DESPITE its all-new appearance, the standard BA Falcon sound system retains the previous model's 100-watt output, which nevertheless beats the 80-watt output of Commodore's new Blaupunkt system.

The six-speaker system comprises a single in-dash CD player, auxiliary input for MP3/Playstation, improved security features (the head unit checks with the Body Electronics Module and Powertrain Control Module each time before switching on and therefore will not work in another car), speed dependent volume control and AM noise reduction.

Two rows of controls make up the base system. On the lower lip of the Interior Command Centre's LCD screen are six buttons, referred to as "piano keys", which operate the presets for radio frequencies and CD track selection.

Set into the lower part of the ICC panel, above the HVAC controls, are five flush-fitted, identically sized and shaped push buttons for Loud, AM, FM, AS and Menu functions.

They are flanked at either end by satin chrome controls - a rotary knob/push button at the right looks after on/off and volume, while at the left is a rocker switch split into two hemispheres, one for radio tune scrolling and one for CD track shuttling.

There are also steering wheel-mounted controls for mode, seek (station and track) and volume functions, while a glass-mounted aerial replaces the traditional retractable metal antenna fitted previously.