Acura Active Sound Control
Acura’s Active Sound Control (ASC) is a technology used to improve the sound of the engine by making the sound level more linear as the RPMs increase. The ASC works with the Active Noise Control (ANC) system, which uses in-cabin microphones to detect noise and then uses a special amplifier and the car’s speakers to playback a reverse phase signal that cancels out the unwanted sounds.
The Active Sound Control system creates same phase or reverse phase sound signals to increase or decrease sound pressure levels, depending on engine RPM. The system works at any engine speed.
Disabling Active Sound Control
Some individuals may prefer to disable the Active Sound Control to avoid hearing fake engine noise piped into the cabin. The process to disable the ASC unit involves accessing it under the center console and making adjustments.
Location of Active Sound Control Unit
The active sound control unit is located in the passenger side footwell underneath a panel in the fifth generation Acura TLXs. In the 2021 TLX Type S, the active sound control unit is located directly behind the push-button start but is accessed through the driver footwell area. In the 2023 Acura A-Spec, the active sound control unit is located in the driver’s side kick panel.
Active Sound Control in Other Vehicles
Active sound design (ASD) is a concept used in automotive vehicles to alter or enhance the sound inside and outside of the vehicle. Acura’s Active Sound Control is a specific implementation of ASD, and similar technologies exist under different names in vehicles from other manufacturers.
In summary, Acura’s Active Sound Control is a technology that enhances the sound of the engine by making the sound level more linear as the RPMs increase, and it works in conjunction with the Active Noise Control system. Some individuals may choose to disable the ASC unit, and its location varies depending on the Acura model.
Contents
- Why is noise control important?
- What is active noise control system?
- How does active sound control work?
- Should I hear my engine running?
- Do you really need active noise-cancelling?
- Can you turn off fake engine noise?
- What is active engine sound?
- Do I need active noise cancelling?
- What is the active control of noise?
- What is the difference between active and passive noise control?
Why is noise control important?
Noise control matters because it improves your health. Studies show that prolonged exposure to high-intensity sounds can cause hearing loss, stress, and sleep problems.
What is active noise control system?
Active Noise Cancellation
Uses microphones and speakers to reduce background and surrounding noises. This is the most known type and has mostly been used in over-ear headphones. Technology has become so small and battery efficient now that it can be used in true wireless in-ear earphones.
How does active sound control work?
Active Noise Control works in a similar way to noise-cancelling headphones. But where they eliminate all outside noise, Active Noise Control is more selective. Microphones in the cabin monitor unwanted noises coming in from the engine, wind, powertrain and road.
Should I hear my engine running?
An engine that’s running smoothly should be virtually silent. But if you start to hear strange noises coming from your car, it’s necessary to take notice and figure out what might be causing the problem. Ignoring strange engine noises can lead to more sizable issues, so it’s best to investigate as soon as possible.
Do you really need active noise-cancelling?
Do I need noise-cancelling headphones? It’s worth clarifying that active noise cancellation doesn’t improve the sound quality of your headphones as such, though it indirectly benefits the clarity of music and podcasts by removing distractions. As such, just about anyone can enjoy the upsides of ANC headphones.
Can you turn off fake engine noise?
You only need to turn off ESE (Engine Sound Enhancement) to get rid of the fake engine noise. You should actually leave ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) on as it helps keeps the cabin quieter.
What is active engine sound?
Active sound design is an acoustic technology concept used in automotive vehicles to alter or enhance the sound inside and outside of the vehicle. Active sound design (ASD) often uses active noise control and acoustic enhancement techniques to achieve a synthesized vehicle sound.
Do I need active noise cancelling?
If all you want to do with your earbuds is block out ambient noise, active noise cancelling earbuds are a fine solution, especially if you want to block out low frequencies. ANC earbuds can block out up to 60dB of lower frequencies, like sounds from subway trains.
What is the active control of noise?
Active noise control is sound reduction using a power source. Passive noise control is sound reduction by noise-isolating materials such as insulation, sound-absorbing tiles, or a muffler rather than a power source.
What is the difference between active and passive noise control?
In other words, earbuds with passive noise isolation reduce mid-high frequencies better while ANC does better with low frequencies. Another thing to consider in regards to reducing outside noise is that ANC headphones work best at reducing constant background noise, not sudden transient noises.