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Motor Authority - blog Tag: Audio

  • 2010 Jaguar XJ To Feature Standard HD Radio

    2010 Jaguar XJ To Feature Standard HD Radio September 23rd, 2009 By Nelson Ireson's avatar Nelson Ireson, Author, September 23rd, 2009 Nelson Ireson 1 Comment

    2010 Jaguar XJ To Feature Standard HD Radio

    It's not even out yet and already the 2010 Jaguar XJ is grabbing headlines all across the spectrum--from its controversial roofline and C-pillar to a possibly illegal dual-view navigation screen, the next XJ is pushing boundaries. Following on that theme, the 2010 XJ will also include a relatively new technology as standard equipment: HD Radio.

    The HD Radio feature will be offered throughout Jaguar's North American territory.  The 2010 XJ is available for order, but won't be hitting dealerships until early next year. If you just can't wait, the XKR and XFR also offer HD Radio as standard equipment and are on sale now.

    Big deal you say?...

    It's not even out yet and already the 2010 Jaguar XJ is grabbing headlines all across the spectrum--from its controversial roofline and C-pillar to a possibly illegal dual-view navigation screen, the next XJ is pushing boundaries. Following on that theme, the 2010 XJ will also include a relatively new technology as standard equipment: HD Radio. The HD Radio feature will be offered throughout Jaguar's North American territory.  The 2010 XJ is available for order, but won't be hitting dealerships until early next year. If you just can't wait, the XKR and XFR also offer HD Radio as standard equipment and are on sale now. Big deal you say? Well, consider that while XM Sirius satellite radio offers a wide range of genre-specific stations, it also requires a monthly subscription. HD Radio provides the highest-quality over-the-air digital talk and music all for free. Combined with the available 1,200-Watt Bowers & Wilkins premium surround system available on the 2010 XJ, the HD Radio channels are sure to sound fantastic. The Bowers & Wilkins sound system first debuted in the XF sedan in 2007. [Jaguar] Further pushing the high-tech boundaries for the XJ sedan is the recently-presented Limo Green plug-in hybrid concept, which you can read more about here. Read More

  • Lotus and Harman partner for sound system that makes quieter V8s, noisier hybrids

    Lotus and Harman partner for sound system that makes quieter V8s, noisier hybrids April 16th, 2009 By Nelson Ireson Nelson Ireson, Author, April 16th, 2009 Nelson Ireson 5 Comments

    Lotus and Harman partner for sound system that makes quieter V8s, noisier hybrids Although the relative silence of hybrid vehicles has made them the choice of TV gangsters for drive-by shootings, the rest of the world is less than enamored with the difficulty involved in hearing one coming - especially when trying to cross the street. Lotus' response to the problem: engineer a system that re-creates the sound of a normal car. Now that system has been licensed for manufacture by the automotive division of Harman International.

    That means brands like Harman Kardon, JBL, Infinity and Mark Levinson - among many others - will have access to the noise cancellation/generation technology. The agreement includes all of... Although the relative silence of hybrid vehicles has made them the choice of TV gangsters for drive-by shootings, the rest of the world is less than enamored with the difficulty involved in hearing one coming - especially when trying to cross the street. Lotus' response to the problem: engineer a system that re-creates the sound of a normal car. Now that system has been licensed for manufacture by the automotive division of Harman International. That means brands like Harman Kardon, JBL, Infinity and Mark Levinson - among many others - will have access to the noise cancellation/generation technology. The agreement includes all of Lotus’ Active Noise Control technologies comprising Road Noise Cancellation, Engine Order Cancellation, and Electronic Sound Synthesis. "The Active Noise Control technologies are part of a steady stream of ground-breaking innovations that Lotus has brought to the automotive industry and we are committed to pursuing further developments in vehicle refinement and environmentally friendly transport solutions," said Mike Kimberley, Chief Executive Officer of Group Lotus plc. The premise of the noise generation systems seems a bit bizarre, but it turns out that many pedestrians rely on their hearing more than their sight to tell them when danger is near. People listening to music players, talking on cell phones and generally not paying attention all are in danger of not noticing the near-silent hybrids until it's too late. So Lotus has developed a system that senses the throttle position and combines that data with the input from a speed sensor and a 'synthesis controller' then sends sound through an amplifier and out a set of 300W speakers in the nose of the car. The result is a realistic motor sound for both pedestrians and passengers alike. Engine sounds were chosen because synthetic beeps and similar sounds were found to be less recognizable as an oncoming car. At the other end of the spectrum is Lotus' Sound Synthesis technology that actively cancels road and engine noise in the cabin, making for a quieter ride all around. This technology can also help tune the sound of the engine from a Porsche-like flat-six to a monstrous American V8. Toyota is developing a similar noise cancellation system, but as yet hasn't announced an engine sound generation system. German supplier Eberspacher has a system installed inside a car's muffler that can both silence and modulate an engine's sound to create the desired output as well. Now all that's needed is for aftermarket tuners to get their hands on the system. Then you can cruise the streets of your city with very life-like Formula 1 or Jaguar V12 sounds coming from your Toyota Prius. That'll certainly keep the pedestrians alert, not to mention confused. And now that Harman has the exclusive rights to distribute the system, expect to hear them on your street soon. Read More

  • Aston Martin and Bang & Olufsen announce details of new BeoSound DB9 sound system

    Aston Martin and Bang & Olufsen announce details of new BeoSound DB9 sound system April 2nd, 2009 ByKenneth Hall Kenneth Hall, Author, April 2nd, 2009 Kenneth Hall 0 Comments

    Aston Martin and Bang & Olufsen announce details of new BeoSound DB9 sound system Since late 2007 Aston Martin and Bang & Olufsen have been cooperating to produce some of the most exotic and technologically advanced automotive sound systems in the world. Now the two companies have come together for another system for Aston Martin's DB9.

    The BeoSound DB9, as the system is called, develops the art of high-performance audio even further. Like all audiophile sound equipment and like all high-end luxury sports cars, image as important as performance. "Aston Martin and Bang & Olufsen have achieved a reputation as leaders in both design and performance through constant innovation," said Dr Ulrich Bez, Aston Martin’s Chief... Since late 2007 Aston Martin and Bang & Olufsen have been cooperating to produce some of the most exotic and technologically advanced automotive sound systems in the world. Now the two companies have come together for another system for Aston Martin's DB9. The BeoSound DB9, as the system is called, develops the art of high-performance audio even further. Like all audiophile sound equipment and like all high-end luxury sports cars, image as important as performance. "Aston Martin and Bang & Olufsen have achieved a reputation as leaders in both design and performance through constant innovation," said Dr Ulrich Bez, Aston Martin’s Chief Executive, "we are proud that BeoSound DB9 continues a strong tradition of technology, design and artistry." Some of the system's key statistics include the proprietary ICEpower system that retains high levels of fidelity even at high output power and volumes while minimizing the size of the device. The now-trademark motorized tweeters pop up out of the dash to actuate Bang & Olufsen's patented Acoustic Lens Technology, which is intended to enhance the spatial perception of sound - adding depth and realism. A total of 11 other speakers in addition to the two tweeters, one a 200mm subwoofer, and Bang & Olufsen's DSP unit comprise the rest of the sound system. The DSP unit enables the system to adapt to road conditions and enhance the sound accordingly. The BeoSound DB9 in the Volante model even adapts to whether the top is up or down. As usual, the price of entry for the completely unique and custom-engineered sound system is the same as that of an Aston Martin DB9. And though it might seem an odd thing to spend so much time on given the Aston's own phenomenal V12 soundtrack, it's sure to be appreciated by those lucky enough to own one. The previous joint venture between Aston Martin and Bang & Olufsen was the BeoSound DBS, built for Aston's car of the same name.Bang & Olufsen BeoSound DB9 audio system for the Aston Martin DB9 Read More

  • Audi details third-gen MMI information and entertainment system for U.S.

    Audi details third-gen MMI information and entertainment system for U.S. January 29th, 2009 ByAlex Kaufmann Alex Kaufmann, Author, January 29th, 2009 Alex Kaufmann 0 Comments

    Audi details third-gen MMI information and entertainment system for U.S. Advanced multimedia systems are becoming increasingly central to daily life with modern cars. Especially at the luxury end of the segment, where BMW's iDrive, Mercedes-Benz's COMAND, Lexus's new haptic system with Enform and Audi's MMI all compete for top honors. The latest iteration of Audi's MMI system is now headed to the U.S., and it will make its retail debut in the new Q5.

    Like Lexus's haptic interface system and BMW's iDrive, Audi's Generation 3 MMI uses a joystick-like remote input device. The idea seems to be that by placing the control mechanism within easy reach of the driver, the screen itself can be moved closer to the line of... Advanced multimedia systems are becoming increasingly central to daily life with modern cars. Especially at the luxury end of the segment, where BMW's iDrive, Mercedes-Benz's COMAND, Lexus's new haptic system with Enform and Audi's MMI all compete for top honors. The latest iteration of Audi's MMI system is now headed to the U.S., and it will make its retail debut in the new Q5. Like Lexus's haptic interface system and BMW's iDrive, Audi's Generation 3 MMI uses a joystick-like remote input device. The idea seems to be that by placing the control mechanism within easy reach of the driver, the screen itself can be moved closer to the line of sight out the window, improving both the interface and safety of operation. Other new features in the third-gen MMI system include real time traffic information, new 3D map displays, giving perspective to the images on the navigation screen, helping drivers orient their current location and understand what's ahead. Voice input for destinations can be done with whole words rather than spelling out letters as in previous MMI installations, with 'a number of languages' supported. The music and entertainment system is upgraded as well, allowing playback of DVDs with Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound, MP3, WMA and AAC format CDs and SD cards, plus Audi's Music Interface application for integrating Apple's iPod into the Audi MMI display. The display itself gets upgraded as well, the 7in TFT unit displaying 800x480 pixels with bright backlighting and strong contrast to help keep from washing out in bright sunlight. Up to 10gb of storage space on the internal 40gb hard drive can be used for music storage. All of the computing is handled by a pair of processors - one 800MHz unit for general processing and a 500MHz digital signal processor. This duo enables all of the MMI systems functionality to operate simultaneously - meaning one could, in theory at least, make a call, use voice input for the navigation system and play music all at once. Finally, a 3D graphics processor from nVidia enables the true 3D display of the nav system and accelerates it to ensure rapid, smooth performance. The all-new Q5 will be coming to the U.S. in March, with the Generation 3 MMI system as an optional add-on. Pricing and further details will likely come with the car's retail debut.Audi Q5Audi Generation 3 MMI Read More

  • Up to 50% of 2009-model U.S. vehicles will feature satellite radio

    Up to 50% of 2009-model U.S. vehicles will feature satellite radio October 21st, 2008 By Nelson Ireson Nelson Ireson, Author, October 21st, 2008 Nelson Ireson 0 Comments

    Up to 50% of 2009-model U.S. vehicles will feature satellite radio The proliferation of the technology in the automobile is reaching a critical point as 2010 approaches. Just a couple weeks ago it was revealed that 58% of all 2009 model year cars will have a media player or iPod interface. Today it's satellite radio that has broken through the 50% barrier.

    Satellite radio hasn't always been popular; in fact just two years ago, only 15% of new models carried the feature. Doubling that figure to 30% in 2008 and almost doubling again to over 50% for 2009 models, according to Automotive News, satellite radio is on a charge.

    The focus of most of the rapidly growing technology inside cars is related directly... The proliferation of the technology in the automobile is reaching a critical point as 2010 approaches. Just a couple weeks ago it was revealed that 58% of all 2009 model year cars will have a media player or iPod interface. Today it's satellite radio that has broken through the 50% barrier. Satellite radio hasn't always been popular; in fact just two years ago, only 15% of new models carried the feature. Doubling that figure to 30% in 2008 and almost doubling again to over 50% for 2009 models, according to Automotive News, satellite radio is on a charge. The focus of most of the rapidly growing technology inside cars is related directly to music and phone connectivity. Keeping in touch with friends and family while keeping abreast of the latest and hottest trends in music are apparently driving forces in the new-car buying public. How the impending merger of XM and Sirius, the two satellite radio companies in North America, will affect this expansion is not clear, but it will take time. Developing joint technology - hardware that can interoperate with both satellite systems - and getting it into automobiles could take up to 15 years because of the logistics of both the hardware itself and the car companies. Read More

  • Lincoln MKS first to market with THX II Certified stereo

    Lincoln MKS first to market with THX II Certified stereo October 1st, 2008 By Nelson Ireson Nelson Ireson, Author, October 1st, 2008 Nelson Ireson 0 Comments

    Lincoln MKS first to market with THX II Certified stereo Audio and video entertainment are becoming more and more central to the way we use our cars, and as such features gain importance, the race to build the best stereo or DVD system becomes just as important as fuel efficiency, horsepower and handling to many buyers. Lincoln's inclusion of a THX II Certified 5.1 Surround sound speaker system in the 2009 MKS is an escalation of that competition that one must hear to believe.

    The unbranded THX audio system was one of the highlights of our review of the MKS. Its ability to bring out depth and richness from a simple stereo signal is impressive, but it's the DVD audio capability that really lets... Audio and video entertainment are becoming more and more central to the way we use our cars, and as such features gain importance, the race to build the best stereo or DVD system becomes just as important as fuel efficiency, horsepower and handling to many buyers. Lincoln's inclusion of a THX II Certified 5.1 Surround sound speaker system in the 2009 MKS is an escalation of that competition that one must hear to believe. The unbranded THX audio system was one of the highlights of our review of the MKS. Its ability to bring out depth and richness from a simple stereo signal is impressive, but it's the DVD audio capability that really lets the system shine. With a full 5.1 channels of audio piped through the 600W, 16-speaker system, it's more of an experience than a stereo. That may sound like high praise, but hearing sound quality normally reserved for well-outfitted dens and home theaters in a modestly priced luxury car is impressive, and Lincoln is justifiably proud. So is THX car audio team member Todd Rockwell, who said, "For the price point, the THX II Certified 5.1 system on the Lincoln MKS is one of the best on the market in terms of quality, capabilities and value." The 5.1 system design features THX Slot Speaker technology in the dashboard, which allows the sound to issue from a very small aperture yet create a wide 'sound image' throughout the cabin. In addition to the strong sound quality, the system includes a hard drive jukebox, allowing customers to store up to 2,400 of their favorite music tracks, all of which can be accessed hands-free using Ford's voice-activated navigation system. Other carmakers, including Aston Martin, Bentley and Mercedes-Benz's AMG, have taken the alternate route of associating with established car audio brands, such as Bang & Olufsen or Naim. Ford's decision to secure a sound standard rather than a brand name could be part of the reason it is able to provide such strong performance for a more affordable price.Review: 2009 Lincoln MKS AWD Read More

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