2004 got new tires, now hearing front end noises over bumps...

Need help finding root cause of front end noises mostly when traveling straight line over washboard pavement 30-50mph. 2004 Corolla 145k miles. Problem more evident after just replacing 4 tires with all season touring 90k contis due to harder sidewall and tread compound. Previous kumhos rode softer and noise was less noticeable.

NO abnormal tire wear or alignment issues. Car drives great, rides well, and tracks fine. CV joints intact and not clicking. Brakes not in question. I cannot isolate suspension noise to a driver or pass side. Note, I am not complaining about tire tread noise. The noise is of a banging or clinking nature upon strut compression.

Is this indicative of a lower ball joint issue or strut(s), sway bar links etc? How to test? Comments?

First item to check is that the strut upper mounting nuts are tight. I chased a suspension banging noise, in my 2000 Corolla, for like 2 weeks, before checking this simple fix.

The next item I would check are the stabilizer links (also called stabilizer bars).

New tires have a harder sidewall you said it

Thanks carinorder. I finally got around to changing the sway links today as you suggested. I had ruled out ball joints after testing them with front end jacked up. The pass side sway link lower ball and socket was noticably worn with free play after I removed it and had it in my grubby hands. Driver side was not worn, but as a habit I change this stuff in pairs..besides all 4 of the rubber boots were dry rotted so it's a done deal now and the noise is all gone. Thanks again!

No problem, glad it got rid of those banging noises. Nothing drives you nuts like going over bumps and hearing those noises!