tuningblog.eu Your magazine about tuning the car
Recently updated on September 21, 2023 at 08:47 am
[Display]
Active sound systems are the latest craze in the car and tuning scene. The small but technically mature orchestras conjure up a roaring V8 sound from any car. But how do they work sound booster in detail - what sound options are there and how are active sound systems installed? In the article we clarify the most important details.
Active sound systems can be retrofitted to almost all vehicles
Some car models - such as the 313 hp Audi A6 3.0 TDI - already have an active sound system ex works. But the new VW Golf GTD is also equipped with an active sound system as standard. It is no coincidence that these vehicles are self-igniting: acoustic improvements in the area of the exhaust system are difficult to implement in diesel engines. While the replacement of a muffler or the installation of a complete sports exhaust system can already produce a rich sound for petrol engines, this is generally not possible for a diesel engine - for technical reasons. In this respect, the Retrofitting an active sound system especially with diesel engines. But even quiet petrol engines - such as turbocharged four-cylinder and three-cylinder petrol engines - can be combined with an active sound system.
Source and further information about Active Sound: www.active-sound.de
Artificial noise generation instead of sports exhaust system
In principle, active sound systems are loudspeakers that are installed in the area of the exhaust system. Here the speakers “modulate” - often also as a sound booster or actuators called - a very realistic exhaust noise. Because it is only an artificial noise generation, all possible exhaust noise can be generated from the V8 to the V12 sound. Depending on the system selected, the timbre can also be configured in any number of stages - depending on whether you want to hear a babbling figure of eight or twelve. The sound is of course not played arbitrarily, but adapted to the respective driving situation. The active sound system accesses the corresponding data for sound modulation CAN BUS data of the vehicle. This allows a tremendously realistic exhaust sound to be modulated based on the respective engine speed.
Installation and assembly
An active sound system is usually made up of the so-called actuator, control units as well as assembly and accessory material. Depending on the provider, the control units for picking up the speed signal are integrated into the vehicle's bus system either by means of plug connections or by soldering. Otherwise the system only needs a power supply. Modifications to the engine control unit are not necessary - an active sound system works completely independently of the engine control and has no direct effects on the vehicle's drive components. The Active Sound System can be installed anywhere below the vehicle, in the trunk of the vehicle or directly on the exhaust system. Suppliers such as the tuner insidePerformance, which specializes in BMW models, have chosen a Assembly in the trunk of the car specialized to avoid the construction of an elaborate bracket below the vehicle. Depending on the vehicle model, the sound coming from the actuator is directed through a standard or adapted hole in the trunk floor or a hole in the spare wheel well under the vehicle. There are no acoustic differences, only the installation is easier with this mounting solution and can be carried out with a little manual skill even without knowledge of motor vehicles. In addition, this type of installation does not require approval from test authorities such as TÜV and Dekra, since the sound body - comparable to a music bass box - is located in the interior of the vehicle. Other would be expected when mounting on the exhaust system or mounting below the vehicle.
Configuration and setting options
When choosing the active sound system, not only sound and installation solution are important, but also Configuration and setting options, Many active sound systems are controlled with a wired remote control or an external switch. The configuration options are usually limited to simple switching on and off. Other active sound systems can be set and adjusted with standard steering wheel buttons (e.g. double assignment of the ESP switch), so that the installation of a special switch in the interior is not necessary. The trend is also towards active sound systems that can be configured using a smartphone app, which can be connected to a smartphone either via a Bluetooth or WiFi connection and can be configured in a variety of ways within one app. In the app, the system can not only be activated or completely deactivated, but also in terms of Volume, timbre, idle noise etc. can be adjusted according to your wishes. Here is an FAQ about Active Sound.
Conclusion
When retrofitting an active sound system, one should not only pay attention to the price, but also to the specific installation solution, the scope of delivery and, last but not least, the configuration and setting options. The systems available on the market differ considerably from provider to provider. However, if you choose the right system, the installation effort is limited. Almost every workshop can assemble and install such a system. So if you drive a diesel vehicle and dream of a roaring V8 sound, you should definitely inform yourself about an active sound system for your vehicle. The sound is surprisingly realistic and - depending on the provider - can be configured in different volumes and timbres. Not only car and technology nerds, but also tuning friends will be enthusiastic in any case.
"Tuningblog.eu" - we keep you up to date on the subject of car tuning and car styling with our tuning magazine and present you the latest tuned vehicles from all over the world every day.
