Ive got an '88 357 and i just took the platform off to put in a new gasket. If i cut out the baffles will i notice a difference in sound. I seached all of the threads and cant find an answer. I appreciate any input. Im new to the site. So out of curiosity. My 357 has 420 with mild tweaks to about 450 hp with mirage 21"props and i am seeing 62-63 it that about right. thinking about getting some 23" and hoping for 65. Thanks

Yes, you'll notice it sounds a little loder and more mellow. So I understand.
There is a thread where members tell how they modified the baffles and the change in sound.

When you change props watch your RPM's. If the engines run at the low end of their operating range with a light load (people, fuel, and gear) then you may wind up running them too low when you load the boat for a day of fun. Overloading the engines is a bad thing.

Yes, You will notice it being a little louder, I had removed the baffles in my 87 272sr1 and it was noticeably louder but not where it was over 90 db's

I did find the thread about the silent thunder mods. I cut them out today so hopfully as soon as the weather breaks i will get to try it out. Thanks for the replies.

Let us know how it sounds.

I had the boat out for the first time this year. It sounded sweet compared to what it use to. A little louder and a lot more throaty. I actually saw 64.6 on gps which is the fastest it ever been. Except on the trailer. Sea ya

I have had a 292, 357 and 419. All of them have run faster with the silent thunder removed and/or the baffle system removed. Also, on my 357 and 292, I cut a 4-6" diameter hole in the bottom of the platform to let more exhaust out/give the engines more relief. Sounds like you have seen more speed already.