Posted on: 
BORLA® Performance Industries showcased a new, patent pending, polyphonic-based exhaust sound technology at SEMA 2017 (October 31-November 3 in Las Vegas). As one of the leading innovators in the aftermarket exhaust industry, BORLA already holds several patents, and its latest patent application could change the way people hear car sounds.
The revolutionary new technology harnesses polyphonic science, providing the ability to produce several different exhaust notes simultaneously. These notes will be selected during development to create a richly textured sound, while also maximizing performance without restricting the flow of exhaust gases. The result allows BORLA to develop exhaust systems that sound and look radically different from anything currently available while continuing to produce the most available power throughout the entire powerband.
The new technology was developed by David Borla, VP of Sales and Marketing at BORLA. He has applied his musical training and decades in the music industry to tune BORLA exhaust systems by enhancing engine notes and eliminating drone. David is currently working on a number of concepts based on combining music theory with engine exhaust sounds, and polyphonic technology presented itself first.
In order to harmonize multiple exhaust notes to create one, perfectly unique sound, David first explored classic pipe organ technology to understand how ancient formulas for pipe length and diameter could create different notes. He then applied his knowledge of music theory to combine specific notes, which are proven to work together in natural harmony. These harmonies are heard every day in various forms of music and BORLA has now applied these polyphonic concepts to exhaust design.
This novel approach will give BORLA the unrivaled ability to bring different frequencies, harmonics, and overtones to the forefront of an engine’s sound signature. The company is confident this will be a game-changer for those of us who treasure the sounds and performance of the automotive lifestyle.
The unlimited combinations of pipe diameter and length mean BORLA can tune the same vehicle to the different tastes of individual enthusiasts: not everybody wants to sound the same, and BORLA has long provided a selection of exhaust notes and sound levels to allow owners to choose a sound that matches their individuality. This new technology gives BORLA another weapon in its sound arsenal.
“For centuries, pipe organs have allowed musicians to play different notes together,” David Borla explained. “The instrument uses variations in pipe diameter and length to make different notes. This concept lends itself perfectly to exhaust design because it will allow us to alter exhaust notes without restricting gas flow. We’ve actually taken historical pipe organ ratios, calculations and formulae to combine pipes so we can create, manipulate and control polyphonic pitch harmony in an exhaust system without restricting performance. By using timbre scaled variations in pipe diameter, length and shape, BORLA continues to raise the bar in performance exhaust technology.”
The new polyphonic exhaust technology will be incorporated into a range of BORLA exhaust systems, which will continue to be made in the USA from aerospace-grade, T-304 stainless steel. This material provides lasting durability against rust and corrosion, allowing the company to offer its industry-leading Million Mile Warranty. For more information, visit Million Mile Warranty.
The systems are designed in the BORLA Research and Development facility in Oxnard, CA, and built in its 320,000 sqft production facility in Johnson City, TN.
