If you love jamming out while driving your car audio system is important. Click here for eight car audio features you need in your vehicle.
Did you know the first car audio system was introduced in the 1930s, allowing drivers to listen to the radio while on the move? This company would later become the communication giant Motorola, but since then many more companies and innovations in audio have appeared. So what does make a great car sound system?
With so many features available, it can be hard to know the ones you need. Read on as we discuss the car audio features you need in your vehicle.
1. Smartphone Compatibility
In a modern car, smartphone compatibility should be a given. Driving a car while using the phone is extremely dangerous, so having it linked with voice commands can let you receive calls and change music without danger.
By using Bluetooth, smartphone-compatible cars can let you play Spotify and other streaming services over the speakers. This lets you have your favorite albums and playlist lined up from your handheld device. Sophisticated noise-canceling technology will also be able to hone in on your voice commands, eliminating interference from road noise.
2. High-Quality Speakers
Contrary to popular belief, bigger stereo speakers do not equate to more power or quality. In fact, by matching a high-quality speaker to the right vehicle size you will get much clearer audio with more defined frequencies. This stops the music from sounding like a jumbled mess when played in the cabin.
Unfortunately, speakers fitted as standard in new cars are rarely high quality, even when given as premium upgrades. Aftermarket products are much better with higher build qualities. In older vehicles, the speakers have probably already seen their fair share of wear and tear.
3. In-Depth Tone Controls
Have you ever experienced the drive-by car that has bass thumping out of it? While the drivers may believe that they are impressing others, they are doing very little for the sound quality inside. In fact, without getting the right levels the sound is undoubtedly going to be awful.
If you have in-depth tone controls, you can fine-tune your sound system to best suit your car. There are a number of factors that can influence how you should set it, from the placement of speakers to the type of system you have. Even the mastering on the track can have an impact.
The best way to address this is to program a few EQ settings from the manual into the amplifier. It may even have inbuilt presets. If you want to add some power without sacrificing the sound, then lower the mid and treble and add a slight increase in the bass.
4. A High-Quality Amplifier
If you are not knowledgeable about the system in a car stereo, then go to a store and ask to hear speakers with and without an amplifier. This box works as the middle man between your sound files and the speakers. It will add power, boosting some frequencies and cutting out others.
All of this results in better sound and more power. You can even add a quality amplifier to poor factory speakers and find a huge improvement in sound. When they are coupled with good speakers, the difference will be massive.
5. The Right Subwoofer
A subwoofer is a device that covers the lower frequency spectrum. They can come in three sizes: 8, 10 and 12 inch. They're generally placed under the seats or in the trunk of the car.
Bigger subwoofers are not always better for the vehicle and its sound. Sometimes, two smaller subwoofers can also be better than one large one. Speak with a knowledgeable dealer and let them know your current specifications for advice on the best one.
6. Subwoofer Housing
Whereas middle and treble frequencies can be directed, bass tends to leak. This is why it is hard for the ears to distinguish where bass frequencies are emanating from. Have you ever heard of an ambulance with a bassy siren for example?
To stop your bass from bleeding into areas you don't want it, get the right casing for your subwoofer. The right size box can make a huge difference, preventing air leaks that will distort the sound and decrease performance. You can buy premade enclosures that will fit the right size and model for your subwoofer.
7. A Multi-Function Head Unit
The head unit is the central control system of your cars audio. It will process your music, along with navigation systems and incoming phone calls. Certain brands may have head units built in, but you can change many to better suit your needs.
Everyone will have their own tastes with ahead unit, it all depends on what you want. If you are looking to entertain others while driving, you may want DVD players and sophisticated infotainment systems. If you are more into music, then multiple input methods may be more important.
8. Digital to Analog Convertor
Digital to analog converters change the binary code into physical sound waves. If your smartphone is doing the job, it will probably have this built in and it will do a fairly decent job. However, like anything, the final product is only as good as what you are putting into it.
If you have paid for quality speakers, then start by using higher-quality audio files. You will get a notable increase in the quality. If you stream music, then paying for premium subscriptions usually gets you access to better files.
After this, get a better digital to analog convertor. If you connect the phone to an aftermarket stereo using a USB, then the stereo's DAC will be used anyway. Always check the quality of it when buying, even if it is integrated into other parts of the system.
Choosing Car Audio
When choosing car audio parts, set a budget. After this, speak to the experts. They will know configurations and models that work perfectly and get you the best deal possible.
If you are looking to modify your car even further, then
Top Line Tints & Audio should be your first stop. We provide both audio upgrades and tinting for your vehicle. Contact us here to discuss all your needs and upgrade your ride today.
