Abbey Road Studios, a name synonymous with legendary recordings, possesses a unique sonic signature partly attributed to its collection of bespoke, often eccentric, audio equipment. These homemade devices, resembling props from a science fiction set, contribute to the coveted “Abbey Road sound” and are highly sought after by collectors. Replicating this distinctive sound in a car presented a significant challenge for Bowers & Wilkins, who partnered with Abbey Road Studios to develop Studio Mode for the Volvo EX90. Their task encompassed not only capturing the acoustic fingerprint of the physical studio but also emulating the effects of these unique, one-of-a-kind pieces of equipment.
The challenge of recreating Abbey Road’s distinct sound profile in the confined space of a car cabin required a multifaceted approach. Mirek Stiles, Head of Audio Products at Abbey Road, emphasized the importance of authenticity, drawing on the studio’s history of crafting its own custom audio processors. He highlights the significance of both the recording equipment used and the techniques employed by the studio’s engineers in shaping the final sound. These factors, along with the physical characteristics of the studio space, provided a starting point for developing a “reliable formula” for translating the Abbey Road experience to the automotive environment.
The development process involved extensive experimentation to capture the essence of Abbey Road’s distinct acoustic properties. By carefully analyzing the studio’s sonic fingerprint, Bowers & Wilkins and Abbey Road Studios sought to create a digital representation that could be faithfully reproduced within the car’s cabin. This involved meticulously mapping the studio’s physical dimensions and acoustic characteristics, as well as studying the behavior of the unique studio equipment. The goal was to create a digital model that accurately mirrored the studio’s complex sound profile, allowing listeners to experience the essence of Abbey Road within their vehicle.
The resulting Studio Mode system offers a remarkably immersive and adaptable listening experience. Users can tailor the sound to their preferences through an intuitive and visually engaging interface, reminiscent of music production software like Garage Band. This interface allows for adjustment along two primary axes: a horizontal control that transitions between “vintage” and “modern” studio sounds, and a vertical control that simulates the shift between the studio floor and the control room perspective. This degree of control allows listeners to fine-tune their listening experience, selecting the ideal sonic balance for their individual tastes.
The visual representation of the user’s chosen sound settings further enhances the experience, offering a level of sophistication rarely seen in car audio systems. This visual feedback reinforces the sense of control and provides a more engaging interaction with the audio system. The ability to visually navigate the sonic landscape, coupled with the precision control over the sound profile, sets Studio Mode apart from conventional car audio systems.
The success of Studio Mode lies in its ability to convincingly recreate the sonic characteristics of Abbey Road Studios within the challenging confines of a car cabin. By combining meticulous sound mapping, innovative digital processing, and an intuitive user interface, Bowers & Wilkins and Abbey Road Studios have created a truly immersive and authentic listening experience. This collaboration has effectively bridged the gap between a world-renowned recording studio and the automotive environment, allowing drivers and passengers to experience the legendary Abbey Road sound in a way never before possible. The system demonstrates a significant leap forward in car audio technology, promising a new level of sonic fidelity and customization for discerning music enthusiasts.
