March 1, 2005
Audi A8:
Bang & Olufsen Develops Exclusive Audio System
Source: Audi AG
Danish hi-fi and electronics specialist Bang & Olufsen
has developed a state-of-the-art 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; 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 limousine 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".
Progress that the Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound System has
now taken to an acoustic dimension. The system, which is
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 tyre are also taken into account.
A perfect sound quality is achieved in the A8 with a total
of fourteen active high-end loudspeakers, B&O Acoustic Lens
Technology and more than 1,000 Watts of amplifier power.
Exclusively designed for the Audi A8, the loudspeaker
cabinets are made from carefully processed anodised
aluminium, the very same material used in the construction
of the sporty luxury saloon's body.
Active speakers, each with its own individual amplifier, are
housed within the cabinets. This means that the sound
properties can be adjusted accurately in accordance with the
precise function of the speakers within the overall concept.
All loudspeakers are housed in closed cabinets, allowing
each speaker to be controlled irrespective of where it is
mounted. This elaborate technology eliminates particularly
disturbing resonances.
The sound system is also music to your eyes: its design
dovetails beautifully with the sporty and luxurious A8
ambience, providing it with a highly artistic feel. When the
system is activated, two lens speakers automatically emerge
from the dashboard, giving perfect sound to every seat in
the car with precisely aligned horizontal emissions. Here,
the fascination of visual technology is combined with the
acoustic brilliance of the new Bang & Olufsen Advanced Sound
System.
