Photo Credit: Daimler/DolbyMercedes will equip all of its 2022 models with Dolby Atmos support – with some specific requirements.
All models that use its latest MBUX interface and an optional Burmester 3D or 4D sound system will support Dolby Atmos. Compatible music will be played in a ‘vertically enhanced sound field,’ which the auto maker says aims to replicate the sound of a live concert.
The 4D sound system includes 31 speakers, six of which help create the 3D effect of Dolby Atmos. The setup also includes four near-ear speakers in the front seats and an 18.5-liter subwoofer with two amplifiers and 1750 watts of power.
Mercedes says Dolby Atmos support is coming to all of its 2022 models – but not all at once.
The Mercedes-Maybach will get the Dolby Atmos update in Summer 2022, followed by the S-Class. Other models in the Mercedes line-up will follow. Dolby is certainly proud to have a luxury automaker on board with pumping out its immersive sound format during the commute.
“At Dolby, we are passionate about extending the Dolby Atmos Music experience, so that consumers can enjoy it anywhere and Mercedes-Benz shares our vision,” says John Couling, Senior Vice President Commercial Partnerships at Dolby Laboratories.
“We are excited to be collaborating with them to accelerate the adoption of this immersive auditory experience in cars. The integration of Dolby Atmos into the S-Class and the Mercedes-Maybach will offer an additional superior feature to customers whether they are in the driving seat or the passenger.”
“With Dolby Atmos and the Burmester sound system, we offer our customers an exciting music experience in the vehicle that is almost like a live concert,” says Britta Seeger, a Board Member for Mercedes-Benz AG. “I am sure the customers will be delighted.”
The Burmester sound system is probably more responsible for that ‘almost’ live sound more than any audio processing. Don’t get me wrong, Dolby Atmos sounds great, but the quality of sound system helps that audio processing stand on the shoulders of giants, so to speak.
