In the pursuit of the ultimate sensory experience, Bowers & Wilkins' and Aston Martin's engineering teams worked together to develop an optional surround sound system upgrade. Taking technologies and innovations found in Bowers & Wilkins' loudspeakers and audio products, the bespoke system has been acoustically engineered to deliver a truly spectacular listening experience.
High-performance proprietary technologies, such as Aluminum Double Dome tweeters and Continuum midrange drive units, give this 15-speaker, double amplified 1,170W surround sound system a balanced and accurate sound. Meanwhile, dedicated 3D headline speakers and a powerful subwoofer ensure the most enthralling sound experience possible in an Aston Martin.
"Sensorially supercharged," the immersive quality of the high-end performance audio system is achieved by perfect location, direction and symmetry of the speaker positions, which have been meticulously built deep into the fabric of the DB12; something that has been achieved by close co-operation between Aston Martin and Bowers & Wilkins' engineers.
Launched at a stunning premiere during the Cannes International Film Festival on 24 May 2023, DB12's core values of high-performance and ultra-luxury are spearheading Aston Martin’s next generation of sportscars. As such it heralds a new era. One which will see all Aston Martin models characterized by performance, seamless integration of advanced technologies, style and exemplary craftsmanship for which the brand has been renowned.
Fittingly, throughout the development process of the audio system between Aston Martin and Bowers & Wilkins, it was clear from the outset that the two iconic British brands encapsulate these characteristics, sharing the same brand values, with a focus on technical innovation and a passion for high performance. "Celebrating this shared vision, the launch of DB12 appropriately ushers in the start of the official partnership which will yield further collaborations, striving for heightened levels of performance," the announcement states.
The Bowers & Wilkins Surround Sound System, offered as an option for the first time ever in an Aston Martin, is centered around a configuration of 15 loudspeakers, a 14-channel amplifier and state-of-the-art sound processing technology.
Located in the dashboard, doors and behind the B-pillar, Bowers & Wilkins Nautilus Aluminum Double Dome tweeters are derived from the iconic Bowers & Wilkins Nautilus loudspeaker, with spiraling diffusion channels that soak up reflected sound from the rear of each tweeter drive unit. Resonances are reduced to a minimum for an incredibly detailed and engaging listening experience, where you hear only the audio that is part of the performance.
Positioned in close proximity to the tweeters, five 100mm Continuum midrange speakers represent the result of eight years' development, delivering a great step forward in midrange speaker performance. The authenticity and precision in the reproduction of voices and instruments creates a truly realistic sound throughout the DB12, for all occupants. Based on the principle of control and optimized flexibility, the woven composite construction is carefully damped to absorb unwanted resonance resulting in a cleaner midrange sound with lower unwanted noise, resulting in a more open, neutral performance.
Tweeter-on-Top technology sees the tweeter separated from the rest of the cabinet to reduce coloration. Within a car, it also minimizes acoustic reflection from the windscreen, instead of directing sound directly at the occupants. The result is improved clarity of the system, resulting in a sound that is more detailed, clear and natural. Three mounted tweeters sit proudly on the dashboard of the DB12 completing the highly stylized interior.
The new partnership promises to deliver a heightened level of performance, technology and driver involvement by extending the Aston Martin experience to car audio and music – a key component of the thrill of driving.
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