Talking MINI

April 11 2011, 11:25pm

 

Today I finally completed the install of my "talking" horn for Manyara. The talking horn is actually the Horntones System. It allows me to load any electronic sound file as a horn sound. Loading themes into the control box is quite simple and I'm excited about the new theme. 

In the past I gave Sanbient a Transformer theme, specifically an autobot. He introduced himself, flirted with other MINIs, etc... Manyara currently is being designed as a rebooted/updated M.A.S.K. theme (one of my favorite cartoons as a child). Imagine KITT crossing over into the M.A.S.K. universe and that's what I'm going for.

I have to admit, the kid in me equates the convertible top dropping to Matt Tracker's Thunderhawk opening its gullwing doors and taking off in the form of a jet. Laughing As such, I've decided to give Manyara a different variety of things to say:

  • Introduces herself
  • Informs the driver weapon systems are online
  • "Selects" personnel suited for the mission
  • Directs an onlooker to remove their butt from her hood
  • Threatens
  • etc

The first event I will be taking her to (with the new system) will be MINIs On The Dragon. Because of this, I also have the horn roar like a dragon... just for the hell of it. lol 

Anyway, as for the actual install, I chose to place the horn in a more open area than I originally did with San (under the bonnet, near the cowl). Upon reviewing all my possible spaces I found there was a huge amount of space behind the rear passenger wheel. And there were already bolts for me to mount it on! Turned out to be perfect. 

From Horntone

From there I ran the wires into the boot to place the amp. 

From Horntone

Next step was running the wires through the cabin towards the dash. I decided to run them along the inside as if I was running wires for the illuminated sill plates. Much easier than I first thought. Finally ending with the Control Box mounted in the front. I chose to go with an unswitched power supply because I wanted the ability to use it without starting up the vehicle. If I know she'll be parked for a while, I plan on just unplugging the box from the power (just to be safe).

From Horntone
From Horntone

All things considered, I'm happy with this install. Can't wait to start using it.