#Japan #Tokyo #Asahi Kasei #Dirac #AK7709

Asahi Kasei Electronics Innovates Automotive Sound with Dirac Technology

Asahi Kasei Electronics Corporation, headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, recently announced the compatibility of its audio digital signal processor (DSP) with Dirac’s advanced audio correction software, AudioIQ. This partnership marks a significant milestone in the automotive audio industry, promising to deliver more natural and immersive sound experiences in vehicles equipped with their DSP technology. It also aims to streamline the development process, particularly in audio tuning for various car models.

Dirac’s audio correction technology enjoys a strong reputation across numerous markets, including automotive, smartphones, headphones, and speaker systems. The technology has gained traction particularly in battery electric vehicles (BEVs), where in-car entertainment is a focal point. Asahi Kasei’s audio DSPs have been ubiquitous in the industry, with over 200 million units shipped over the past two decades. The collaboration with Dirac paves the way for sophisticated acoustic optimization, enhancing sound clarity and spatial representation in automotive environments.

Key Features of the Partnership

Flagship DSP: AK7709

Asahi Kasei’s flagship audio DSP, the AK7709, can fully leverage Dirac’s suite of audio correction technologies, including AudioIQ. This integration permits a vast range of sound customization options that deliver extraordinary sound experiences for all vehicle occupants. With Dirac’s technology, the DSP can provide transparency and richness in audio that was previously hard to achieve.

Efficiency in Development Cycles

The integration of Dirac’s advanced semi-automatic tuning technology significantly cuts down the development labor traditionally needed for manual audio tuning, which may take months. Asahi Kasei will provide technical support for the DSPs, ensuring rapid system development and configuration for automotive manufacturers.

Synergy with Established Audio Solutions

By combining Dirac’s innovative technology with Asahi Kasei’s existing audio and voice solutions, the partnership takes the audiophile experience to new heights. These combinations enhance overall sound quality and various functionalities, ensuring a more enjoyable user experience.

Examples of Asahi Kasei's Audio Solutions

1. Dynamic Sound Control: Automatically adjusts music and audio balance based on road conditions and driving environments, maintaining an optimal listening experience.
2. Karaoke Functionality: Facilitates high-quality karaoke experiences in the car through applications that utilize low-latency echo cancellation and feedback suppression.
3. Engine Sound Creator: Allows the reproduction of engine sounds via the DSP, creating an immersive experience with various engine sounds like V8 and V12, even in BEVs where conventional engines are absent.
4. Active Road Noise Cancellation: A solution in collaboration with Silentium from Israel, this technology reduces noise from road and tire contact by using inverse phase sound to improve cabin quietness.

Insights from Asahi Kasei’s Project Leader

Ken Fujita, the ES Project Leader at Asahi Kasei, shared insights on the significance of this technology in the evolving automotive landscape. He noted, "With the shift towards electrification and autonomous driving, the in-car audio environment and how passengers experience their journeys are increasingly crucial. Unlike dedicated audio rooms, the limited space in vehicles combined with ambient road noise complicates acoustic tuning. I believe the combination of our longstanding DSP expertise with Dirac's software will significantly reduce customer development burdens and enhance the comfort of their travels."

About Dirac

Dirac is a globally renowned audio technology company based in Uppsala, Sweden. Known for its unique algorithms that enhance sound transparency and immersion, Dirac’s technology is applied widely in sectors such as automotive, smartphones, and speaker systems, earning accolades from firms pursuing top-tier sound experiences. Dirac operates R&D facilities in Copenhagen, Denmark, and Bangalore, India, along with offices in China, Germany, Japan, South Korea, and the USA.