Posted to Accessories Articles 2009-05-07
What do I need for audio in my car?
Car audio is a luxury for some and a passion for others. The increasingly compact technology that makes incredibly clear car audio possible is constantly decreasing in price, making high-quality systems well within the price ranges of people who have only a casual interest in adding crystal-clear music to their commute. These systems are component-based and many individuals choose to mix and match manufacturers when installing their systems to get the best possible sound.
The head unit, predictably, is where car audio starts. Most people refer to head units simply as "car radios" though modern systems are much more. Usually most cars come equiped witha basic stock usit that needs to be replaced. The head unit in advanced systems usually does include an AM/FM tuner but is provided with many other features, as well. Options can include CD players, DVD players, Sirius or XM Radio, HD Radio and more. These devices interface with the entire system to allow the driver to control the audio output, the balancing of the sound between the different components and interface with devices such as CD changers. They quite often contain inputs for portable media players, allowing a driver to bring literally tens of thousands of songs along on a trip.
Multiple CD changers are frequently located in the trunk of the car. They can be preloaded with many CDs allowing the driver to switch between albums or tracks without physically touching any media while driving. Their features are usually controlled via the head unit and sometimes with a remote control.
Most car audio system's speakers are provided power via an amplifier. These amplifiers provide much more power than the head unit would on its own and allow the sound characteristics of high end speakers to be exploited to their maximum potential. They are usually mounted in a convenient, out of the way spot, such as the trunk or rear of the vehicle.
The subwoofer is probably the most distinctive element of modern car audio. This is the speaker that allows the car to rumble the air around it, spilling bass out onto the streets that can be heard above the noisiest traffic. In more conservative applications, it can provide rich, lush sound that can enable listeners to feel music as well as hear it.
Mobile video gets a bad rap due to the widely-held idea it's meant to entertain the driver. This is not the case. Most often, mobile video is provided for passengers in the back seats so that they can be entertained on long, less-than-thrilling excursions. It's a great way to keep children occupied in traffic jams or on road trips. Combined with good quality audio, it can turn a vehicle into a mobile theater.
Very high-end car audio systems installed professionally are nearly invisible to the driver. The components and wiring only reveal themselves in the form of superior sound.
Alpine CDA-9887
: CD, MP3, WMA, AAC Receiver IMPRINT head unit
Alpine iXA-W404
: Digital Media Station with iPod control
JVC KDAVX44
: A/V Control Receiver with 3.5-inch wide monitor
