Cars have come a long way from cassette players and out-of-tune radios. But there are always ways to deck out the audio system in your car. Here are just five ways to enrich your audio system and improve the sounds that you hear during your morning commute.
This may sound like a no-brainer, but many people only add to their car’s existing stereo system instead of gutting the entire thing and replacing it with something better. In audio distortion tests, “factory speakers” experience rapid declines after just a few years of use, so it isn’t worth adorning them with expensive add-ons. If you want high-quality, long-term sound, start with a good stereo from an actual stereo manufacturer.
Amps will do more than just make your music louder; they’ll also improve the depth and clarity of the sound waves that travel through it. The key is to make sure that you’re purchasing the right kind of amp for your vehicle. Look into things like size, wattage, channel use and even material type. There can be a big difference between oxygen free copper (OFC) and copper clad aluminum (CCA) amps. If you have questions about your specific model and how best to deck it out, you might want to contact a dealership for advice.
Turn your car’s audio system into a “smart” system when you add Bluetooth technology to the mix. It will allow you to do things like stream music from your smartphone and receive GPS directions from your dashboard, so it’s worth the expense. Most modern vehicles come with Bluetooth technology already equipped, but if you’re driving an older car, you can also buy or create a Bluetooth-compatible receiver.
There’s a trick to arranging your subwoofers, especially if you’re mounting them in a small car or cramped truck. Not only do you need to worry about the physical size of the units and where they’ll fit, but if you’re looking to experience surround sound, you’ll need to place, point and position them in a way that’s conducive to the audio reaching your ears in the driver’s seat. This is especially important if you’re looking for strong bass.
Speaking of dashboards, there’s no use in equipping your vehicle with a state-of-the-art sound system if your dash renders it inconvenient or inaccessible. You might need to make some adjustments to ensure that all of your gadgets, buttons and controls are at your fingertips. For example, if your car didn’t come with a charging station for your Bluetooth devices, you can install one yourself.
These are just a few tips for better car audio. A high-quality sound experience can be yours, but you’ll need to be willing to experiment with different products and arrangements. Good luck!