Bang & Olufsen ( B&O ) audio system information and video

[Jason]

Here's a marketing video BMW released in January for the Bang & Olufsen audio system in the BMW 6 series. A lot of it is marketing sure, but for those not familiar with the system, it may still provide some info to help you decide whether it's something you want to order for the M5.

More details on the 6 series Bang & Olufsen sound system:

Bang & Olufsen High-End Surround Sound System delivers an unparalleled audio experience.

When it comes to delivering audio pleasure of the highest order, the Bang & Olufsen High-End Surround Sound System designed especially for the new BMW 650i Coupe hits all the right notes. Jointly developed by the Danish audio specialists and BMW, this system produces an exceptionally natural sound from 16 speakers distributed around the cabin. It is a fully active system featuring digital signal processing, which means the two bass speakers, seven mid-range speakers and seven tweeters all have individual amplifiers. This technology enables the targeted modification of any sound reflections inside the vehicle. The Bang & Olufsen High-End Surround Sound System uses Dirac Dimensions™ technology to recreate the acoustics of a reference listening room in the passenger compartment. All vehicle occupants therefore enjoy the same high-quality sound stage wherever they are sitting.

The electrical signals are converted into precisely defined sound waves using neodymium magnet drivers, and the mid-range speakers feature extremely stiff Hexacone diaphragms. The outstanding quality of the Bang & Olufsen High-End Surround Sound System is underlined by exclusive design features. The form and color of the advanced all-aluminum speaker grilles have been tailored precisely to the interior design of the new BMW 650i Coupe. The special perforation pattern of the grilles is created using a very sophisticated drilling technique. The grille mounts are not visible from the outside, ensuring that the grilles stand out from their surroundings by appearing to float in a slightly raised position above the surface. This exclusive ambience is further enhanced by a discreet lighting effect, which showcases the contours of the sound sources with a subtly impressive effect. A both visually and acoustically significant innovation, meanwhile, is the novel design of the center speaker in the instrument panel area, which uses Acoustic Lens Technology developed by Bang & Olufsen to provide a particularly harmonious sound. As soon as the audio system is activated, the central element containing the integrated mid-range speaker pops up, prompting the tweeter lens to be extended at the same time. The tweeter lens distributes its signals evenly at 180 degrees throughout the interior. This extraordinarily harmonious horizontal dispersion of sound is achieved through the special design of the lens, which also minimizes unwanted vertical sound dispersion.

[ddmerino]

Jason,
Thanks for posting. I may have to think about adding the B&O system for the M5 to my list. I will probably take a trip to my dealer and get to try the sound system in the 6 series. If I like it and the M5 B&O system in the M5 is identical, then I will include the B&O option.

[Jason]

Originally Posted by ddmerino

Jason,
Thanks for posting. I may have to think about adding the B&O system for the M5 to my list. I will probably take a trip to my dealer and get to try the sound system in the 6 series. If I like it and the M5 B&O system in the M5 is identical, then I will include the B&O option.

That's the best and only real informed way to pick an audio option - test it in person Let us know what your impressions are after hearing it.

[AlpWhite11]

Originally Posted by ddmerino

Jason,
Thanks for posting. I may have to think about adding the B&O system for the M5 to my list. I will probably take a trip to my dealer and get to try the sound system in the 6 series. If I like it and the M5 B&O system in the M5 is identical, then I will include the B&O option.

I'm going to try to do the same. Hopefully it's not too hard to find some 6 series equipped with it for demo.

[hakaida442]

I would order it even though I listen to sports talk radio most of the time when I'm alone in the car. But if I'm out with a girl or a friend then I would play music. I just wish that bmw apps wasn't only for iphones. It would be so cool if bmw apps came out with a google music app. I have over 12,000 songs on google music and love it on my galaxy nexus.

[mhh]

I'm a big B&O fan (5 TVs, lots of audio product) but I was very disappointed with the B&O in the MB SLS I tried the other day. I hope the one they put in the BMW is better. I couldn't believe how ordinary it sounded. Not bad, just not special.

[PatrickC23]

I think I'll be passing on the B&O...I can think of many other ways I'd rather spend the $3500. Plus half the year during the NFL season im listening to sports radio anyhow. That center speaker that lifts out of the dash is pretty sweet though.

[m5 guy]

Not getting the premium sound on the X5 is something I still regret so I think I am definitely going to get it for this one. Besides as already mentioned that center raising speaker is sick

[xc JET M]

having the premium sound system on my e60 (standard on m5 f10) which is absolutely wonderful, i don't feel the b&o option is necessary. i suggest listen to it first before deciding.

[xc JET M]

i agree. you could spend it on winter wheels and tires and keep some change.