Dynamat is a well-known name in the world of car sound deadeners. We decided to compare their most popular Xtreme version with Second Skin’s Damplifier to see which one performs better.
We’ll be comparing them in a number of categories including material, effectiveness, installation, size, and price as well as other differences between them. By the end of the review, we’ll know which one beats the other. Let the Dynamat vs Second Skin battle begin!
We recommend you read the best automotive soundproofing materials 2024 article as well.
Dynamat vs Second Skin: Quick Comparison
WINNER |
Dynamat
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CHEAPER OPTION |
Second Skin
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Differences between Dynamat and Second Skin
In today’s review, we’ll be comparing Dynamat Xtreme with Second Skin’s Premium Damplifier. The reason we chose Dynamat Xtreme for our review is that it is by far the most popular Dynamat sound deadener around.
And the reason for its popularity is the quality difference that exists between Xtreme and the Original.
Weighing less and being four times more effective than the Dynamat Original, Dynamat extreme is the go-to option if you want to install a sound deadener the roof of your car, trunk lids, rear-decks, doors, trunk floors, or the under-hood.
What Are They Made Of?
Dynamat Xtreme is made of vector chemistry butyl rubber, which is attached to a layer of aluminum alloy skin. Second Skin, on the other hand, is also made of a butyl compound that has improved elastomeric properties.
It’s common knowledge that the best mats contain a layer of aluminum which is the case in both of the mats we are reviewing here. When it comes to the material, there isn’t any significant difference between the two.
Effectiveness
This is a tricky one. Dynamat Xtreme is certainly a popular choice among users which wouldn’t be possible if it wasn’t effective. However, Second Skin uses some of the best sound deadening materials in its mats which cannot be ignored.
It is difficult to say one is better than the other. However, note that the Dynamat Xtreme is lightweight as well as thicker which means it will end up showing a better performance than Second Skin.
Ease of Installation
Both of the sound deadeners are easy to install. However, Dynamat doesn’t come with installation instructions in the packaging for some reason.
Second Skin has mentioned the installation instructions in some detail which might be overwhelming for first-time users. However, as long as you are good at working around with a scissor, you should be able to install both of these with ease.
Just make sure you take care of the sharp edges and don’t peel the back covering before cutting or your scissor will keep sticking to it while cutting.
Weight and Dimensions
Each Dynamat sheet has an area of 4 sq ft and weights 0.42 lbs per sq ft. On the other hand, Second Skin’s sheets are smaller at an area of 2 sq ft weighing 0.35 lbs per sq ft.
Second Skin might look like the lightweight option here but we can’t decide that without taking into account the thickness of these sheets.
It is also worth noting that Second Skin’s sheets are smaller, which means they are ideal for smaller cars.
The small cuttings and leftovers from a larger sheet are more likely to go to waste whereas the smaller sheets will help you fit them in the most optimal and cost-effective way, without much waste.
Thickness
The thickness of a Dynamat sheet is 1.7mm, 70% higher than the 1mm thick Second Skin sheets.
Considering the fact that Dynamat is 70% thicker and still has a negligible weight difference, one can safely say Dynamat Xtreme is the lightweight option here. So don’t let the higher weight per square foot fool you.
Price
The Dynamat Xtreme comes only in a pack of 9 and therefore has a fixed price. Second Skin is more expensive if you are buying small quantities.
However, if you are buying 20 square feet or more of the sound deadener, you get it cheaper per square foot compared to Dynamat. The price difference, however, isn’t too much.
Dynamat Review
The Dynamat Xtreme comes in a single packaging of 9 sheets.
The price is fixed for the 9 sheets, so if you want to buy more, you won’t get any discount.
The pricing is reasonable, though at the higher end considering it is one of the best sound deadeners around.
The installation process is pretty straightforward. All you have to do is cut the mat in the desired shape, peel off the covering to reveal the self-adhesive, and paste it on the surface.
A heat gun does help, but isn’t necessary as the mats are designed to stick conveniently without one.
It uses its already well-known Dynamat Superlite material allowing it to be both lightweight and effective in comparison to other sound deadeners in the market.
Dynamat Xtreme has a -65F to 300F temperature rating, making it suitable for the temperature ranges your car is likely to experience.
Since its composition also includes a layer of aluminum, it is ideal not just for the cabin but also for very hot areas like under the hood. Read also: SoundSkins Vs Dynamat and Dynamat vs Lizard Skin: Differences Reviewed
It is without a doubt an all-rounder, offering quality in all departments that is not easily matched.
Second Skin Review
The Damplifier by Second Skin is a high-quality sound deadener that comes at a great price.
It is on the thinner side with 1mm thick mats but the butyl compound and the aluminum lining enable it to offer a good enough sound dampening effect.
Since it is available in small-sized mats, one can also easily layer it on top of each other without wasting a lot of the material.
It is quite easy to install and doesn’t leave a mess thanks to its self-adhesive. Installation should be an easy job as long as you are careful with it.
The material doesn’t just reduce the noise levels but also acts as a thermal insulator, increasing the overall comfort level of your car in all weather conditions.
It is available in sets of 5, 10, 20, or 40 sheets. The more you buy, the less you have to pay per square foot. It is a great product that offers way more value than its price tag.
Conclusion
Dynamat vs Second Skin Damplifier: And the winner is…
Dynamat and Second Skin both offer great deadening mats that help to keep the traffic and other unwanted sounds out. You certainly cannot go wrong buying any one of them.
However, based on the fact that Dynamat is lightweight, thicker, popular, and a well-known name, we would say Dynamat Xtreme is the winner out of these two. However, if you’re on a tight budget, Second Skin might be a better option for you.
Dave Pearson is a Canadian musician, sound editor, and audiophile. He is also the founder and owner of the website SoundProofGeek. On SoundProofGeek, Pearson offers advice and resources on audio equipment, including how to assess and improve audio quality, how to troubleshoot and repair audio equipment, and how to improve the music listening experience.
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