The musical experience is undeniably part of the pleasure of driving. Renowned German brand BMW has understood this well and equipped its BMW Series 8 models with a high-end audio installation: the Diamond Surround Sound system from Bowers & Wilkins. This gives the BWM Series 8 cars great acoustic quality with powerful and immersive sound.
Developed by the famous English hi-fi brand Bowers & Wilkins, the Diamond dome tweeter is at the heart of the Series 8 interiors. The brand’s most sophisticated speakers also adopt the same tweeter. It is found in the fourth generation B&W 800 Series Diamond range composed of the B&W 801 D4, B&W 802 D4, B&W 803 D4 and B&W 804 D4 floorstanding speakers, the B&W 805 D4 bookshelf speaker and the B&W HTM81 D4 and B&W HTM82 D4 center speakers. This state-of-the-art technology (3rd generation) can also be found in the famous Abbey Road recording studio in London.
BMW 8 Series Car Audio: composition of the B&W Diamond Surround Sound system
The Bowers & Wilkins audio system was developed in collaboration with engineers at BMW. The goal? To create a sound reproduction tailored to the Series 8 model in every respect. To do this, the number of drivers, their placement, but also the amplification power have been specifically studied for this new generation of cars.
The Bowers & Wilkins hi-fi system delivers a maximum power of 1375 watts. Within this exceptional vehicle is a class D amplifier as well as 16 drivers that are carefully positioned to ensure an excellent musical experience:
- 3 x 1″ Nautilus diamond tweeters
- 4 x 1″ aluminum tweeters
- 7 x 4″ Kevlar midrange drivers
- 2 x 8.5″ Rohacell subwoofers
BMW 8 Series Car Audio: state-of-the-art materials and technologies
Diamond Surround Sound from Bowers & Wilkins is a system designed to reproduce every detail in recordings. Diamond dome tweeters are engineered to minimize distortion while reproducing high frequencies with precision and clarity. Nautilus spiral diffusers complement the tweeters to reduce unwanted sonic resonance from behind the speakers and further limit distortion.
The midrange drivers are designed with aramid fibers for an even better hi-fi quality. These drivers are responsible for reproducing human voices in a natural way. Finally, Rohacell subwoofers have been fitted under the front seats to provide ideal low frequency reproduction. These Rohacell subwoofers use a high-tech material, also implemented in aeronautics and motorsports, to ensure total immersion, whatever the volume.
Quantum Logic surround sound technology ensures a multi-dimensional soundstage and balanced sound. As a driver or passenger, the sound is realistic and very immersive.
BMW 8 Series Car Audio: discreet integration and features
The BMW 8 Series car audio system by B&W sits behind high-quality stainless steel grilles. The Fibonacci pattern of these grilles optimizes acoustic performance while ensuring an elegant and refined design. Lighting effects under the grilles complete the luxurious aesthetics of the BMW 8 Series. The light details of the speakers on the front and rear doors are customizable.
Beyond the aesthetics, the intelligent speaker layout ensures excellent audio performance and a personalized listening experience. Five sound presets are available to ideally suit listening preferences: Studio, Concert, On-Stage, Cinema and Lounge.
A dynamic equalizer (DEC), combined with a measuring microphone, is also integrated to automatically adjust sound levels according to speed, wind, road and engine noise.
This Diamond Surround Sound system from Bowers & Wilkins is available as an option in the BMW Series 8, marketed from €105,900.
