Digital auto systems in the future?

[RickH]

Does anyone know if any of the SACD or DVD-A manufacturers are looking at or developing 5.1 surround in auto sound systems? As I do the majority of listening in my car and enjoy it most there, it would seem that the auto interior would be a logical place for surround sound, plus most car systems come with at least four speakers out of the factory anyway. I'm sure that 5.1 digital would blow the pants off stereo coming out of four speakers. I'd surely go this "route" ;) if it were available and I believe a lot of other car-driving music lovers would too. Maybe this is the way for the technology to gain much wider acceptance?

[RickH]

Wow, can't believe no one has an opinion on this...

[Reginald]

Originally posted by RickH
Does anyone know if any of the SACD or DVD-A manufacturers are looking at or developing 5.1 surround in auto sound systems?

I know of a few automakers puting DVD-A in already. Your point of people spending time traped in a car listening to music was specifically mentioned as a reason and an "in" for the home market.

[Cliff]

I have a mutual acquaintance who works for Sonic Solutions (he does something for DVD-As, but I don't know exactly what). He just had a 5.1 DVD-A system installed in his car. So, I know that Pioneer has a 5.1 DVD-A player out there. I can't wait to get together with this guy and see/hear it! My friend who checked it out, claims that the center speaker mechanically reclines into the head unit when not in use!

[RetroSmith]

Yes, DVD-A is slowly starting to appear in cars. Its a good marketing move, actually, if you absolutely love it in your car, you'll want it in your house!!!

[Gary]

So how this play in the car without a TV to control it? Is this a special unit that automatically defaults to the 5.1 track?

[YaQuin]

Originally posted by Gary
So how this play in the car without a TV to control it? Is this a special unit that automatically defaults to the 5.1 track?

Well Gary, if the manufacturers add a "Group" button, then you should easily be able to choose between Hi-Res Stereo, Hi-Res Multi Channel, and other options. It works great on the home system.

Who really knows though. The implementation will have to mature for a while, but I could imagine a 'generic' menuing system that works for all DVD-A's. Hey, it could happen. ;)