Audi Q5: The Multimedia Systems
Audi equips the Q5 with a high-performance audio system as standard. The chorus radio includes a tuner module with 30 station memory locations and a CD player. GALA speed-dependent volume control is also standard. The 80W output is transmitted along four channels to eight speakers.
As with all audio systems in the Audi Q5, the screen and user interface are located in different fields on the chorus radio. The monitor is the standard monochrome 6.5-inch display. The structure of the control panel, located lower down in the center console, echoes the logic of the brand’s compelling MMI principle; it has one central rotary control/pushbutton and large function keys.
The concert and symphony radio systems represent the next level in the product range. Both of them operate in conjunction with a 6.5-inch color monitor. Their control panel is again in the center console; their output of 4 x 20W is distributed to eight speakers along four channels. The concert radio has a single CD drive, and the symphony model incorporates a CD changer. Both sets can also play music files of MP3 and WMA formats. They also include SD card readers for audio files and AUX-in connections for MP3 players.
The two audio systems become even more versatile when combined with the optional lifestyle feature AMI, the Audi Music Interface. This interface is the ideal way to integrate an iPod, the most attractive music storage medium currently on the market. The iPod and its entire range of control functions are fully integrated into the Q5’s electronics architecture via the AMI connection. An iPhone can also be connected up. The on-board display shows its menu structures complete with all lists and information, and it is operated via the radio or the optional multifunction steering wheel.
The interface links with a fourth-generation iPod and upwards. A separate adapter cable can in addition be used to connect up any other audio player with a USB 2.0 interface. The AMI software is modular in design; individually stored protocols handle communication with the players. New driver updates can be installed quickly and easily any time a new device comes onto the market.
Perfect sound: digital radio reception
Another highlight available for the concert and symphony radios and the MMI navigation plus is DAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting). In terms of dynamics, clarity and spatial impression, the digital signals that are broadcast virtually area-wide in Germany, the UK and many other countries are easily superior to the analog standard. DAB tuners use a computer to process the signal, while also processing additional information for radio text.
The audio system is integrated in the navigation system. Its controls are accommodated in the MMI operating terminal on the center tunnel. A fast fiber optic cable links the components behind the user interface, while a special gateway acts as an interface with the remaining vehicle control units.
Buyers of the Audi Q5 can choose between two versions. MMI Basic plus operates with a 6.5-inch screen. A high-speed DVD drive supplies the map data for navigation, and the CD drive also plays MP3 and WMA formats. Voice control is present as standard; as well as processing individually spoken letters, it can understand entire terms.
Audi offers two further exceptional options in the shape of the Audi Music Interface and DAB reception. One of the two tuners receives the chosen station, while the other searches for all other receivable stations in the background. Even relatively weak signals are noise-free because the double tuner can combine the Q5’s two antennas to form a single directional antenna.
New generation: the top navigation system
The top version is MMI Navigation plus. It pioneers an entirely new generation of systems and offers a hi-tech portfolio that breaks new ground. Its special features are an audio and video DVD drive, and a 40 GB hard drive for the navigation system. It doubles up as memory space for MP3 files, and can also hold 2,000 addresses.
A pioneering computer unit is able to handle simultaneous processing of the myriad infotainment functions, all of which require considerable computing power. It combines an 800 MHz processor with a 500 MHz digital signal processor, which for instance enables DVDs to be played in 5.1 Dolby Digital quality. The graphics processor that generates the 3D navigation images also redefines the benchmark with its extremely high detail quality and its fluid dissolve effects.
The top navigation system’s monitor is another innovation. It measures seven inches diagonally and has an extremely high-resolution display of 800 x 480 pixels its picture is rich in contrast and incredibly sharp even in difficult light conditions. To match, there is the optional TV tuner, which can also receive top-quality digital programs (DVB-T).
The new navigation system incorporates another exclusive highlight. The picture mode of bird’s eye view can now be chosen; it shows the landscape in topographical relief, in all its detail, complete with three-dimensional images of landmark buildings. Another new concept has been introduced for the monitor: whenever detail functions of the air conditioning are changed, such as the heated seats, they now no longer fill the entire screen; instead, they simply appear in a pop-up window on the right.
The ultimate audio experience: the sound systems
Audi offers a choice of two other sound systems for its concert and symphony radio systems. 180W of system power and 10 speakers give the Audi sound system well-balanced surround sound. In addition to eight conventional speakers, it incorporates a center speaker in the dashboard and a 260 millimeter (10.24 in) subwoofer at the rear.
But the icing on the cake is the sound system from Bang & Olufsen the epitome of sheer audio pleasure. A wide, subtly differentiated frequency range, sparkling brilliance, highly detailed resolution and precise spatial impression this system by the Danish sound wizards, adopted from the A8 luxury sedan, is of the very highest caliber.
The two brands Audi and Bang & Olufsen have joined forces in pursuit of the same objectives. Ultramodern technologies, clear operation, sophisticated technoid design and uncompromising quality are a question of honor for both partners. Like Audi, Bang & Olufsen possesses a wealth of expertise in the use of aluminum the Danish company uses this material for the speaker covers.
The key element of the Bang & Olufsen sound system is an amplifier with an output rating of 505W. It processes signals according to a specific surround algorithm, which enables the occupant of every seat to enjoy the systems exquisite audio quality. The system analyzes the noise level inside the Audi Q5 by means of a microphone and makes selective adjustments to its output signals in specific frequency ranges. The amplifier controls ten active channels with 14 speakers. There are two three-way systems at the front, and two speakers in each rear door. The choreography is rounded off by a center speaker in the instrument panel, a subwoofer in the spare wheel well and two surround-sound speakers.
Another option in the Audi Q5 that particularly the kids will love is Rear Seat Entertainment. This comprises a monitor with integral DVD drive, and is inserted in special mountings on the back of the front seat. The unit has an integrated power supply.
From the concert/symphony radio systems upward, Audi provides the option of a Bluetooth cell phone preparation that integrates the phone into the radio operating system with the option of voice control. The phone can optionally be stored in a steplessly folding-up bracket in the center armrest. The Apple iPhone can also be integrated.
But the most elegant way to integrate a phone is with the Audi Bluetooth car phone, which is available for the MMI navigation plus. The driver’s cell phone must support the corresponding profile in order to phone using Bluetooth in the ultra-convenient SIM Access mode many of the latest-generation models do this.
The system in the Audi Q5 automatically handles all functions as soon as the ignition key is in place. The cell phone never has to leave the driver’s pocket, and Bluetooth uploads data from the SIM card and memory to the car’s phone. The cell phone then switches itself off, avoiding GSM radiation and saving battery charge.
The Audi Bluetooth car phone uses the vehicle antenna for transmitting external signals, for optimum signal quality. The phone can be operated via voice control, the MMI terminal or the multifunction steering wheel. A digital speech processor suppresses interference, for excellent hands-free quality. Speech output is via the sound system, using the MMI’s volume control. The system can also be supplied with the option of a cordless handset.
The equipment, data and prices stated here refer to the model range offered for sale in Germany. Subject to amendment; errors and omissions excepted.
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