An interference-based exhaust noise attenuation device and method for exhaust flow from an internal combustion engine that generates compressive waves in the exhaust flow. The device includes at least a direct path for the exhaust flow; a looped path for the exhaust flow, with volumes of the direct path and the looped path differing by an amount that results in a staggered rearrangement of the compressive waves in the paths; a splitter that splits the exhaust flow into the direct path and the looped path; and a merger that merges the exhaust flow from the direct path and the looped path. When the exhaust flow from the direct path and the looped path are merged, at least some noise cancellation occurs. In other embodiments, plural direct paths, looped paths, splitters, and/or mergers can be used in various combinations.