By Santiago Rayes, Product Manager, GRAS Sound & Vibration
The new gold standard in in-cabin acoustic testing is here, and it offers precision, practicality, and repeatability.
Over the past few years, we’ve seen growing demand in the automotive industry for accurate, standardized methods of performing acoustical measurements inside the car cabin. Whether it’s performance testing, characterization or optimization of automotive audio systems, analysis of a vehicle’s NVH behavior, or general cabin acoustics benchmarking, engineers around the world have been searching for a reliable solution—one that is easy to set up and capable of delivering repeatable results quickly. Until now, they’ve had to rely on DIY rigs, ad hoc configurations, or outdated tools that don’t match the sophistication of today’s vehicles.
That’s why we created the GRAS AutoArray—our new 6-Microphone Array, built for automotive engineers who are ready to improve their workflow and test results reliability in their in-cabin acoustic testing.
Why It Matters
As part of the AES Technical Committee on Automotive Audio (AES TC-AA), GRAS has been deeply involved in the effort to standardize in-car acoustic measurement techniques. The release of the AES TC-AA recommendation marked a turning point: finally, a defined method for spatial characterization of the acoustics inside the vehicle using 6 microphones, each precisely positioned in an array configuration to make an accurate spatial representation of the listener’s head inside the car.
But while the methodology proposed by AES gained traction, there was one big problem—no one offered a high-quality, ready-to-use commercial solution.
So, we stepped up.
The GRAS AutoArray is a solution developed with the feedback provided from key players in the automotive audio sector and it is focused on solving real-world pain points experienced by customers working with in-cabin acoustic testing.
What Sets It Apart
· Two array configurations — Cross or AES — for your exact test needs
· Reduced measurement uncertainty with 1/4” microphones like the GRAS 46BC and 46BL-1.
· Spatial representation of the listener’s head inside the car
· Quick and easy setup for reliable and repeatable test results
· Single-cable convenience to avoid cable clutter
· Repeatable positioning using a robust and flexible seat-mounting fixture
· Rapid deployment in both R&D and production environments
· Flexible array pitch-angle adjustment for varied measurement needs
Why Now?
The shift toward electric vehicles and immersive infotainment systems has made cabin acoustics a key differentiator for automotive OEMs. As leading players in automotive audio set the tone for their partners and customers, the six-microphone array method is rapidly becoming the de facto standard.
By investing in the GRAS AutoArray now, you’re not just solving your current testing challenges, you’re future-proofing your workflow and ensuring you’ll obtain reliable, repeatable test results quickly.
This is your chance to move from improvised tools to a professionally engineered solution, and to align with where the industry is clearly headed.
Let’s Talk
If you’re curious about how the GRAS AutoArray can enhance your in-cabin acoustic measurements, please feel free to reach out. I’d be happy to set up a demo or have a conversation about how this solution can support your specific acoustic challenges.
Sincerely,
Santiago Rayes Product Manager, GRAS Sound & Vibration
