mig/164acfda-d6a7-4d3e-9767-b938f45aa62c_zpsa36af432.jpg)

Exhaust - not the best pic I'm afraid but you can see it's straight through with no back box:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v386/phazer_mig/20140510_140935_zps1g9dwvif.jpg)

Hopefully that puts some minds at rest? Just got to wait to pick it up now...tick...tick... lol

Cheers

Phil
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Moots on 10 May 2014, 18:07
Awesome, thanks Phazer.

Dealership called me to confirm that mine has had the S&S pack added, didn't ask for payment for it though! Heere's hoping he forgets, either that or waves it after telling me it'd be delivered inside 12 weeks.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: ffrank on 10 May 2014, 18:18
Hi phazer! Very nice. But where is the vw badge from your alloy?

Edit - maybe it is added as part of the pdi?
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: p3asa on 10 May 2014, 19:12
Wheel caps and nut covers are added at PDI amongst other things.
Thanks for sharing that Phazer. Is that carbon you have went for?
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: phazer on 11 May 2014, 16:02
Yep wheel caps are in the boot, it's not had its PDI yet, still has the wraps on.

Moots: Be nice if you get it for free!

Certainly is Carbon  :cool:, full pic:
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v386/phazer_mig/913da7e7-4886-40a3-b596-9a83f19a07f6_zps720e270a.jpg)

It's really nice! Shame it's my wife's car lol
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: KyleB on 12 May 2014, 10:54
Would love it if they can retrofit these. Not so bothered about the red calipers but really want a better sounding exhaust note.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Jembo28 on 13 May 2014, 17:00
Nice one Phazer, and quality lurking. Looks like you've a similar spec to me... Sadly my wait still has three months left...
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: phazer on 13 May 2014, 18:45
Nice one Phazer, and quality lurking. Looks like you've a similar spec to me... Sadly my wait still has three months left...

hehe didn't really have anything to add until now as it's our first Golf! The closer it gets the longer it seems to take  :grin:
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: ffrank on 15 May 2014, 10:35
Picked my car up this morning, can confirm - it sounds amazing!!

It was the first S&S the dealer had sold so we all stood around whilst he blipped the gas pedal through the door with big grins on our faces :D

Can confirm the exhaust sounds amazing from the cabin too.

The car in general is just amazing, and the Night blue in the sun is unbelievable. Working in the office today so counting down the minutes to lunch break....
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: p3asa on 15 May 2014, 10:39
Mandatory pictures ffrank. Even if it is on a phone  :smiley:
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: ffrank on 15 May 2014, 10:56
Lol, yeh, I know the rules ;)

It's just been had a water jet - no hand wash yet (at my request). Can't imagine how it will look after a proper detail!
(http://i.imgur.com/osklW8V.jpg)
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: phazer on 15 May 2014, 13:40
Looking good ffrank - I really like the blue, it'll look great when it's been fully detailed.

Excellent news on the exhaust! Glad that option was added :)
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: p3asa on 15 May 2014, 22:51
Looking great ffrank especially in the sun.
I bet it made the waiting all worth it.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: ffrank on 16 May 2014, 17:11
Thanks guys, really enjoying the colour (and the car!) wait is definitely worth it :)

Here's a pic after todays detailing, will try and get some more pics once my camera battery is charged!

(http://i.imgur.com/kzLafbl.jpg)

And the calipers:

(http://i.imgur.com/5BJujYI.jpg)
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Ross Detours on 16 May 2014, 17:13
Looks awesome. A video of the sound would be great considering the thread title...  :whistle:
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: ffrank on 16 May 2014, 17:57
Ha ha, I did think I would give it a go - will see what I can do ;)
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: phazer on 26 May 2014, 22:04
Hi, finally picked the car up on Friday, no pics yet as I've been detailing it and sorting the paint sealant, not quite done yet  :nerd:

Took the opportunity to get some exhaust sound clips.

Normal setting:
http://smg.photobucket.com/user/phazer_mig/media/Golf/20140526_172237_zps6e9f3f90.mp4.html (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/phazer_mig/media/Golf/20140526_172237_zps6e9f3f90.mp4.html)
Sport setting:
http://smg.photobucket.com/user/phazer_mig/media/Golf/20140526_172305_zpsf0058359.mp4.html (http://smg.photobucket.com/user/phazer_mig/media/Golf/20140526_172305_zpsf0058359.mp4.html)

Some pics of the front brakes ('Scuse the rust, was washed and straight inside):
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v386/phazer_mig/Golf/425c4d4f-dec3-437f-b0da-f35ba87dfdac_zps9c903c82.jpg)
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v386/phazer_mig/Golf/ee7d4992-6e32-4b58-b811-aee4d2e0c424_zps3ca50061.jpg)

Anyone know if the callipers are different to the normal grey ones? Any bigger? Only reason I ask is the pads have 'L' stamped on them but the regular brakes have 'H', bit weird??

Some better pics of the exhaust pipework
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v386/phazer_mig/Golf/52124ff9-4229-48aa-88f8-cbb1896e373d_zps47fdaacf.jpg)

This is the thing that makes the noise, you can see it join into the end of the pipework
(http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v386/phazer_mig/Golf/9cb5d29e-6a6d-4cee-9908-6b7a52a5a632_zps2389d1cb.jpg)

Looked up the company name stamped on the noise maker, some info here for those interested
http://www.eberspaecher.com/nc/en/press/press-releases/individual-view/article/sound-or-silence-new-technology-for-silencing-and-sound-design/419.html (http://www.eberspaecher.com/nc/en/press/press-releases/individual-view/article/sound-or-silence-new-technology-for-silencing-and-sound-design/419.html)

Hopefully interesting to someone  :smiley:

Phil
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: p3asa on 26 May 2014, 22:41
Very informative. Thanks for that phazer.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Ross Detours on 27 May 2014, 11:13
Thanks for this... it sounds great in sport and a better rumble than I expected in normal too but I suspect this is helped by the deletion of the back box!
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: ffrank on 27 May 2014, 18:06
Nice pics and video phazer, captured the sport rumble nicely! Interesting about the brake pad markings, will be nice when someone gets to do a comparison. Perhaps all European brake pads are the 'L' type', so we are getting these under this initially European package.

I really do like the sound in sport, cruising around 20-40 sounds great, and stonking under acceleration (nearly at the 1000 mile mark so looking forward to that!) I normally turn off sport mode once on the motorway/higher speed cruising, as even though the sound diminishes with speed it can be a tiring rumble on the motorway, so the system works brilliantly in that respect.

Something else I am pleased with - the engine is so hushed at low speeds (I'm really amazed at the level of refinement for a diesel) that it's rare I ever hear any 'diesel-ness' in the engine note.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Nedi75 on 10 June 2014, 23:07
Hi all, newbie here. I'm about to order a mk7 GTD having run a BMW 130iLE for the last 4 years, a car I loved greatly but must get rid of as we move to a company car scheme. The sites been a great help in guiding me towards my purchase and I'm now just refining options. I'm going for a manual in red with probably nav, dynaudio and possibly the sound actuator option which may make up a little for the loss of straight 6 noise. One question - ffrank said in this thread that its possible to turn the actuator off when you're not in sport mode. I've only driven DSGs to date (none with the sound actuator) and can anyone tell me can you still switch modes / turn it off with a manual?? Cheers!
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: p3asa on 10 June 2014, 23:12
I got the Sport and Sound pack for mine and didn't really think it would be that great but its amazing. The sound coming off it in Sport mode is fantastic. So much so I've got to switch it to normal mode before I start it up at 7am for fear of annoying the neighbours  :grin: So yes it can be turned off with the press of a button.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Ross Detours on 10 June 2014, 23:57
Agreed! One of my favourite things about the car is the noise the exhaust makes in sport!
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Nedi75 on 11 June 2014, 06:50
I got the Sport and Sound pack for mine and didn't really think it would be that great but its amazing. The sound coming off it in Sport mode is fantastic. So much so I've got to switch it to normal mode before I start it up at 7am for fear of annoying the neighbours  :grin: So yes it can be turned off with the press of a button.

Ah thanks p3asa, that answers that one, good news. Sounds like it's definitely worth a tick!
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: ffrank on 11 June 2014, 09:39
Ha ha, glad you guys are loving it too and I'm not a weirdo for often sticking it on sport and the stereo off :D

If not already, just wait until you are broken in and rev through the gears to 4500  :whistle:
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: p3asa on 11 June 2014, 22:32
I gave my daughter a shot of it and when she came back along the road I couldn't believe the noise it was making. It was growling away  :laugh: Not in an after market exhaust way though.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: phazer on 12 June 2014, 11:20
We've put some miles on ours and love the noise it makes, very very surprised at just how much different it is over the standard exhaust. Doesn't sound bad in normal either so money well spent there.

People do look at you though when driving in traffic through a town, they must be royally confused when they realise it's a diesel!
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: GTD1414 on 06 January 2016, 13:38
Guys with the Sport & Sound Pack,

Just wondering if it gives you an option of the external exhaust noise when you change 'Individual' mode?

for example, so you can have cabin noise set to normal and exhaust set to sport or vice versa.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: ffrank on 06 January 2016, 14:38
I'm not really sure what the cabin soundaktor does in an S&S car. I don't know if it gives the same noise as a non-S&S or if it is already disabled.

When I open the car window I hear the same noise in the cabin outside, which makes me think the soundaktor under the windscreen isn't doing a lot in an S&S car??

Maybe I should go unplug it and find out for us both!

Other than that, I don't know if you can adjust the exhaust volume in a new build - as the soundaktor volume control was not in my 14 build. So will be interesting if anyone here has a new S&S.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: GTD1414 on 06 January 2016, 15:28
I thought the soundaktor volume control (cabin) was only on the R? (+ maybe GTI?)

Mines a 65 plate GTD without S&S pack.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: p3asa on 06 January 2016, 22:11
I agree with ffrank.

The growl I hear from inside the cabin can be heard from outside as well so I'm not sure what is going on with the soundaktor or if it is even on.

The noise actually costs me a lot more in fuel as its really addictive and I just can't help putting my foot down to hear it.

Anyone that hears my car and is into cars always thinks I have put an after market exhaust on and don't believe its diesel.

If went for any other car that had a similar option I think it would be my first option.

Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: bri on 06 January 2016, 23:08
Guys with the Sport & Sound Pack,

Just wondering if it gives you an option of the external exhaust noise when you change 'Individual' mode?

for example, so you can have cabin noise set to normal and exhaust set to sport or vice versa.
in a word. no ,at least not on MIB 1 cars like mine. there is no option to have the external actuator on in individual mode.
sport mode switches the actuator on only, its off in all the other modes.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: ffrank on 06 January 2016, 23:39
in a word. no ,at least not on MIB 1 cars like mine. there is no option to have the external actuator on in individual mode.
sport mode switches the actuator on only, its off in all the other modes.
If you put the engine in Sport in Individual the exhaust actuator is on for me, is that not the case for you? Or am I misunderstanding the question, I'm not sure I know what we are talking about anymore - but I do think I will try unplugging the front one to see if p3asa and my thoughts are correct.

Stevie - yes, it's pretty much permanently in sport for me too  :evil:
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: p3asa on 07 January 2016, 00:17
in a word. no ,at least not on MIB 1 cars like mine. there is no option to have the external actuator on in individual mode.
sport mode switches the actuator on only, its off in all the other modes.
If you put the engine in Sport in Individual the exhaust actuator is on for me, is that not the case for you? Or am I misunderstanding the question, I'm not sure I know what we are talking about anymore


Yeah you can have the external noise on in individual mode (MIB1). In fact that's how mine is set-up as I think the steering is too heavy in sport so I have the individual settings set up the way I like.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Jeni_R_ on 16 September 2017, 12:26
reading through all this and thinking i need a uni degree in setting up the individual mode on this car :(

Is it a case of pour a vodka slippers on link up to youtube and set up your individual mode or is it a quick job  :rolleyes:
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: fredgroves on 17 September 2017, 11:56
Individual mode is a piece of cake Jeni.

No degree in mechanical engineering with a minor in computer science required.

Press the mode button (left of the gearstick, nearest the dash). This brings up a menu on the infotainment screen. Choose individual mode, then choose configure.

In that menu you can set "engine" and "exhaust" noise levels.

Click ok and job done.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Jeni_R_ on 17 September 2017, 18:32
Individual mode is a piece of cake Jeni.

No degree in mechanical engineering with a minor in computer science required.

Press the mode button (left of the gearstick, nearest the dash). This brings up a menu on the infotainment screen. Choose individual mode, then choose configure.

In that menu you can set "engine" and "exhaust" noise levels.

Click ok and job done.

Damn it i was looking forward to the vodka and slippers too  :grin: :evil:

Thanks for this sounds easy enough
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Jonny_D_1987 on 16 October 2017, 19:04
Just reading through all this and im not sure if my GTD has this at all. Its an Aug 2014, got it last November. When i have it in sport mode, i swear theres a growl from inside the cabin. I currently have mine set up the same as p3asa (individual mode with the engine on sport) as I also think the steering is too heavy in Sport.

How could I find out if mine has the s&s pack ? As I said im convinced it sounds much louder and sportier when I have sport mode on?

Cheers
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: mcmaddy on 16 October 2017, 19:07
You'll be hearing the internal speaker.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Jonny_D_1987 on 16 October 2017, 20:14
So if i'm hearing the internal speaker, is there the external speaker too?
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: I wanted a GTi on 16 October 2017, 20:33
So if i'm hearing the internal speaker, is there the external speaker too?

If you have the sport and sound pack you will also have red brake callipers. If they are silver then you will just have the inboard soundaktor.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: dasan on 18 October 2017, 13:49
Looking to order a GTD in the coming weeks, I looked on the online configurator and couldn't see the option for sport and sound pack - is this still offered?
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: SRGTD on 18 October 2017, 15:41
Looking to order a GTD in the coming weeks, I looked on the online configurator and couldn't see the option for sport and sound pack - is this still offered?

No. This seems to have been dropped when the mk7.5 facelift Golf was launched.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: JasonGTD on 02 April 2018, 12:05
I've just ordered a new 18 plate GTD and the sound and sport pack is no longer offered on the MK7.5 an enhanced sound (audio) package is available though but nothing to do with exhaust notes.

I do believe that ABT sell a plug and play sound enhancer which enhances external noise, I'm trying to find out if it's available in the UK. This would suggest that the GTD does have an external exhaust note enhancer anyway or am I wrong?
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: fredgroves on 03 April 2018, 09:27
Technically, its illegal to modify the exhaust noise of a vehicle over and above the factory noise level... (under The Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986)

I'm not sure where a third party fake noise generator would sit, but 2016 also introduced EU wide tighter noise limits for vehicles, which probably suggests that this is why VW removed the Sport and Sound pack from the GTD around the same time?
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: JHWP on 03 April 2018, 14:00
It is a shame if V.W. no longer offer the sport and sound pack on the GTD. The sound of the GTD is one area that is a bit of a let down and the sport and sound pack option was a nice little bump in the right direction to help with that, a relatively cheap option too. My MK7 GTD does not have the sport and sound pack but I wish it did for the external sound actuator, the red calipers I could do without though personally. I wonder why they dropped it? Must be to do with lower noise limits as mentioned. I've driven a MK7 GTD in sport mode with the sport and sound pack and listenend to it while stationary while being reved and at the side of the road while being driven hard by someone else and I wouldn't describe the noise level as being high or obnoxious. A standard MK7 GTI is louder. Could be different noise limits for petrol and diesel cars maybe.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: JasonGTD on 04 April 2018, 12:45
I've had a quick look regarding this too, ABT used to offer a sound box for Golfs this is no longer on offer so that kinda says that the Actuator/Sound Module has been removed from current models and obviously the S&S pack is no longer available.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: fredgroves on 04 April 2018, 14:57
I think its because of "New EU Regulation No. 540/2014 on the sound level of motor vehicles"... which applies to new types after 1st July 2016.... the Mk7.5 will have a new vehicle type approval after that date, so will have to apply.

I suspect its this.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Sootchucker on 10 April 2018, 07:39
TBH, whilst I know the sound is 100% fake on my GTD, the Sport and Sound pack on my car still makes me giggle, as it sounds really throaty in sport mode (I usually have it set to engine sound - sport, in the individual mode).

Weirdly, I'm not expecting my new GTI to sound as good unless I hammer it, but then I suppose there will be other benefits instead.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: mcmaddy on 10 April 2018, 09:00
You'll be surprised Andrew. Once the exhaust has run in you'll here a nicer and than on the Gtd. Will you be turning the soundaktor off? First thing I did when I bought mine.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: p3asa on 17 April 2018, 20:35
Our GTD with S&S pack is way louder and throatier than the GTI & R.
I wish they had that option on them as well.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: mcmaddy on 17 April 2018, 20:44
Yeah but the GTi and r is a natural external sound unlike the s+s gtd which is a fake sound.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: p3asa on 17 April 2018, 21:03
Yeah but the GTi and r is a natural external sound unlike the s+s gtd which is a fake sound.

I'm not saying its not fake but its louder with a deeper growl than the R and GTI.
Apart from VW enthusiasts nobody is going to know.
Personally I'd rather have the GTD sound set up any day.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: mcmaddy on 18 April 2018, 06:43
Hmm not sure about taking a fake gtd exhaust sound over a proper sound any day. Etto though  :smiley:
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: JasonGTD on 18 April 2018, 08:33
Hmm not sure about taking a fake gtd exhaust sound over a proper sound any day. Etto though  :smiley:

True, but I'd rather have the fake sound than it sounding like the oil burner that it is.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: mcmaddy on 18 April 2018, 13:28
 :smiley: :smiley:
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Jeni_R_ on 06 June 2018, 09:41
:smiley: :smiley:

I have to say i love the sound of my GTD S&S setup - makes me grin actually every time my husband takes it out the driveway its only when you are out of the car you really get to hear the growl (i do not get to hear it this way often i hasten to add as he isn't allowed in her  :laugh: )
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: JasonGTD on 06 June 2018, 12:48
I don't hear any change in tone or exhaust noise on mine tbh unless you are on the motorway and giving it the beans, a slight growl can be heard high into the rev range but that's it. Personally I would have liked it to be louder and more prominent at a lower rev range.

I'm pretty sure the '18 model uses no actuator, can anyone else confirm? or any new 2018 GTD owners hear something different to me?

I think the noise that I hear is internal only through the sound system.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Guzzle on 06 June 2018, 13:13
Pre-facelift cars had the option of the Sport and Sound pack that included a sportier exhaust note. Our facelift cars don't have this. You should be able to adjust the soundaktor through the menus in the MIB, but only what you hear inside the car.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Jeni_R_ on 06 June 2018, 13:32
Pre-facelift cars had the option of the Sport and Sound pack that included a sportier exhaust note. Our facelift cars don't have this. You should be able to adjust the soundaktor through the menus in the MIB, but only what you hear inside the car.

Mines is a 16plate and it has a decent growl i deacrivated the sound actuator under the hood because i hated the fake internal sound and much prefer the rear sound i get with the s&s pack infact wen i was deciding on the car i had looked first at a 16plate red gtd the salesman was a knob so decided to just go and see the white one  even though it was 10 to 8 at night and the garage (25miles away at home) was closing at 8, called them to say i was en route and would they wait for me and thankfully they did when i got in it and started it up the exhaust notes had me sold ....
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: JasonGTD on 06 June 2018, 13:41
Pre-facelift cars had the option of the Sport and Sound pack that included a sportier exhaust note. Our facelift cars don't have this. You should be able to adjust the soundaktor through the menus in the MIB, but only what you hear inside the car.

How is this adjusted mate ?
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Guzzle on 06 June 2018, 14:04
Pre-facelift cars had the option of the Sport and Sound pack that included a sportier exhaust note. Our facelift cars don't have this. You should be able to adjust the soundaktor through the menus in the MIB, but only what you hear inside the car.

How is this adjusted mate ?

Through the mode selector button beside the gearstick. You should be able to see the modes come up onscreen. Eco, Sport and Normal are all pre-set but Individual allows you to mix and match. You should then be able to choose Engine sound.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: JasonGTD on 06 June 2018, 14:17
Pre-facelift cars had the option of the Sport and Sound pack that included a sportier exhaust note. Our facelift cars don't have this. You should be able to adjust the soundaktor through the menus in the MIB, but only what you hear inside the car.

How is this adjusted mate ?

Ok yeah got that, that will just sound the same as when it’s in sport mode right? You can’t make it any louder than that ?

Through the mode selector button beside the gearstick. You should be able to see the modes come up onscreen. Eco, Sport and Normal are all pre-set but Individual allows you to mix and match. You should then be able to choose Engine sound.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: fredgroves on 06 June 2018, 14:32
You want to make it LOUDER? Most people want it to stfu.

I use individual mode with engine noise set to eco, which is practically off. Makes my drive more peaceful, I can now hear Motorhead more clearly over the stereo, which is nice.
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: JasonGTD on 06 June 2018, 14:42
You want to make it LOUDER? Most people want it to stfu.

I use individual mode with engine noise set to eco, which is practically off. Makes my drive more peaceful, I can now hear Motorhead more clearly over the stereo, which is nice.

 The Louder the better Fred 😂😂
Title: Re: GTD Sound Actuator
Post by: Jeni_R_ on 06 June 2018, 14:48
You want to make it LOUDER? Most people want it to stfu.

I use individual mode with engine noise set to eco, which is practically off. Makes my drive more peaceful, I can now hear Motorhead more clearly over the stereo, which is nice.

 The Louder the better Fred 😂😂

HERE HERE 👌