A partnership between connected technologies company Harman Kardon and Renault is continuing with the launch of the OEM’s new Austral compact SUV model. A premium sound system from Harman Kardon will feature in the top trim lines of Renault’s latest vehicle and will combine high-performance loudspeakers with advanced technologies to create a special sound experience for interior occupants.
The system benefits from Harman Kardon’s patented shared motor coaxial speaker (midrange and tweeter) located in the dashboard to create a stable soundstage and deliver excellent music reproduction. Completing the system are 12 high-performance speakers, high-power dual voice coil woofers with an external coupled subwoofer for dynamic and low-distortion bass reproduction, and a 485W amplifier which can deliver full frequency range at all volume levels.
To improve audio quality, the Harman Kardon sound system has been tuned to match the Austral’s interior. The Virtual Centre technology processes audio signals from each speaker to ensure an unbiased stereo stage for each of the vehicle’s occupants.
To further increase sound quality, Harman Kardon’s patented QuantumLogic Surround sound algorithm delivers each passenger with an individual sound stage and surrounding content for an immersive audio experience. Integrated surround midrange speakers further enhance the interior audio for front and rear passengers. Additionally, occupants can choose between five sound ambiances to match their listening preference.
Integrated by Harman Kardon, the stainless-steel speaker grilles feature a matte black coating and highlighted pattern elements on the front doors.
“Starting with the partnership in 2021, Harman Kardon and Renault proved a perfect match. Harman Kardon’s acoustics engineers worked closely with the Renault engineers to create a state-of-the-art sound system that seamlessly integrates into the unique ambience of the vehicle,” said Greg Sikora, senior director, global acoustic systems engineering, Harman. “In addition, Renault’s collaboration with Jean-Michel Jarre, French artist and producer, shaped the final sound design direction.”
