My .02?
You can look to the left aux console and see whether the speedbrakes are open or not.
You can look at fuel flow, nozzle position or rpm and know whether you’re in afterburner.
Situational Awareness is a HUGE part of being a good pilot - never mind being a good fighter pilot. These kinds of things should be second-nature and something you just ‘know.’ (In particular the AB…your hand is on the throttle, is it not?)
I’m not a fighter pilot IRL, but BMS has done an outstanding job with cockpit sounds, IMO.
Carry on.