Resonated vs Non-Resonated X3 Front Exhaust: What’s the Difference?
Resonated vs Non-Resonated X3 Front Exhaust Section
What’s the Difference and Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between a resonated and non-resonated front exhaust section for your Can-Am Maverick X3 is mostly about sound and ride comfort. Both options are built for performance and flow, but they deliver a very different tone and volume.
If you’re trying to avoid a setup that’s overly loud, raspy, or fatiguing on long rides, this guide will make the choice simple.
Quick Answer
• Choose a Resonated Front Section if you want the best “deep tone without being obnoxious” setup (recommended for most riders).
• Choose a Non-Resonated Front Section if you want a louder, more raw and aggressive exhaust note.
X3 Front Section Options (Resonated vs Non-Resonated)
Both options are selected on the same product page.
Shop X3 Front Section (Choose Resonated or Non-Resonated):
https://trealperformance.com/collections/brand-treal-performance/products/2017-2022-x3-front-section
Resonated Front Section (Recommended for Most Riders)
A resonated front section is designed to smooth out the exhaust note and reduce harsh frequencies.
Best for:
• Trail riding and long rides
• Customers who hate drone or rasp
• Builds where you want a deep tone that stays controlled
What it sounds like:
• Deeper
• Cleaner
• Quieter overall
• Less sharp compared to non-resonated
Pick Resonated if you want: comfort, deep tone, and a setup that’s aggressive without being too loud.
Choose “Resonated” here:
https://trealperformance.com/collections/brand-treal-performance/products/2017-2022-x3-front-section
Non-Resonated Front Section (Louder and More Aggressive)
A non-resonated front section is a more direct path for sound. It’s built for riders who want maximum volume and presence.
Best for:
• Dunes and wide-open riding areas
• Customers who want the loudest setup
• People who want a raw, aggressive note
What it sounds like:
• Louder
• More raw
• More aggressive and sharp
Pick Non-Resonated if you want: maximum sound and don’t mind extra volume on long rides.
Choose “Non-Resonated” here:
https://trealperformance.com/collections/brand-treal-performance/products/2017-2022-x3-front-section
What About Performance?
In most real-world setups, the difference is primarily sound, not performance. The choice comes down to:
• How loud you want it
• How much you care about cab comfort
• Whether you want the deepest tone possible
Big Turbo / Stock-Location Turbo Note
If you’re running a stock-location big turbo, exhaust setups can get loud quickly. If you want the tone to stay deep and controlled, most customers prefer resonated.
Common Setups We Recommend
Best all-around setup (most popular):
• Resonated Front Section + Quiet Trail Muffler
Deep tone, controlled volume, great for long rides.
Loud setup:
• Non-Resonated Front Section + Sport Exhaust
Maximum presence and aggression.
Shop Sport Exhaust:
https://trealperformance.com/collections/brand-treal-performance/products/treal-performance-2017-2022-can-am-x3-sport-exhaust
Joe’s personal favorite:
Resonated Front Section + Sport Exhaust (deep tone with a little more bite, without getting obnoxious)
Shop Sport Exhaust:
https://trealperformance.com/collections/brand-treal-performance/products/treal-performance-2017-2022-can-am-x3-sport-exhaust
FAQ
Does resonated reduce drone?
Yes. A resonator helps reduce harsh frequencies and can significantly improve ride comfort.
Can I swap between resonated and non-resonated later?
Yes. Our exhaust systems are designed to be modular, so you can change front sections later if you want a different sound level.
What should I run with the Quiet Trail system?
If you want the most trail-friendly setup with a deep tone and no drone:
• Quiet Trail + Resonated Front Section
Shop Quiet Trail Exhaust System:
https://trealperformance.com/collections/brand-treal-performance/products/can-am-maverick-x3-quiet-trail-exhaust-system-2017-2022
Need Help Choosing?
If you’re not sure which front section is right for your build, contact us with:
• Year/model (X3 Turbo, Turbo R, RR, MAX)
• 2-seat or 4-seat
• Turbo setup (stock vs stock-location big turbo)
• Desired sound level (quiet / medium / loud)