How To Choose The Perfect Car Audio System
With advancements in technology, car audio systems have evolved over time. The standard tape deck/radio combination has make way for exclusive multimedia systems with CD, DVD, television, and navigation systems. No matter what type of audio you choose it all boils down to sound quality, which depends on type of audio system, speakers, and the car's acoustic levels. Among the important factors to consider when you choose an audio system is the signal-to-noise-ratio and frequency response.
Signal-to-noise-ratio is the measurement of the strength of the signal to background noise. It is measured in decibels. A higher decibel level indicates a better signal. Most car CD players have a 100 decibel level. On the other hand, frequency response is the amount of audio including bass and treble gets reproduced. This is measured in Hertz where a wider range indicates better sound. CD players need a range of around 10 - 20 Hertz. A normal cassette player has a signal to noise ratio of up to 70 decibels, which is low when compared to a CD player, which means that the sound quality is degraded. The frequency ratio is also lower for a cassette players which is why CD players give a better sound quality than a cassette player.
Most car audio players are either radio tune with CD player/changers or a digital audio player. CD players include a range of in-dash players with a radio tuner and WMA/MP3 player. Another type is the in-dash CD receiver with multiple CD changer in another location of the vehicle. You also have portable CD players that can be connected to the in-dash audio unit. With so many options, it is important to consider carefully the type of audio system you need. The system must physically be able to fit easily in your vehicle. It should also blend with the dashboard and other electronics in the car. Some audio systems come in standard sizes that fit most cars. However, make sure that the one you choose does fit your car.
For crisper sound quality, digital audio car systems are always recommended. Most discs allow you to store up to 10 hours of music with other features such as random shuffling and repeat. However, the only drawback is that the changer is located elsewhere and plays limited file formats. Once you choose a digital audio car system the next step is the car speakers. This includes the amplifier and speaker units. The amplifier powers the speakers to produce quality sound. You have a choice of 4-channel amplifiers or 2-channel amplifiers. A 2-channel amplifier will support two speakers. You also have a choice of speakers and supplement the sound with tweeters and subwoofers to provide better sound effects to suit your personal tastes. Just make sure that speaker design and type are the first things you consider before you go ahead and enhance your system. This will include your choice of midrange, subwoofers, and tweeters. It would be prudent to read a few reviews and feedback from other customers prior to choosing a system.