Bentley Motors has recently unveiled the remarkable new ‘Naim for Mulliner’ sound system, setting a new standard for in-car audio excellence.
With over a decade of development, state-of-the-art hardware, and complete system recalibration, this audio masterpiece promises an unparalleled auditory experience for Bentley Batur customers.
Setting a New Benchmark
In the realm of in-car audio systems, ‘Naim for Bentley‘ has long been revered as one of the finest. However, when Bentley introduced their bespoke coachbuilt model, they embarked on a journey to redefine the benchmark for in-car audio quality.
With a partnership spanning more than 15 years, the ‘Naim for Bentley‘ system laid a solid foundation for further enhancement. The goal was clear: create an unparalleled musical experience with unmatched presence, detail, power, warmth, airiness, and immersion, all while utilizing cutting-edge technologies.
In collaboration with Naim and Focal, more than 56 requirements and recommendations were meticulously identified for the 20-speaker system planned for the Batur. The outcome is the culmination of 10,000 hours of innovation, drawing from the expertise of both brands, resulting in the pinnacle of in-car audio – ‘Naim for Mulliner.’
The Engineering Marvel
The heart of this system lies in bespoke Focal speaker drivers, ingeniously housed within Bentley’s unique speaker baskets, manufactured using additive technology. This technological leap delivers a significant improvement in performance. Comprising six tweeters, nine mid-range speakers, two woofers, two active bass transducers, and one sub-woofer, this 20-speaker ensemble has been meticulously fine-tuned to perfection.
All mid-range speakers and tweeters have been specially developed for ‘Naim for Mulliner,’ while the woofers and sub-woofer have undergone modifications to enhance linearity and dynamics.
These new speakers draw inspiration from Focal’s Grand Utopia speakers, featuring patented ‘M’ cones. Crafted from a single piece, the ‘M’-profile delivers exceptional rigidity, lightness, and damping, resulting in an incredibly linear frequency response with minimal distortion and superior sound dispersion. The result is a level of detail that elevates the listening experience to a realm of captivating realism.
Sonic Perfection
The tweeter, meticulously selected for its ability to produce silky trebles, boasts a distinctive wide-angle diffusion that complements the in-car listening environment. Composed of an ‘M’-profile aluminium/magnesium cone, it offers impeccable harmonic balance and purity. Together, these elements create a sound that is immersive, exhilarating, warm, and powerful.
Managing the midrange register, often the most challenging aspect of sound systems requires a delicate balance. The transition from bass to midrange had to be seamless, while also considering dispersion and acceleration in tandem with the tweeter. Focal’s engineers addressed the frequency at which cone deformation, leading to distortion, occurs. By fine-tuning the suspension material’s weight and shape through simulation software, they achieved the optimal speaker driver performance.
Integration and Immersion
Each speaker’s placement was carefully selected to ensure seamless system integration, culminating in an uncompromising musical experience. Strengthening and stiffening of the Batur’s cabin, particularly around the doors and rear cabin areas, have been incorporated to reduce distortion and enhance isolation for the new ‘Naim for Mulliner‘ system.
For the 18 fortunate customers who have already reserved their Batur, a unique co-creation experience awaits. Bentley’s Mulliner Design team offers the opportunity to specify their cars to their exact preferences, including the option to incorporate the ultimate in-car audio system. The Batur represents Mulliner’s evolution, catering to the demand for bespoke vehicles that seamlessly blend luxury and performance in the inimitable Bentley style.
A Sound Partnership
Naim for Bentley represents the pinnacle of advanced music systems, both on the road and in the home. With shared values of British design and engineering excellence, Naim and Bentley have collaborated to create the most powerful in-car original equipment manufacturer (OEM) system available today.
Naim’s Queen’s Award-winning innovation, coupled with a groundbreaking Digital Signal Processing (DSP) system, serves as the core of the Naim for Mulliner audio system. This innovative technology offers various modes to optimize the in-car soundstage based on seating positions and listening preferences, ensuring top-tier audio performance regardless of speed or road conditions.
Accessing in-car sound settings is a breeze via a 12.3-inch HD touchscreen interface at the centre of the dashboard. It offers versatile configurations, allowing users to choose between a single display, a split 2:1 layout, or three different functions simultaneously. This design prioritizes ease of use, sporting a contemporary and elevated aesthetic.
Naim for Mulliner’s audio system seamlessly integrates with popular streaming services such as Spotify, Apple Music, TIDAL, and Deezer, allowing customers to enjoy their preferred music, digital radio, or spoken word media like audiobooks and podcasts.
In conclusion, Bentley Motors’ ‘Naim for Mulliner’ sound system represents a culmination of engineering excellence and a commitment to delivering the ultimate in-car audio experience. For those fortunate enough to own one of the 18 handcrafted Baturs, it promises to be an auditory journey like no other, where every note and nuance comes to life in unparalleled clarity and richness.