Photo: Dirac
One of the more interesting things to pop up out of CES this year was a partnership between audio brands Denon and Dirac, in showcasing a car audio concept that features immersive spatial audio.
Using a Tesla Model Y, the concept system features a whopping 22-speaker setup, which also includes provision for headrest speakers, height channels, and exciters – the latter of which are devices that convert surfaces such as interior panels and window panes into speakers. The height channels are what allow the setup to support Dolby Atmos. The end result, as both Denon and Dirac claim, is an immersive experience that is on par with Denon’s home audio products.
The entire package also includes audio immersion technologies from Audio Foundry members including a new transducer design from Tymphany and Sonified by Trèves exciters in the headrests and headliners. For some context, Audio Foundry is a technology collaborative specializing in automotive audio and acoustics. Dirac holds membership in the group.
As many car audio enthusiasts can attest, better automotive audio isn’t just about throwing more speakers into your car since a car cabin’s shape and materials can greatly influence sound quality and impact. As such, Dirac’s digital audio solutions also feature correction technologies that reduce unwanted colouration and enable all of the car's speakers to work in harmony with each other.
The big question: How can automotive fanatics get their hands on this? Unfortunately, the Denon car audio concept system describes exactly what it is – a concept. At this point, it is unclear which car maker or model will feature this audio system, and more importantly, whether it will end up featuring in any cars sold in Singapore. That said, as car manufacturers continue focusing on elevating the in-car audio user experience for their customers, we’re confident that this system will see the light of day soon enough.
Source: Dirac
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