With the V8 Quad VAP Valvetronic exhaust on my V6, I always keep the muffler switch turned off. This provides a loud deep resonant tone until you transition through 4000 rpm when the hammers of hell appear as the valves automatically open. Just fine under most circumstances, but would be nice to be able to attenuate the noise (keep the valves closed) as I accelerate past the local gendarmes. The gearing on the MT encourages a natural 5000 rpm shift point even when you’re not pushing it.

 

Jag is nothing at startup compared to a cold start in our Maser Ghibli S. I don't care it gives me a moment of what it is like to have a Ferrari, a very short moment!

 

Just a follow up on what I did to control my active exhaust.
Inspired by gbarker’s hand vacuum pump solution, I tied a hand-operated valve and pump into the vacuum circuit for the exhaust valves that my wife can operate from the trunk before she starts the car. Closing the valve and operating the pump she can make a quiet departure; leaving the valve open bypasses the pump and allows the vacuum system to operate normally.

I figure if she continues to use this new “feature,” then over time I’ll upgrade it to a more automated system. For now though she seems pleased with the setup. As for me, this is one feature that I will NOT be using

Many thanks to everyone for helping me figure this out! It’s not too far a stretch to say that this might have helped to keep this beautiful car from being traded in for something more “civilized” ...