Engine Sound Simulator
A web-based engine sound simulator that lets users “rev” virtual engines and shift gears is delighting many for its realism and play value, with some even imagining it embedded in kids’ toys or driving games. Commenters compare its sample-based approach to fully physical engine simulations, trade tips on related audio tools, and report various UX and browser quirks. The project also prompts a broader look at artificial vehicle sounds—from ICE backfires to EV warning noises—and how they affect safety, noise pollution, and the future character of cars.
Overall reception
- Many commenters find the engine sound simulator surprisingly fun and satisfying, calling it “addictive” and “delightful.”
- Some say it closely resembles real cars they’ve owned, especially under certain RPM and gearing setups.
- Several mention kids enjoying it, with at least one 4‑year‑old reportedly captivated.
Interface & simulation behavior
- Multiple reports of UI bugs: broken tapping on controls, gear field text being erased, parameters blowing up to infinity/NaN (notably when tweaking “Theta”), and needing to reload after switching sounds.
- Safari issues are noted; a partial workaround is reloading, selecting a sound, and clicking in the window.
- Mobile usability is poor; users request on‑screen buttons and/or gyroscope control.
- Some complain braking is unrealistically strong versus acceleration, and that deceleration sounds (including overrun/backfires) are underrepresented.
- Users enjoy “money shift” behavior (high‑RPM downshift) but note the physics are exaggerated into “comically high” RPM.
Creative uses and extensions
- Ideas: embedding this in a Raspberry Pi for kids’ steering‑wheel toys or bicycles, adding malfunctions/fault sounds, simulating gas turbines, drones, airplane propellers, and even “PsyOps” misdirection audio.
- People are curious how to contribute new engine models and what the recording/processing pipeline is.
Comparisons to other engine sound projects
- Thread notes that this tool uses soundbanks rather than full physical engine simulation.
- Several references to more advanced or alternative simulators, games, and synth‑based approaches, often praised as more realistic or technically ambitious.
EV and artificial vehicle sounds debate
- Large subthread on EV low‑speed warning sounds: some love the futuristic “spaceship/UFO” character; others find many designs harsh, dissonant, or “nightmarish.”
- Specific manufacturer examples divide opinion: some tones are admired, others called obnoxiously loud, especially in reverse or in dense cities.
- There’s tension between safety for pedestrians (especially when cars are very quiet) and the desire to reduce urban noise pollution.
Noise, regulation, and social norms
- Strong criticism of intentionally loud exhausts and artificial pops/bangs; some want stricter enforcement of noise ordinances.
- Others note many modern performance cars produce these sounds stock, complicating enforcement.
- Debate over synthetic engine/exhaust sound systems: some see them as antisocial “fake loudness,” others as a controllable way to add character.
- Broader disagreement about the future: quiet EV cities vs. preserving emotional, even simulated, engine sound experiences.