Volvo has always been known for building safe cars, but more importantly for audiophiles, they have helped pioneer multi-channel audio in factory sound systems. Originally introduced several years back in the S60 and V70 models, Volvo's Premium Sound System with Dolby Pro Logic II is now available in the new S40. This system features an in-dash 6-CD changer playing through 12 speakers, powered by a 4 x 75-watt amplifier and a 25-watt center channel amplifier. An 8" subwoofer with a 140-watt amplifier is a dealer-installed option, but was not included in the press vehicle I auditioned. A DVD navigation system is also an option, but satellite radio is not available from the factory.
One of the most unique features of the S40's audio system is the physical form of the center console where it meets the dash. Instead of a traditional DIN or double-DIN radio chassis, the audio controls and climate controls are part of a thin, stylish panel that resembles a waterfall with open access to a storage area behind it. In addition to the standard bass-treble-fader-balance controls, the Volvo premium sound system features center channel level and surround level controls. The 5-band, front and rear graphic equalizer, automatic volume control level and Dolby Pro Logic II settings are also adjustable through the head unit menu setup. The Dolby Pro Logic II processor can be set to full Pro Logic II mode, with the rear speakers producing surround sound information, or a "3-channel" mode, in which the front and rear speakers play the same information. The center channel information seems to be identical in both modes.
First impressions of the audio system revealed smooth midrange and high-frequency balance, with strong midbass. Vocals sounded natural and were centered in front of the driver with the Dolby Pro Logic II turned on. The stage depth was a little shallow, perhaps due to the tweeter location in the top corner of the front doors. The midbass speakers in the doors had good output, but seemed to be working overtime to make up for the lack of a subwoofer. Unfortunately, true low-frequency rumble and impact (below 35Hz) was absent when listening to many of the test tracks. Although the high midbass output made certain tracks sound punchy, it caused some vibration in the door panels, detracting from the listening experience. Another issue that detracted from an otherwise enjoyable audio system was intermittent surges in volume level when listening at higher volumes. To try and isolate the issue, I turned the Dolby Pro Logic II processing off and set the automatic volume control to its lowest setting, but the symptom persisted. (This seems to have been an isolated incident, perhaps due to a glitch in the amplifier, because our Volvo PR contact confirmed with Volvo engineers that this symptom had not been previously reported.) During listening, the CD changer worked smoothly and changed discs relatively quickly, but would not recognize one of my Dolby "Dual Disc" demo CDs.
From the aftermarket perspective, the S40 is a mixed bag. On one hand, the factory-installed center channel and large door speaker locations make it a breeze to upgrade the speakers to a full, multi-channel premium-brand setup. On the other hand, the unusual configuration of the "head unit" makes it almost impossible to switch to an aftermarket unit. Keeping the factory source unit and enhancing the sound system with a subwoofer and amplifier or upgrading the speakers would be more appealing if the OEM unit featured satellite radio or iPod integration. While the Premium Sound System in the S40 has room for improvement, I applaud Volvo's leadership role in adopting multi-channel audio in the OEM world.