Audi vehicles have advanced infotainment and sound systems to enhance the driving experience. One such feature is GALA Plus, short for “Geschwindigkeitsabhängige Lautstärkeanpassung,” which translates to “speed-dependent volume control”. This system automatically adjusts the audio volume based on vehicle speed and ambient noise levels.
The GALA Plus feature ensures a consistent listening experience. As the vehicle accelerates, road and wind noise increase, so the system raises the volume accordingly. When slowing down, the volume is reduced to prevent unnecessary loudness.
GALA Audi Meaning:
In Audi vehicles, GALA is an intelligent sound adjustment system that enhances driving comfort. It detects speed changes and adjusts the audio accordingly. This ensures that music, navigation prompts, or phone calls remain audible without requiring manual volume adjustments. The system is handy for highway driving, where noise levels fluctuate.
What Is GALA Audi?
GALA is a standard feature in many Audi models and can be customized through the MMI system. Depending on the model, users may have options to set GALA levels manually, ranging from low to high sensitivity. Some advanced systems, like GALA Plus, also factor in external noise levels using a built-in microphone, making volume adjustments even more precise.
How Does GALA Plus Work?
GALA Plus is an adaptive sound control feature in Audi vehicles. It automatically adjusts the audio volume based on driving speed and background noise to maintain clear and balanced sound.
The system works using speed sensors that monitor vehicle movement in real-time. As speed increases, road noise, engine vibrations, and wind interference can make audio more challenging to hear. GALA Plus compensates by automatically increasing volume.
A ceiling-mounted microphone detects external noise levels in models with the Bang & Olufsen Sound System. The system then fine-tunes the sound output to match changing conditions, ensuring a consistent listening experience without requiring manual adjustments.
Some Audi models allow users to customize sensitivity settings, while others only offer “active” or “off” options. Whether driving through city streets or highways, GALA Plus helps keep audio optimal.
GALA vs. GALA Plus-What’s the Difference?
Audi offers two versions of its speed-sensitive volume control: GALA (Geschwindigkeitsabhängige Lautstärkeanpassung) and GALA Plus. While both adjust audio levels based on speed, GALA Plus introduces more advanced tuning and noise detection for a smoother listening experience.
1. GALA-The Standard Option:
The standard GALA system automatically adjusts volume as the car accelerates or slows down. Drivers can typically choose from sensitivity levels (1-7) or an “Auto” setting to control how aggressively the system responds to speed changes. However, GALA does not factor in external noise levels, making its adjustments less refined.
2. GALA Plus-A More Advanced Approach:
GALA Plus builds on the standard version by incorporating real-time noise detection. Some Audi models, especially those with the Bang & Olufsen Sound System, feature a ceiling-mounted microphone that monitors background noise. This allows GALA Plus to adjust volume, sound balance, bass, and treble, ensuring consistent audio clarity across different driving conditions.
3. Key Differences Between GALA and GALA Plus:
| Feature | GALA | GALA Plus |
| Volume Adjustment | Based on speed | Based on speed and noise levels |
| User Control | Sensitivity levels (1-7) or Auto | Some models allow sensitivity changes, while others only allow “Active” or “Off.” |
| Noise Detection | Basic speed-based adjustments | Uses a microphone for real-time noise detection |
| Audio Refinements | Adjusts volume only | Adjusts volume, bass, treble, and equalization |
4. Which One Is Better?
The standard GALA system provides adequate volume adjustments for everyday driving. However, for audiophiles or those who drive in varying noise conditions, GALA Plus offers a more seamless and refined experience. Its ability to adapt to external sounds makes it the preferred option in premium Audi models with advanced sound systems.
User Experiences with GALA Plus:
Many Audi owners have shared their experiences with GALA Plus in forums. Here are some key points:
- Some users find Auto mode ineffective, reporting that the volume does not adjust as expected.
- Others appreciate the feature, especially on highways where road noise is higher.
- There is confusion regarding terminology, as Audi sometimes labels the feature as “Volume Balancing” instead of GALA Plus in manuals.
Benefits of GALA Plus:
1. Hands-Free Volume Adjustment:
GALA Plus automatically adjusts audio levels based on driving speed and background noise. This reduces the need for manual volume changes, allowing the driver to focus on the road.
2. Improved Sound Clarity:
The system ensures that music, navigation prompts, and calls remain evident, even at higher speeds. It fine-tunes audio output to match changes in road noise, providing a consistent listening experience.
3. Enhanced Comfort:
Whether driving in the city or on the highway, GALA Plus maintains an optimal sound level. This helps create a more relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere for drivers and passengers.
4. Seamless Integration with Premium Audio Systems:
GALA Plus is designed to work with high-end sound systems like Bang & Olufsen, improving the overall acoustic experience by adapting to real-time driving conditions.
5. Adapts to Cabin Acoustics:
The system considers factors like wind noise, engine sounds, and open windows to adjust volume accordingly. This ensures that audio quality remains steady, no matter the driving conditions.
Limitations of GALA Plus:
1. Limited User Control in Some Models:
Not all Audi models allow manual sensitivity adjustments for GALA Plus. Some versions only offer “active” or “off” settings, limiting customization.
2. Environmental Factors May Affect Performance:
External noise detection may not always be precise. Traffic, tunnels, and unpredictable background sounds can impact how the system adjusts volume.
3. Older Manuals May Use Different Terminology:
Some Audi manuals refer to GALA Plus as “Volume Balancing,” which may confuse users trying to locate or adjust the settings.
Despite these limitations, GALA Plus is valuable for enhancing in-car audio, ensuring clarity, and minimizing driving distractions.
Enhanced Audio Control and Seamless Integration:
The Bang & Olufsen Sound System is built into Audi’s Multi Media Interface (MMI), allowing easy and intuitive control. The system is designed to deliver high-quality sound without complex adjustments.
Gala Plus-Smart Sound Adjustment:
A microphone placed in the ceiling continuously monitors background noise and adjusts the volume and balance in real-time. This ensures that external sounds like road and wind noise do not disrupt the listening experience.
Additionally, an intelligent loudness function fine-tunes bass, mid-range, and treble across all volume levels, keeping sound clear and balanced in every driving condition.
Enhanced Sound Control with Audi MMI®:
Audi’s MMI® touch response system allows precise audio adjustments through an easy-to-use touchscreen interface. Drivers can modify balance, equalizer (EQ) settings, and volume levels to match personal preferences.
The system features haptic feedback, which slightly vibrates when making selections. This ensures accurate control without needing to look away from the road. Additionally, subtle sound responses confirm adjustments, creating a more interactive experience while fine-tuning audio settings.
With these features, Audi’s MMI® system makes customizing in-car sound simple and seamless.
Gala Plus Audi-Technical Breakdown:
1. Speakers:
Audi vehicles’ Gala Plus sound system is designed for precise and immersive audio. It features 19 strategically placed speakers, including a DHS-optimized front door speaker that enhances clarity. These speakers deliver balanced sound, ensuring a high-quality driving experience at low or high speeds.
2. Amplifier:
At the heart of the system is a 16-channel DSP amplifier that produces over 750 watts of power. The amplifier is designed with Dynamic Lines aluminum accents, complementing Audi’s sleek interior. Additionally, LED-lit woofer grills in the front doors add a refined touch to the cabin’s ambiance.
3. Sound Features:
The system includes 3D sound adjustment with three intensity levels, allowing drivers to fine-tune their listening experience. It also supports 5.1 Surround Sound, which is available with MMI Navigation Plus. A Vehicle Noise Compensation feature actively adjusts volume based on road and engine noise, maintaining consistent sound quality in various driving conditions.
Bang & Olufsen 3D Advanced Sound System:
Developed in collaboration with Bang & Olufsen engineers, this system brings high-quality, immersive audio to Audi vehicles. It includes up to 23 active speakers and specially designed acoustic lenses that enhance sound distribution.
Key Features:
- 5.1 Surround Sound (available with MMI Navigation Plus)
- ICE power amplifier delivering up to 1920 watts
- Advanced Vehicle Noise Compensation for consistent audio clarity
- Rising acoustic lens tweeters that adjust for better sound projection
- Aluminum door speaker covers for a premium aesthetic.
Bang & Olufsen 3D Sound System:
This system is designed to deliver concert-like sound using strategically placed speakers and the GALA™ Plus microphone system, which adjusts volume based on driving conditions.
Key Features:
- 5.1 Surround Sound (available with MMI Navigation Plus)
- Amplification power up to 755 watts
- Up to 20 high-performance speakers
- LED interior accents that enhance the cabin’s ambiance
- Aluminum speaker grilles for durability and style
- Sonic tuning technology for precise audio adjustments
Bang & Olufsen Sound System:
This system blends Audi’s technology with Bang & Olufsen’s expertise, creating a refined listening experience during every drive.
Key Features:
- 5.1 Surround Sound (available with MMI Navigation Plus)
- Amplification up to 755 watts
- Up to 20 speakers for full-range sound
- LED interior lighting accents for a modern touch
- Aluminum speaker grilles designed for durability
- Precision sonic tuning for an optimized listening experience
Each Bang & Olufsen sound system version is engineered to deliver clear, balanced, and immersive audio, making every drive more enjoyable.
Maintaining Natural Sound Quality in Audi:
Audi’s Bang & Olufsen® 3D Advanced Sound System includes two acoustic lenses from the dashboard. These specially designed tweeters distribute mid and high-frequency sounds across a 180-degree range, ensuring even sound throughout the cabin.
This setup helps preserve the natural depth of sound, making music and voices feel clear and immersive. The system creates a balanced listening experience by reflecting audio in multiple directions, no matter where passengers sit.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q1. What Is GALA in Audi?
GALA stands for Geschwindigkeitsabhängige Lautstärkeanpassung, meaning speed-dependent volume control. This function automatically modifies the audio volume depending on the car’s speed. As the car moves faster, road and wind noise increase, so GALA raises the volume to maintain clarity. When the vehicle slows down, the volume lowers to prevent unnecessary loudness.
Q2. Why Can’t I Adjust GALA Plus Sensitivity in My Audi?
In some models, like the 2014 Audi S4, GALA Plus only offers an On/Off option instead of manual sensitivity control. Older versions allowed adjustments on a scale of 1-7 or Auto, but newer software may limit customization.
Q3. How Do I Enable or Disable GALA Plus?
To adjust GALA settings in most Audi vehicles:
- Open the MMI menu on the infotainment screen.
- Select “Sound” or “Audio Settings.”
- Look for “Volume Balancing” or “GALA.”
- Choose Auto, Off, or available sensitivity levels (if applicable).
Q4. Does Every Audi Have GALA Plus?
Not all Audi models come with GALA Plus. While most modern Audis include some form of speed-dependent volume adjustment, GALA Plus is usually found in higher-end models, especially those with the Bang & Olufsen Sound System.
Conclusion:
GALA Plus is a valuable feature for Audi owners looking for a seamless audio experience. While its effectiveness depends on the model and sound system, it remains helpful in maintaining consistent volume levels while driving. If you’re unsure about the settings in your vehicle, check the MMI sound menu or consult your Audi owner’s manual.
