When envisioning the ideal soundstage, or essentially the zenith of flawless audio, the setting you’re likely imagining is not typically found within a vehicle. While high-end vehicle audio systems deliver impressive sound quality, a room—specifically, a rectangular space equipped with optimal gear—provides the best acoustics. The crux of the matter is that there’s a greater area for sound waves to reverberate in a room compared to the confines of your standard vehicle cabin. Nonetheless, a groundbreaking speaker system from Warwick Acoustics is set to completely redefine that traditional understanding. Warwick’s innovation has the ability to generate an “unmatched soundstage,” featuring authentic 3D surround sound.
The majority of speakers, including the wireless models designed for true audio enthusiasts, utilize a cone-like dynamic mechanism. In contrast, the Warwick Acoustics speaker is almost flat. These enhanced attributes are made possible through an innovative design. Known as electrostatic speakers, a flat diaphragm is sandwiched between two perforated metal plates. These plates function as electrodes, with the diaphragm receiving an electrical charge. As the audio signal is conveyed to the speaker, it creates an electrostatic field that mobilizes the diaphragm. However, when compared to traditional dynamic speakers with their conical structure, Warwick’s design is thinner and significantly lighter—about 90% less in weight. These speakers also emit distinctive sound waves, contributing to the perception that the sound is emanating from a greater distance.
What causes the Warwick electrostatic speakers to sound distant?
Sound waves tend to flatten as they propagate, generating areas of compression and rarefaction, much like ripples formed on the surface of disturbed water. The responsiveness of these waves shapes your perception of the sound source or the path it took. This is similar to the audio production of standard speakers that utilize conical shapes. Their waves disperse and flatten to create a sense of directionality. However, within a vehicle, those waves have limited travel, especially before they reach your ears, which results in a consistently close sound.
Warwick Acoustics’ electrostatic speakers generate flat sound waves. “This can be perceived as a sound originating from a greater distance,” explains Ian Hubbard, the company’s chief commercial officer. The nearly flat waves create the illusion of being in a larger venue with expansive acoustics, simulating sound that appears to come from as far away as 30 meters (98 feet). This is akin to how soundbars—such as the new Marshall Heston 60—deliver loud, high-fidelity audio within compact designs.
In addition, the speed and precision of the electrostatic speakers offer another advantage. Hubbard notes that their performance minimizes the necessity of manipulating audio “through digital methods,” making them smaller, more affordable, and requiring less energy for the “digital signal processing (DSP) components.” In essence, they are capable of delivering more while consuming less. Their slim profile allows for installation in headrests, seat materials, above the dashboard, and within the doors.
The speakers are constructed without rare earth elements, relying instead on sustainable upcycled and recycled components. Warwick claims that they are set to debut in a “global luxury car manufacturer,” with a launch planned for 2026. In the meantime, you can always pick up a pair of premium headphones for audiophiles to enjoy music wherever you may roam.
