Infiniti, Nissan’s luxury vehicle division, has introduced a new feature in its full-sized SUV that allows the driver to take a phone call without interrupting the music playing for the other passengers. The driver is the only one who can hear the call, while everyone else can continue to listen to music without needing headphones. This feature is part of the growing competition among luxury car brands to enhance their sound systems, with many companies collaborating with high-end audio brands like Burmeister, McIntosh, and Bang & Olufson.
Developed by Infiniti, Panasonic Automotive, and Klipsch, the sound isolation system in the QX80 uses a combination of speaker placement and sound-canceling technology to create a quiet bubble around the driver. This technology typically utilizes speakers to create offsetting sound waves to block out unwanted noise. The Klipsch stereo in the QX80 reads the digital music track being played and uses that information to generate sound waves that only the driver can hear, allowing for a phone call to come through without disrupting the music for the other passengers.
In a test of the system in a parked QX80 in Manhattan, a real-life noisy environment outside the SUV highlighted the effectiveness of the sound isolation feature. While pop music played on the stereo, a phone call could be taken from the driver’s seat without the music being heard on the other end of the call. The system ensures that the conversation remains private for the driver, while other passengers can enjoy the music undisturbed. The call-masking feature works only when music is playing, providing a unique and seamless communication experience for the driver.
The unique collaboration between Infiniti, Panasonic Automotive, and Klipsch allows for a high-tech sound experience in the 2025 QX80 SUV. This feature is a testament to the ongoing innovation in luxury car sound systems, providing drivers and passengers with a more immersive and personalized audio experience. By incorporating advanced speaker technology and sound-canceling mechanisms, the QX80 sets a new standard for in-car audio systems while maintaining a comfortable and distraction-free environment for all occupants.
While luxury car sound systems have been increasingly emphasized by many manufacturers, the introduction of the sound isolation feature in the QX80 showcases a new level of sophistication and customization in vehicle audio technology. By leveraging the expertise of leading audio brands like Klipsch, Infiniti has raised the bar for in-car entertainment, ensuring that drivers can take calls without disrupting the music for other passengers. This innovative technology represents a significant step forward in enhancing the overall driving experience and providing a more seamless communication platform within the vehicle.
