Audi A8: Bang & Olufsen Develops Exclusive Audio System
Danish hi-fi and electronics specialist Bang & Olufsen is developing a pioneering sound system for the flagship Audi A8 which is expected to set new standards even in the luxury segment. Audi will showcase its first vehicle with the “B & O Advanced Sound System” on board at the Frankfurt IAA Motor Show 2005. The system will be available at the end of 2005/beginning of 2006. Innovative designs coupled with advanced technology, plus the highest quality materials and finish: all these factors are equally important to business partners Audi and Bang & Olufsen. The status of the Audi A8 as the sportiest saloon car in the luxury segment is based on its trend-setting styling and technology, representing the highest level of car manufacture in all areas. The aluminium Audi Space Frame body, the quattro permanent all-wheel drive and the Multi Media Interface (MMI) are just three examples of the proverbial Audi “Vorsprung durch Technik”. This technological lead has now been extended into the acoustic dimension by the Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System. This system, which is being developed exclusively for the A8, pays heed to the actual acoustic characteristics of the car interior, such as internal space, shape and materials used. Factors including driving speed, the corresponding wind effect and friction between asphalt and tyres are also taken into account.
A total of fourteen active high-end loudspeakers, B & O’s own Acoustic Lens Technology and over 1,000 watts of amplifier power combine to produce a flawless acoustic experience inside the Audi A8. Designed exclusively for the Audi A8, the loudspeaker grilles are made from precision-machined anodised aluminium, the very same material used in the construction of the sporty luxury saloon’s body. Active speakers are housed behind the covers, each with its own individual amplifier. This allows the sound properties to be adjusted accurately in accordance with the precise function of the speaker within the overall concept. All loudspeakers are housed in closed cabinets, allowing each speaker to be fully controlled irrespective of where it is mounted. This elaborate technology eliminates excessive resonance interference. The sound system is also music to your eyes: its design dovetails beautifully with the sporty and luxurious A8 ambience, adding extra artistic touches to it. When the system is activated, for example, two lens tweeter speakers automatically emerge from the dashboard, whose precision-aligned horizontal emissions offer perfect sound reproduction for all occupants. Here, the fascination of visual technology blends seamlessly with the acoustic brilliance of the new Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System. |
