Tag Archives: sound

Featured

Volkswagen Taigun, Virtus Sound Editions Launched, Prices Start From Rs 15.52 Lakh


The Sound Edition of the two cars gets cosmetic and feature revisions over the standard models

Volkswagen Taigun & Virtus Sound Edition

  • The Sound Editions of both models get decals on the C-pillar and a subwoofer.

  • The limited time edition is based on the Topline variants of the both cars.

  • This variant comes with a 1-litre turbo-petrol engine (115 PS/178 Nm) and is paired with either a 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic transmission.

  • Their features list remains the same as the standard Topline variants, which get an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, ventilated front seats and 6 airbags.

The Volkswagen Taigun and Volkswagen Virtus have just received another special edition called the Sound Edition. This is the first time that any carmaker has brought out a music-specific special edition of a car as opposed to the other special editions that have only focused on cosmetic enhancements. The special edition of the two compact offerings is available with their Topline variants and is priced as follows:

Transmission Option

Taigun Topline

Taigun Sound Edition

Difference

Virtus Topline

Virtus Sound Edition

Difference

Manual 

Rs 15.84 lakh

Rs 16.33 lakh

+Rs 49,000

Rs 15.22 lakh

Rs 15.52 lakh

+Rs 30,000

Automatic

Rs 17.35 akh

Rs 17.90 lakh

+Rs 55,000

Rs 16.47 lakh

Rs 16.77 lakh

+Rs 30,000

All prices ex-showroom Delhi

What’s Different With The Sound Edition?

Volkswagen Taigun Sound Edition Decal

Volkswagen has now equipped the higher-spec variants in the Dynamic Line of the Virtus and Taigun with the subwoofer and amplifier that was limited to the top-spec GT variants till now. Other revisions include special edition-specific body decals on the C-pillar.

Volkswagen Taigun Sound Edition Music System

The rest of the features of the Topline variants have been carried forwards like an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, electric sunroof, powered and  ventilated front seats, 6 airbags, auto-dimming IRVM and rain sensing wipers.

Only With The One Engine

Volkswagen Virtus Engine

The Sound edition of the Taigun and Virtus is based on  the Dynamic Line, and only comes with the 1-litre turbo-petrol engine option (115 PS/ 178 Nm). It is offered with both 6-speed MT and 6-speed AT options.

Also See: Volkswagen Taigun Trail Edition vs Hyundai Creta Adventure Edition: Compared In Images

Volkswagen also offers the two models with a larger 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine making 150 PS and 250 Nm, paired with either a 6-speed MT or a 7-speed DCT (dual clutch automatic transmission). There is also a recently introduced special edition for the SUV, the Taigun GT Trail Edition, offered with this more powerful engine.

Competition Check

Volkswagen Virtus & Taigun Sound Editions

There are no direct rivals for these Sound Editions. However, the Volkswagen Virtus goes up against the Skoda Slavia, Honda City, Hyundai Verna and Maruti Ciaz. On the other hand, the Volkswagen Taigun competes with the likes of the Maruti Grand Vitara, Hyundai Creta, Toyota Urban Cruiser Hyryder, Honda Elevate, Skoda Kushaq, and Kia Seltos.

Read More on : Volkswagen Virtus Automatic

BMW

MINI INHABIT SOUND: Exploring the Sound Identity of Cities

Milan. 5,000 visitors at the ADI Museum had the opportunity to experience MINI Inhabit Sound from October 24th to November 5th, 2023. The project was made possible through a partnership between MINI and the SOS School of Sustainability, a school established in 2015 by Mario Cucinella, offering a 9-month post-graduate program for young designers in Architecture and Sustainable Design. It was the culmination of a training and creative journey curated by Renzo Vitale, Creative Director Sound Design at BMW Group, alongside a group of international students focusing on the theme of Sound Design from the 2022/23 academic year.

“Through the collaboration with SOS – School of Sustainability,” says Federica Manzoni, Head of MINI Italy, “our brand aims to promote young talent and underline its commitment to the world of design by encouraging reflection on sustainability in urban environments, in line with MINI’s philosophy of Big Love for the People, Big Love for the Planet, Big Love for Progress. In this scenario, trends, creativity, design culture, and technology are vital for developing joint initiatives.”

“MINI is an iconic design object in continuous evolution, always faithful to its original while beating to the rhythm of the city,” continues Federica Manzoni. “It remains in line with current trends, while also paying attention to important urban and future city issues.”

The project and MINI’s vision of sustainability 
Sustainability in the urban environment is central to MINI’s strategy, born as a small, efficient, urban car in response to a 1950s fuel crisis, and evolved by anticipating the needs of the time to create a sustainable future.

Sustainability means well-being for the planet, its ecosystem, and mankind, whose behavior significantly impacts coexistence and the evolution of living beings. Well-being includes psychophysical balance, often attained through sensory gratification, including the sense of hearing.

Sound as an element of city identity
The course created by MINI, under the guidance of Renzo Vitale, focused on research into sound design, a discipline that plays a fundamental role in project realization.

Sounds contribute to defining a city’s identity, understanding them is crucial to redesign the dynamics of listening and to make conscious use of them for collective well-being.

Acoustics characterize and define a space, and sustainability in this area is increasingly important in architecture, building, urban design, and the production of objects.

Sound, fundamentally an invisible entity, is an essential element of existence, and the installation aims to give sound a visual and architectural form to create a holistic experience in which acoustics and sustainability work together for collective comfort.

The aim of the project
The objective of the MINI Inhabit Sound project is to build a sustainable space for listening, contemplation, and sharing by transforming sound into a tangible, livable form, enhancing the psychophysical and emotional condition of those who experience it.

“It is necessary to build auditory awareness so that individual actions lead to collective well-being,” says Renzo Vitale, Creative Director Sound Design of the BMW Group.

MINI INHABIT SOUND: the experience
The MINI Inhabit Sound installation aims to provide visitors with a real sound walk, starting from the sounds perceived in a metropolitan reality such as Milan.

The experience takes place along a tripartite auditory path representing interpretations of distinct conditions: urban soundscapes, suspended time, and a future auditory scenario conceived in the context of urban sonic sustainability.

The installation utilizes sustainable acoustic fabric and a Raum-im-Raum (room-within-a-room) solution to reduce acoustic field energy, disturbance, and reverberation, creating a space for concentration on physical and acoustic surroundings.

The visitor will experience combinations of everyday sounds and find themselves in an acoustically isolated space in the core chamber, thus being able to reflect on self-perception and the integration of natural and artificial sounds.

Materials and Project Partners
Caimi Brevetti SpA, with its sound-absorbing fabric, furnishings, and acoustic panels, has played a critical role in ensuring the required acoustic insulation for the installation.

The Snowsound-Fiber technology in the sound-absorbing fabric controls reverberation, and the Snowpouf elements use ECONYL® yarn created from the regeneration of nylon waste, such as fishing nets or used carpets.

The installation also features light from Artemide, enhancing the communicative and functional aspects through expressive graphic signs.

A unique sound for the new all-electric MINI family.
Sound design is a crucial element in customizing the products of the new MINI Family, providing different sound atmospheres for the new all-electric MINI Cooper, enhancing the immersive experience.

The MINI Sound DNA, based on the brand’s core values, will be featured on the new all-electric MINI, incorporating completely new driving sounds, jingles for MINI Experience Modes, and sound notifications for information and warning functions.

The new sound atmospheres include distinctive acoustic symbols, called earcons, signaling specific events or information.

Wearables

Why Audiophiles Disapprove of Beats Headphones

When we talk about audiophiles, we normally refer to individuals who are passionate about high-quality sound reproduction. However, the concept can be quite complex and nuanced.

Today, even someone who simply enjoys vinyl records and invests in a good turntable and speakers can be considered an audiophile. Similarly, individuals who listen to high-resolution recordings through streaming services like Tidal and Qobuz using proper equipment may also fall into this category. Nevertheless, the term “audiophile” often carries a negative connotation, as some enthusiasts are criticized for spending large sums of money on upgrades or peripherals that offer minimal or hard-to-discern improvements. There are even instances where these so-called audiophiles claim to have exceptionally sensitive hearing, leading to skepticism and challenge from their critics.

An incident that exemplifies this divide occurred in 2022 when the audiophile community was shocked to discover that Mobile Fidelity Sound Lab (MoFi), a specialty reissue label, had been misleadingly promoting their vinyl releases as entirely analog productions, despite most of their recent releases being mastered from digital files. What made matters worse was that MoFi was selling expensive “One-Step” records (priced above $100) under the pretense that they needed to limit quantities to preserve the master tape, even though many audiophiles couldn’t discern the use of digital sources in these records. Consequently, MoFi faced a class-action lawsuit, which they eventually settled.

In summary, the term “audiophile” encompasses a wide range of enthusiasts with varying perspectives and preferences.

News

Sawicki Speed Launches New Exhaust For Indian Challenger And Pursuit

Many cruiser riders appreciate the unique sound that their bikes produce, especially those with V-twin engines like the Indian Challenger and Pursuit. These bikes already have impressive V-twin sounds, but they can be enhanced even further with a high-quality aftermarket exhaust system.

Sawicki Speed, a performance exhaust specialist based in Denver, NC, has introduced a new exhaust system specifically designed for the Indian Challenger and Pursuit motorcycles. This new exhaust system is a Full-Length setup, joining the brand’s existing Mid-Length and Shorty offerings. The Full-Length exhaust system is ideal for riders who want to maintain the bike’s stock appearance while reducing weight and adding character by enhancing the engine’s sound.

In terms of functionality, the Sawicki Full-Length exhaust system offers weight savings of up to 23 pounds compared to the stock system. Additionally, the brand claims a power increase of eight horsepower and 10-pound-feet of torque. Sawicki attributes these performance gains to the exhaust system’s 1.75-inch to two-inch stepped design and hand-formed merge collector, which ensure precise airflow. The exhaust pipes themselves are made of mandrel-bent aircraft-quality 304 stainless steel tubes, hand-welded, and assembled in-house by Sawicki’s engineers.

Chris Clark, the president of Sawicki Speed, shared his vision for the Full-Length exhaust system, stating, “Our goal is to offer owners of these motorcycles a comprehensive line of exhaust upgrades to unleash a wicked sound while producing even more horsepower and torque. Is there anything better than upgrading your American V-twin with an American-made exhaust?”

Like all of Sawicki Speed’s exhaust setups, the new Full-Length system comes with all the necessary hardware for a seamless installation. Each exhaust system is backed by Sawicki’s Limited Lifetime Warranty, and you can further customize your preferred exhaust setup with optional stainless steel and carbon fiber heat shields (sold separately).

Sawicki Speed offers the exhaust system in three finishes: hand-brushed raw stainless steel, black ceramic, or a mirror polish finish. Additionally, you can choose from style pieces such as a black billet, aluminum, carbon fiber, or stainless steel end cap. The new exhaust system is now available for order on Sawicki’s official website.

ToyotaUk

Toyota and Generative AI: It’s Here, and This is How We’re Using It

The news about Artificial intelligence (AI) can sound alarming. With the latest hype, it sounds like robots could soon be gaining sentience and humans could slowly be replaced by thinking computers.

However, the reality is that AI is already enhancing human skills and capabilities in many products and services that we use every day. It has the potential to automate many tasks and free up humans to focus on more creative and strategic activities.

Toyota has been utilizing AI for years, both within the company and in the products it offers. The focus is on meeting the next generation of challenges and exceeding customer expectations.

Going Strong Since 2016

In 2016, Toyota set out to engineer a resilient cloud safety system, which led to the development of the Safety Connect service. Safety Connect uses data from the vehicle to identify collisions and automatically notify call center agents. Telematics information can also provide a more complete picture of the situation, enabling faster response times when needed.

Parallel to this, Toyota Connected North America (TCNA) engineers created AI-driven virtual agents called “Hey Toyota” and “Hey Lexus” to support voice interactions in vehicles. These virtual agents can control audio, climate control, and other functions, and even tell jokes.

From your SOS button to a number of other services, Safety Connect, powered by Toyota Connected’s Drivelink telematics platform, enables a number of safety and convenience technologies in Toyota and Lexus vehicles.

Since then, Toyota has been continuously building, testing, and deploying AI-powered features to improve safety, quality, and customer experience with their products.

Toyota teams have developed a machine learning pipeline that predicts low-speed collisions and distinguishes them from harsh braking and cornering events. They are working on classifying these micro-collisions by type, body location, and severity to assess the well-being of drivers and passengers, as well as identify hidden damages that may require repairs.

Additionally, Toyota has been using AI and data from connected vehicles to create predictive maintenance models. These models can identify potential maintenance needs before component failures occur, enabling customers to have more reliable mobility experiences.

Toyota Connected engineers are looking into Predictive Maintenance concepts, which are designed to use AI algorithms to detect when parts may need to be replaced before the driver feels or hears changes in performance, such as with brake pads and rotors.

“The auto industry is in a state of revolution rather than evolution,” said Toyota Motor North America (TMNA) President and CEO Ted Ogawa. Toyota is using AI to transform its business and provide intuitive and delightful experiences for drivers and passengers.

One example is Destination Assist, a tool powered by Drivelink that helps drivers with navigation. Toyota has automated this service using AI, reducing call times and improving quality.

“AI is complementing what Toyota companies do well – helping get customers on the road safely and confidently,” said TCNA Chief Technology Officer Brian Kursar.

In addition, Toyota is exploring the use of Generative AI and large language models to enhance its core competencies. Generative AI can be used to create personalized vehicle art and provide on-the-go explanations of dashboard icons, eliminating the need for paper manuals.

In April 2023, Toyota collaborated with Lexus marketing to launch a Generative AI vehicle art activation at the New York International Auto Show. Guests had the opportunity to create custom pictures of Lexus vehicles in different locations.

To further enhance customer experiences, Toyota is developing intelligent in-vehicle features using Generative AI. These features can assist with finding roadside destinations or even enable in-vehicle, contextual-based games.

Toyota has formed a centralized Enterprise AI group to focus on researching and experimenting with new AI technologies, including Generative AI. The group aims to coordinate efforts across Toyota divisions and affiliates to make these AI applications a reality while ensuring responsible AI practices are implemented.

Toyota sees AI as a powerful tool to transform its business and become a leader in the rapidly evolving automotive industry. By using AI responsibly, Toyota aims to accelerate its business transformation into an electrified mobility company while delivering better products and experiences to customers.

Technology

How To Turn Your iPhone’s Keyboard Into A Trackpad

Trackpad mode of iPhone's keyboard with an arrow next to it Shikhar/SlashGear

It might sound weird at first, but, if you want to, you can turn your iPhone’s keyboard into a trackpad. When typing on our iPhones, we often struggle to place the cursor correctly, end up highlighting wrong words, or unintentionally deleting letters. This can be particularly frustrating, especially when there is a lot of text on the screen. Many users face this common problem.

Fortunately, Apple has a hidden feature in its iPhones that solves this problem. This feature allows users to precisely navigate and edit text on the screen.

To turn your iPhone’s keyboard into a trackpad, you don’t need to download a third-party app or go through complicated menus in the Settings app.

Enable the trackpad mode on your iPhone

You can turn your iPhone’s keyboard into a trackpad by touching and holding the spacebar. This trackpad mode helps you accurately place the insertion point, similar to the trackpad on a MacBook.

  1. While typing or editing text, press and hold the space key at the bottom of the iOS keyboard with your thumb until all the keys fade away.
  2. Drag your thumb around to move the cursor on the screen. The entire keyboard acts as a trackpad, but the keys will reappear once you lift your thumb.
  3. Dragging your thumb quickly covers more distance on the screen, which is helpful when navigating through a large text file.
  4. Moving your thumb slowly provides higher precision in placing the cursor.
  5. You can also enter trackpad mode, use another finger to select text, and then use the trackpad to adjust the selection.

You can use this hidden trackpad mode while writing messages on WhatsApp, summarizing lectures on the Notes app, or drafting emails on Gmail or Apple Mail. The feature also works on iPads.

Featured

Lamborghini Celebrates Its History & Future At Private Lounge

Lamborghini celebrated its 60th anniversary by hosting an exclusive brand experience called Lamborghini Lounge Monterey during Monterey Car Week 2023. The event showcased a combination of innovation and tradition, highlighting the automaker’s position as a leader in the world of supercars. Held at the iconic Pebble Beach Golf Links, the celebration featured the unveiling of the all-electric Lamborghini Lanzador concept car, which offers a glimpse into the future of electric Lamborghinis.

The event also paid homage to Lamborghini’s rich history by showcasing five historic V12s, including the classic 400 GT, Miura S, Countach 25th Anniversary, Diablo, and Murciélago LP 670-4 SuperVeloce. These vehicles served as a nostalgic reminder of the brand’s evolution, alongside current models such as the record-breaking Urus Performante, race-inspired Huracán STO, and the first V12 HPEV, the Revuelto.

One of the highlights of the event was the all-electric Lamborghini Lanzador concept car, which represents the brand’s pursuit of environmentally sustainable luxury performance. Guests at the Lamborghini Lounge had the opportunity to get a close-up view of this cutting-edge vehicle that embodies Lamborghini’s ambition to redefine the driving experience.

The celebration also showcased Lamborghini’s craftsmanship with two dedicated Ad Personam studios, where VIP guests could use state-of-the-art virtual configuration programs to design their dream Lamborghini. The customization options demonstrated the brand’s commitment to personalized luxury.

In addition to showcasing cars, Lamborghini unveiled the limited-edition 3T electric bike, the RaceMax Boost LTD x Automobili Lamborghini. Designed in collaboration with Lamborghini Centro Stile, this exclusive bike reflects the essence of Lamborghini’s automotive brilliance, with only 30 pieces available worldwide.

Throughout the weekend, guests at the Lamborghini Lounge indulged in a complete “Made in Italy” experience, enjoying quality cocktails and culinary delights crafted by Lamborghini’s resident Italian chef. The event encapsulated the grandeur and finesse of Lamborghini’s lifestyle, combining innovation, history, luxury, and exclusivity.

As Lamborghini celebrates 60 years of automotive excellence, this celebration at Monterey Car Week 2023 not only honors its legacy but also represents an exciting step forward into the future. The focus on both the innovative electric Lanzador concept car and iconic V12s signifies Lamborghini’s ability to embrace change while honoring tradition, paving the way for many more years of delivering exceptional driving experiences.

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Lamborghini Lounge Monterey

22 Photos

News, Technology

Sonos Move 2 Speaker Details Leak Ahead Of Rumored September Launch

An upcoming model of the Sonos Move speaker, dubbed Move 2, is set to bring some improvements while maintaining its exceptional sound quality. According to leaks, the Move 2 will feature dual-angled tweeters, allowing for true stereo playback. It will also include a subwoofer to enhance lower frequencies. However, there is no indication of a major upgrade in this aspect. Additionally, the Move 2 will support Sonos’ Automatic Trueplay feature, which enables users to optimize the speaker’s sound signature for specific environments.

One of the most significant changes in the Move 2 is expected to be its battery life. While the current model boasts a respectable 10-hour battery life, leaks suggest that the Move 2 will offer an impressive 24 hours of continuous audio playback on a single charge. Furthermore, Sonos has opted to equip the second-generation Move with replaceable batteries, thereby increasing the lifespan of the product. The leak also suggests that the Move 2 will consume less power while in idle mode. As for design changes, Sonos is unlikely to introduce major alterations. However, the updated speaker may borrow several controls from the Sonos Era 100 and Era 300 models, such as a dedicated volume slider, which were launched earlier this year.

BMW

Distinctive sounds for the new, all-electric MINI family.

Munich. The new MINI family all-electric models have unique sounds that create an immersive driving experience. This includes new driving sounds in the interior, a distinct brand sound for the exterior, jingles for the new MINI Experience Modes, and new sound icons for information and warning functions.

“The new sounds are an important part of the digital experience and are customized for each new model. They appeal to the passengers inside the car and also shape the acoustic perception of the outside world. They make the new MINI unmistakable in both sound and appearance,” says Oliver Heilmer, Head of MINI Design. These sounds can be heard for the first time in the new MINI Cooper Electric.

The new MINI Sound DNA is based on the brand’s essential values and creates a positive and charismatic atmosphere. The MINI Experience Modes serve as the stage for these new sound worlds. Analog instruments, digital technology, and artificial intelligence combine to generate sounds that define MINI, provide information, and evoke emotions.

Four driving sounds for a personalized user experience.
The MINI “Core,” “Go Kart,” “Timeless,” and “Balance” Experience Modes feature carefully crafted driving sounds that provide auditory feedback to the driver during acceleration. These sounds can be heard inside the future MINI models, enhancing the driving experience and giving an authentic and informative impression of the driving situation.

The default driving sound for the new MINI model family is the “Core” sound. It is the only sound mode that can be heard both inside and outside the vehicle, serving as acoustic pedestrian protection. As the MINI brand sound, it is inviting, energetic, and inspiring. “The new sound design for MINI is inspired by Nicolaus Copernicus, who presented the heliocentric view of the world where planets revolve around the sun,” says Renzo Vitale, Creative Director Sound at the BMW Group. “We took inspiration from the round shape of the OLED central display for the ‘Core’ driving sound. It reminds us of the sun radiating warmth. Similar to how each planet reflects sunlight differently, we designed different sound components that vary depending on the driving situation.”

The MINI “Go Kart” driving sound is designed for a sporty driving experience. It features pronounced pitch and load curves, creating a fitting sound backdrop for agile and dynamic driving.

The MINI “Timeless” driving sound combines tradition and progress. It samples the engine sounds of conventionally powered models from the classic Mini to the MINI John Cooper Works GP and combines them with a futuristic interpretation of the “Core” driving sound, creating an acoustic journey through time. The sound gradually transitions from the sound of internal combustion engines to the sound of electric power as the vehicle accelerates.

The MINI “Balance” driving sound opens up a fourth soundscape. Originally designed for the MINI Vision Urbanaut, it is based on the sounds experienced in a forest at different times of the day and night, such as the babbling of a stream, the chirping of crickets, and the rustling of the wind in the treetops. These sound worlds provide a sense of relaxation and well-being inside the future MINI models.

Distinctive jingles and earcons.
The driving sounds for the future MINI family are associated with the new Experience Modes. Their activation is announced with a characteristic jingle, which prepares the occupants for a change in vehicle settings.

Another component of the new sound worlds for the MINI family is the use of earcons. Similar to visual icons, these serve as distinctive audible symbols to alert to specific events or information. Around 30 of these sound signals have been newly designed, including the turn indicator, seat-belt warning system, and Park Distance Control (PDC) tones. They will fulfill their purpose as easily identifiable signals with distinct and brand-typical sounds, capturing the attention of the occupants or warning them of potential dangers with different sound characteristics and intensities.

Technology

The Rise in Popularity of Old Record Players

There are a few main factors driving the resurgence of record players: sound quality, cyclical trends, and nostalgia. A study published by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) revealed that most record player purchasers were born between 1997 and 2012, making Gen Z the primary audience for the vinyl revival. According to Northwestern University’s Nu Science Magazine, younger generations are drawn to “vintage” trends as a way to experience a sense of nostalgia that they may feel disconnected from. This makes sense in the context of record players, as vinyl had largely disappeared by the time millennials and Gen Z came of age.

The rediscovery and reapplication of older technologies in a modern context is not a new phenomenon. Fashion curator Michelle Finamore discusses how recycled trends have been a common practice since the 17th century. This romanticizing of past eras can be seen in various industries, including entertainment and automobiles. It seems natural for us to view and incorporate certain elements from unfamiliar time periods. The resurgence of vinyl records and record players serves as evidence of this phenomenon.