Harman International Selected as Exclusive Audio Systems Supplier for BMW 5 Series in China
Harman, who already provides audio components the likes of Mercedes, is now the exclusive provider for audio gear for the BMW 5 series (in the Chinese market). This probably doesn’t mean much to me or you, but it gives me a good excuse to ogle over the 5 series for a bit.
I wonder if we can get a review sample . . . hmmm. Anyway, the press release follows.
STAMFORD, Conn. - Harman International Industries, Inc. (NYSE:HAR) said today it has been selected as the exclusive supplier of professional audio systems for the new extended wheel base version of the BMW 5 Series. The high-end model will be built and sold exclusively in the Chinese market and will make its debut in June 2010. In addition to the professional audio system, Harman will also provide the Universal Connectivity Interface for the car and rear seat entertainment systems.
Harman will provide two levels of audio systems for the extended BMW 5 Series; a base HiFi system as well as a highly contented TopHiFi system through its automotive division, Harman Becker Automotive Systems. Harman will be producing all sound system components at its new production facility in Suzhou, China.
“Our new world-class production base in Suzhou meets the local supply requirements of premium manufacturers such as BMW and we will continue to increase our footprint in the emerging markets in order to be close to our customers’ own production centers,” said Dinesh C. Paliwal, Harman’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “We are delighted to join BMW in its expansion of activities to China and to supply the leading-edge sound, connectivity and entertainment systems for this important new vehicle platform.”
The premium TopHiFi surround sound system is specially tuned to the luxurious extended version of the BMW 5 Series, offering brilliant, enveloping sound reproduction. The audio processing technology delivers an authentic surround sound experience from 5.1 multi-channel recordings for all passengers.
The wide sound stage is achieved with a total of 16 high-performance loudspeakers which are an integral part of the system architecture. All components have been individually tuned to the larger interior of the new luxury limousine. The tweeters and midrange speakers are optimally positioned in the A-pillars, the front and rear side doors and in the rear shelf, supported by two powerful subwoofers. The innovative central bass subwoofer design allows placement underneath the driver and passenger seats and enables a naturally enveloping bass experience. The seven 100 mm midrange speakers are marked by their alumaprene membranes, reproducing a sound profile that stays true to the original performance. The highly efficient 10-channel class-D amplifier offers 560 watts of dynamic power, guaranteeing a thrilling, rich sound at all times.
Harman Becker is the automotive division of Harman International Industries, Incorporated (www.harman.com) which designs, manufactures and markets a wide range of audio and infotainment products for the automotive, consumer and professional markets. Harman International maintains a strong presence in the Americas, Europe and Asia, and employ more than 11,000 people worldwide. The Harman International family of brands includes AKG®, Audioaccess®, Becker®, BSS®, Crown®, dbx®, DigiTech®, Harman Kardon®, Infinity®, JBL®, Lexicon®, Mark Levinson®, Revel®, QNX®, Soundcraft® and Studer®. Harman International’s stock is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “NYSE: HAR.”
AKG, Audioaccess, Becker, BSS, Crown, dbx, DigiTech, Harman Kardon, Infinity, JBL, Lexicon, Mark Levinson, Revel, QNX, Soundcraft and Studer are trademarks of Harman International Industries, Incorporated, registered in the United States and/or other countries.
BMW is a registered trademark of BMW AG.
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