My n/a 2001 S2000 is reading knock at 2900-3400rpms under light acceleration (65-80kpa, 20%-25%tps). I'm assuming this is false knock and I just need to decrease the knock sensitivity, but I'm trying real hard not to be stupid. Is this just engine noise/exhaust noise? I know this also falls directly in the worst drone range.

Spark map is below (red box is the area it's reading knock). Tuned on Megasquirt, 93 octane, intake/headerback, otherwise stock.

 

This load/rpm zone seems to be a area prone to knock, I have tuned with det cans on my itb f20 and now f22 engine using alpha N and hear knock around 2500-3000rpm 50-80% load and have to back off the timing. Interestingly at 100% load at this rpm the engine will take more timing (I assume due to air speed and better cylinder filling)

 

Thank you so much for the response, not trying to buy a new engine anytime soon.. I'll pull some timing and see if it clears up the knock.