I assume it would be considering how it works, it re-directs the sound. I know at my ear, I hate brakes without ear pro in!
When combining a brake and suppressor, then it does make a difference (to my ears). I'm fairly new to the suppressor world (Form 1 and commercial), but I've done a lot of research and and a lot of learning. Watching the reactions of farm animals when shooting (shooting at a friends), made me realize that they do not know where the sound is coming from, and the heifers don't really get spooked like they usually do. I guess I'll find out this deer season. I have a chance to hunt a property where they encourage as many does to be shot with a chance at truly trophy bucks (3 bucks killed in the last 5 years at 200"+ gross and a number in the 190's)