Delphi Provides Another Reason To Get In The Back Seat- Surround Sound

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 8 -- Imagine putting a theatre in the back seat to keep children occupied as you journey on a long trip from Detroit to Las Vegas. Delphi Automotive Systems showcased this scenario at the 2002 International Consumer Electronics Show with a demonstration of its new 5.1 Theatre Surround System that features premium quality audio and crisp color video.

We believe this is the next logical step in evolution of rear-seat entertainment,'' said Bob Schumacher, general director of Delphi's Mobile MultiMedia Business Unit. ``The rear-seat audio/video option enjoyed great popularity when it was first introduced in 1997. Adding this new dimension of theatre quality is bound to enhance its market appeal.''

Delphi worked closely with Polk Audio to develop the demonstration. Polk, a leader in high performance home theater surround sound, furnished the smart digital amplification to optimize the 3D imaging of the vehicle's acoustics, while Delphi provided the overall system integration in the display vehicle. The 5.1 channel audio features Dolby® digital and DTS decoding. The unit features a DVD playback integrated into the radio head that also has a six- disc CD changer in the same head unit. The smart digital amplifier switches between 5.1 audio and the rear-seat entertainment system, which has an adjustable sweet spot for optimized acoustical imaging.

High-quality speakers bring the powerful sound to rear-seat passengers enjoying video. Sounds are placed in a three-dimensional space around the passengers. The multi-channel audio also properly positions solo instruments and voices. The system comes with an infrared remote control and a 7-inch LCD screen that flips down from the vehicle headliner for viewing.

``There are no tinny sounds with this system,'' Schumacher said. ``Cymbals sound like they are being clashed right there and voices sound like the people are in the vehicle. It is the ultimate in sound quality. I believe every family that enjoys a good movie is going to want this system.''