The OEM knob is much quieter than the many of the aftermarket knobs (like my fatknob, but either way, it's not a big deal). Gear whine is like V8 growl...I like it. Suprisingly, the Tri Ax handle on my 5.0 is quieter than the 50 handle on the 50 shifter - I actually thought the Tri Ax handle would generate more noise. I really think the knob you use has a lot to do with it though.