I made a mistake and put on KYB's. Now these are STIFF, MUCH stiffer than Bilstein HD's. They offer an objectionable ride, but I cannot tell any difference in road noise. Even these steel rod shocks don't increase road noise. Your shocks, unless they had no soft bushings, mounted metal to metal instead, would have no effect on road noise.

The ride stiffness between HD's and comforts is minimal if even noticable.

Have a great day,