The Maserati Ghibli features complementary technologies from the greatest names in audio reproduction with more than 100 years of combined audio experience. Bowers & Wilkins expertise in drive unit design and system tuning is joined by HARMAN’s unrivalled knowledge of audio processing and automotive experience.
HARMAN designs, manufactures and markets a wide range of audio and infotainment solutions for the automotive, consumer and professional markets. They have been developing in-car audio technology since 1953, and in terms of in-car system integration its experience is second to none. HARMAN has several peerless technologies:
- QuantumLogic – Surround sound technology that sets a new benchmark in audio signal processing.
- AuraVox – Automated equalisation process to ensure great sound everywhere in the cabin.
- HARMAN also develops high-quality Class-D amplifier technology, which offers the important combination of great sound and high-energy efficiency.
Bowers & Wilkins is a British Hi-Fi brand ?with almost 50 years experience in audio excellence. They are also a pioneer in the world of audio innovation, and their NautilusTM loudspeaker technology changed the way speakers were made globally. For example, their 800 Series Diamond range is the reference speaker of choice for the highly demanding engineers at Abbey Road Studios, and many other leading recording studios around the world. Meanwhile the Zeppelin Air and P5 headphones set the benchmark for audio performance for iPhone and iPod users.
Bowers & Wilkins dedicates itself to reproducing the true sound of an artist’s performance. Automotive is no different, and with the help of HARMAN’s advanced tuning software, an authentic listening experience can be achieved. Using time delay and equalization the sound engineers compensate for the irregularities,? the resonant frequencies and cancelations to optimize the overall frequency response inside the cabin. Once such a response is found, the golden ears of Bowers & Wilkins undertake many, many hours of subjective listening and final tuning. This phase of fine-tuning is necessary for achieving the true sound experience, it involves listening in every seat to a tailored playlist of material, from bass-heavy tracks to intricate male and female vocal pieces, allowing the engineers to hone in on the breath and nuances of the artists.
Each individual detail of the Bowers & Wilkins premium surround system is designed and acoustically optimized for the Ghibli. Collaborative engineering between Bowers & Wilkins and Maserati starts with the speaker positions, which are developed three years in advance of production. Bowers & Wilkins five decades’ experience in performance-critical materials is represented in the Maserati Ghibli in three key drive unit materials:
