OEM Audio Systems

Our '96 Chrysler LHS test car features Chrysler's finest audio package, the 180-watt five-channel Chrysler/Infinity Spatial Imaging audio system. Like the Mercedes S-Class setup, it's among the best factory systems because it includes a dedicated front center channel in addition to conventional front and rear side speakers and subwoofers.

(As illustrated in the chart below, we're now providing a breakdown of how each system is scored based on ergonomics and features, sound quality, and value, with a possible overall score of 100.)

The LHS system integrates exceptionally well with the interior. It includes a traditional Chrysler receiver with a 3x7-inch front panel and large, easy-to-prompt controls. Our test vehicle was equipped with the combination AM/FM/CD/cassette tuner, a $300 option. (A six-disc changer is available with the standard Infinity Spatial Imaging AM/FM/cassette receiver as a dealer-installed option for $600.) The in-dash unit lacked no essential features and because it included a CD player, the built-in CD changer controls of the standard receiver were deleted.

We were impressed with the system's exceptionally strong FM tuner performance. Itpulled in distant stations cleanly with minimal multipath distortion.

The LHS is equipped with 11 biamplified speakers in seven locations. Active crossovers built into the 180-watt amplifier complete the package. Dolby B and Dynamic Noise Reduction (DNR) are included. For precise adjustment, balance/fader operation is accomplished via a joystick-type control.

With a center channel added to the front speaker array, the LHS system does an exceptional job of placing the performance across the front soundstage. It's clearly superior to previous Chrysler/Infinity systems and rivals the performance of comparable aftermarket packages. Throughout the power range, up to the point where clipping distortion sets in, the system is clean and well defined. Chrysler and Infinity indeed are pushing the envelope of OEM performance.

The LHS is an exceptionally quiet car, registering a low 68dB sound pressure level at 60 mph. With a reading of 107dB at full output, the LHS audio system scores a commendable 39dB dynamic range differential. This signifies that the system-while not the loudest we've measured-is very loud. Yet, it still offers excellent detail.

Bass performance is well above average, but is hampered a bit by the narrow rear package shelf, which vents the bass energy. The bass reproduction falls just slightly short of the best factory system we tested, the Ford Mach 460 system offered on the Ford Mustang.

Frequency response is smooth across virtually the entire bandwidth except for the upper midrange. Because this is somewhat a matter of personal taste, it easily can be compensated for by adjusting the treble control on the receiver's built-in three-band graphic equalizer.

This system omits the "ambience" control found on some previous Chrysler/Infinity systems. The soundstage can be widened by this control-providing a very dramatic effect, especially for pop and other multitracked music-but its absence is more than offset by the inclusion of the center channel feature.

The Infinity Spatial Imaging option is one of the greatest bargains in mobile audio systems, factory or aftermarket. Chrysler and Infinity have combined their efforts to deliver a true, reference-level system. It ranks alongside the Bose S-Class and Ford Mach 460 packages as the best of the best. It would be virtually impossible to duplicate the LHS system's performance with a comparably priced aftermarket system.

If you're purchasing an LH-platform vehicle (Chrysler Concorde/LHS, Dodge Intrepid, or Eagle Vision), we recommend without reservation purchasing the Infinity Spatial Imaging option -Ty Chamberlain