What audio system does Mercedes-Benz use?
4 Answers
Mercedes-Benz W129/S50C and E320 series were optionally equipped with three audio system models: BE1430, BE1490, and BE1151. The Mercedes-Benz Beetle compact passenger car also featured three different models. Below is relevant information: 1. Harman/Kardon is a division of Harman International Industries (NYSE: HAR), specializing in the production of home and automotive audio systems. Founded in 1953, it is headquartered in Woodbury, New York, USA. Additionally, brands such as JBL, AKG, and Infinity also belong to the Harman group. 2. Harman/Kardon was founded in 1953 by Dr. Sidney Harman and Bernard Kardon, both passionate about music and art. The company played a role in establishing the high-fidelity audio industry. Their first product was an FM tuner, and within a year of its founding, Harman/Kardon released the world's first true high-fidelity receiver, the Festival D1000. This mono device, aimed at non-technical consumers, incorporated many features that are now common, such as combining a tuner, component control unit, and amplifier into a single chassis.
I remember Mercedes-Benz's audio systems are really sophisticated, with significant differences across various models. For entry-level models like the standard C-Class or A-Class, they come with Mercedes' own basic audio system, which is decent but lacks standout features. However, if you're willing to pay extra for upgrades or go for high-end models like the S-Class or GLS, they usually come standard with Burmester. Burmester is a top-tier German audio brand known for its exceptionally clean sound—bass is punchy without being overwhelming, and highs are crisp but not harsh. During my last test drive of an S-Class, the 3D surround sound felt like being enveloped in music, even capturing the subtle breaths of the singer. I heard upgrading to this system costs around 30,000 to 40,000 RMB, which is quite expensive, but audiophiles would probably find it worth every penny.
I drove my friend's older E-Class, and he said he couldn't afford to option the Burmester sound system back then—the stock audio was just like a regular home speaker setup. Later, he retrofitted a Harman Kardon system and noticed a significant improvement in midrange vocals, though the bass was still a bit muddy. The latest high-spec E-Class now comes standard with Burmester, featuring 13 speakers distributed across the doors and behind the dashboard, delivering exceptionally precise sound imaging. An audiophile friend once explained to me that Burmester's collaboration with Mercedes-Benz is highly integrated—they tailor the sound tuning to each car's unique cabin acoustics, even optimizing soundproofing materials for the audio experience. If you're on a tighter budget, some GLC SUV models come with Harman Kardon, which costs about 20,000 RMB less than Burmester.
When it comes to car audio systems, Mercedes-Benz mainly offers three tiers: standard models come with in-house brand audio; mid-to-high trims can opt for Harman Kardon; while top-tier and luxury models are equipped with Burmester as standard. The standout feature of Burmester is its tweeters, which use aluminum diaphragms, making metallic instrument sounds exceptionally crisp and clear. Last year when I visited the dealership, the salesperson demonstrated the Burmester system in a GLE – playing jazz, the saxophone sounded as if it were right at the steering wheel. The new S680 Maybach takes it even further with 31 speakers hidden in the headrests and roof. However, it's worth noting that even Burmester systems come in standard and premium 3D surround versions.
