Automotive audio is the equipment that is installed in vehicles to provide in-car entertainment and information. In the past, this included simple AM radios. But today, it includes Class-D amplifiers, Subwoofers, Zoned audio, and Open-sourced solutions.
Subwoofers
The subwoofer is a part of a car stereo system that produces low frequencies. It is also used in cinemas and home theaters. However, they cannot reproduce all of the low-frequency sounds of a normal car speaker.
Subwoofers come in a wide variety of sizes and shapes. Most are small. There are even powered subwoofers that combine the amplifier and the subwoofer into one unit. They are great for space-saving locations. But powered subwoofers are not the best choice for big bass.
A high-quality subwoofer can make all music sound better. This is especially true if you want to hear more of the low end. To get the best results, you need to choose a subwoofer that has a good amplifier and a decent enclosure.
When choosing a subwoofer, you have to consider its size, its sensitivity rating, and its enclosure. These will help you determine which one is best for your needs.
Class-D amplifiers
Class-D amplifiers are gaining more and more popularity. They offer several advantages over their traditional counterparts. One reason is the power efficiency. Theoretically, a Class-D amp can achieve an efficiency of up to 90%.
In addition to the efficiency, Class-D amplifiers produce a much lower level of distortion. Moreover, they are also more compact than their Class-AB counterparts.
Compared to a typical Class-AB amplifier, a Class-D amplifier can produce up to 60% higher efficiency. That’s a big deal in an automotive audio application. Besides, Class-D amps also produce less heat.
Class-D amplifiers can also independently change the current or voltage sign. This means they can handle high amplitude signals with a small PCB size. However, they can also generate a lot of noise. Therefore, it’s best to use a good filter.
Zoned audio
Creating a personalized audio experience has been the auto industry’s dream for decades. However, the nature of the modern car cabin has hampered such endeavors.
Thankfully, the good folks at Hyundai Motors and Kia Motors have rolled out a slick separate sound zone control system that has the potential to change the face of car audio. The technology has been around for several years, but the company is expected to ship it in the next two to three years.
The most basic version of the technology uses existing speaker locations to assemble two directional speakers, each one powered by a pair of noise-canceling headphones. The resulting sound field is acoustically tuned to provide a 30-decibel difference in loudness between the front seats.
The most complicated and expensive variant is an eight-speaker system mounted on the headrests. Two small directional speakers are placed in each headrest and two smaller speakers are situated in each rear seat. This configuration is used for a variety of purposes, from providing a listening experience that is akin to being on a yacht.
Open-sourced solutions
Automotive audio open-sourced solutions can help manufacturers deliver compelling digital experiences to their customers. Not only do they provide consumers with benefits, they also help companies in the automotive industry minimize investment costs and increase product agility.
Automotive audio open-sourced solutions can be used for everything from music to navigation. They also make cars safer and provide more reliable data.
Many automakers are launching open-source initiatives. This trend is growing, and it will play an important role in the future of the automotive industry. It will enable every aspect of vehicle design to be enhanced.
Open-source software will also allow less well-resourced players to thrive in the SDV sector. For instance, Red Hat is one company that is leading a group of free software innovators in the connected car space.
Global market share
The global market for automotive audio equipment is expected to exhibit significant growth over the forecast period. Increasing per capita income, growing awareness regarding the benefits of electronic devices and high adoption of technologically advanced sound systems are expected to boost demand in the automobile accessory market.
APAC is expected to contribute a major revenue share to the global market for automotive audio equipment. Rising sales of passenger cars and increasing urbanisation are expected to drive the automotive audio market in the region. In addition to this, the region is also witnessing an increase in automobile manufacturing and sale. This has triggered an increased interest among regional OEMs to develop innovative car audio equipment.
North America is also expected to exhibit a promising CAGR in the coming years. Among the regions, the United States dominates the global automotive audio market. It has a wide variety of car audio manufacturers, which have led to the market’s expansion. Some of the leading firms in the region include Panasonic Corporation, Sony Corporation, Bose Corporation, and Harman International Inc.
