Last year we kicked off our second annual RCN Drivers’ Choice Awards program to recognize the top products and services in the world of replicas, unique classics and homebuilt cars. We posted 20 categories ranging from tools, tires and brakes, all the way up to complete turnkey vehicles and builder packages, and you voted for your favorites. Unfortunately we were not able to hand out our Drivers’ Choice Awards in person at the SEMA Show with its 2020 cancellation, but we look forward to recognizing our winners over the coming weeks here at rcnmag.com.

There’s a whole lot more to prepping a homebuilt car for street use than just getting it up and running. Just because it starts, turns and stops, doesn’t mean it will be safe or enjoyable on the street, and one commonly overlooked facet of the build process is heat and noise control. Insulating foot boxes, roof panels, floors and tight exhaust clearances will make your ride feel a lot more civilized on public roads, and less fatiguing during spirited driving as well. We had a total of five heat and noise insulation companies nominated in our 2020 Drivers’ Choice Awards and are pleased to announce that Dynamat received the gold medal.

Like many influential products in this industry, Dynamat started out as a car builder’s solution to a problem at home in his own garage, before it became the successful product it is today. Founder Scott Whitaker was building a custom car, but he felt that even with all the updates and modification he made, the car still felt like an old car. Scott’s solution for an automotive-grade soundproofing material solved that problem, and today, controlling unwanted heat and noise is an essential part of any build.

Scott founded Dynamat in Hamilton, Ohio, in 1989, and the company has been innovating sound and thermal insulation products for over 30 years. Current product offerings include specialized insulation materials for roofs, hoods, floors and more, in addition to car audio system enclosures, installation gear and insulation products for home audio systems. Beyond the automotive and home entertainment industries, Dynamat also offers products for marine and RV use, as well as commercial and industrial applications.

Congratulations to Dynamat, along with Design Engineering Inc. and COOL IT Thermo-Tec, who took silver and bronze medals respectively.

Thanks to all who voted, along with all the manufacturers nominated in this category!

*This article has been edited to correct information on Dynamat, Inc.*