The Bentley Batur by Mulliner, a coachbuilt masterpiece limited to just 18 cars, boasts an unparalleled audio experience thanks to the “Naim For Bentley” sound system. This £25,000 option represents over 10,000 hours of meticulous development, pushing the boundaries of in-car audio technology. This bespoke system, born from a 15-year partnership between Bentley and Naim, sets a new benchmark for sonic excellence on wheels.
A Symphony of Innovation: Crafting the Naim for Bentley Experience
The “Naim for Bentley” collaboration has long been recognized for its exceptional in-car audio systems. However, the Batur presented a unique opportunity to redefine the limits of automotive sound. Bentley engineers, in conjunction with Naim and Focal, embarked on a mission to create an audio system worthy of this extraordinary vehicle.
Over 56 specific requirements guided the development of the 20-speaker system, culminating in 10,000 hours of dedicated research and innovation. The result is “Naim for Mulliner,” a system that delivers an unparalleled listening experience characterized by presence, detail, power, warmth, and immersive sound.
Bespoke Components: Engineering Audio Perfection
The “Naim for Mulliner” system features bespoke Focal speaker drivers housed in unique 3D-printed Bentley speaker baskets. This advanced manufacturing technique allows for intricate designs and optimized acoustic performance.
The 20 speakers—six tweeters, nine mid-range speakers, two woofers, two active bass transducers, and a subwoofer—work in harmony to create a rich and dynamic soundscape. New speaker drivers enhance the performance of the mid-range and tweeters, while modifications to the woofers and subwoofer improve linearity and dynamics.
The ‘M’ Cone: A Revolution in Speaker Technology
Derived from Focal’s acclaimed Grand Utopia speakers, the mid-range and tweeters in the “Naim for Bentley” system utilize patented ‘M’ cone technology. This single-piece cone, crafted without a dust cap, achieves exceptional rigidity, lightness, and damping—critical factors for high-quality sound reproduction.
The ‘M’ cone’s unique profile ensures a linear frequency response, minimal distortion, and superior sound dispersion. The result is breathtaking detail and captivating realism, immersing the listener in a truly authentic audio experience.
Fine-Tuning for Uncompromising Performance
Beyond the advanced hardware, meticulous attention was paid to fine-tuning the system. Focal engineers focused on minimizing cone deformation and resonance, employing finite element analysis and simulation software to optimize the suspension material connecting the cone and basket.
Each speaker’s position within the Batur’s cabin was carefully chosen for optimal system integration. Structural enhancements to the car’s doors and rear cabin further reduce distortion and enhance sound isolation, ensuring a pristine listening environment.
Naim for Bentley: A Legacy of Audio Excellence
The “Naim for Mulliner” system in the Batur exemplifies the enduring partnership between Bentley and Naim. Both companies share a commitment to British design and engineering excellence, resulting in the most advanced in-car audio systems available. Naim’s innovative Digital Signal Processing (DSP) technology further refines the audio experience, optimizing the soundstage based on seating position and listening preferences. This ensures exceptional performance regardless of speed or road conditions.
The 18 discerning customers of the Bentley Batur by Mulliner will experience the pinnacle of in-car audio, a testament to the relentless pursuit of sonic perfection. The “Naim for Bentley” system elevates the driving experience to new heights, transforming every journey into a symphony of sound.
