Many hobbyists prefer “do-it-yourself” modifications on cars and such modifications have a long and colorful history. Similarly car-audio also has a history of similar modifications. Starting from four car audio component speakers all the way up to entire vans hobbyists have constructed systems of varying complexity.
The choices in selecting a car stereo car audio system are many. The one that fits your desires best is dependent upon what type of audiophile are you. Some systems feature a high power output to provide the capability to blast your eardrums. Others focus on a wider frequency range to make sound clearer and crsiper, which is more in line with someone whose tastes run towards the classical, but you are rock fan, then, by all means, go for the system that will rock your car as well !
Selecting the right car audio speakers is not rocket science. Most stereo systems have four component speaker outputs, whose output has two measurements, impedance and power. Impedance is measured in ohms, and the power is measured in watts. These specifications can be quite technically complicated, but for the normal user, it is a simple matter to match exactly the impedance of the speakers with the stereo output channel, and that the wattage of the speaker is equal to or greater than the stereo channel. If you do at least that, then you can enjoy your music !
Most consumers are content simply with driving the speakers from the internal amplifier of the car stereo, but for a louder, higher-fidelity system, you will want to purchase a separate amplifier. This amplifier will sit in between your stereo, amplify the signal further, and then output it to your speakers. If you go this route, you should follow the same rules for selecting car audio component speakers, only using the output specifications of the amplifier, instead of your stereo!
After you have outlined the specifications of the system you want, you must examine the layout of your car. Car audio component speakers come in many standard sizes - six inch diameter, for example - and unless you’re looking to do some serious modifications, you obviously need to order speakers of the proper dimensions! car audio amplifiers can be placed anywhere convenient, but keep in mind you will have to run wires to all the car speakers, as well as the stereo.
After you have decide on this you would be ready to install your system. The installation varies greatly from car to car but one common thing is to ensure that the car is off and the battery is disconnected at the time of installation. The car and the stereo both have manuals outlining the procedure of installation, and it is finally upto ones determination to install the system. Last but not the least amplifier wires should not be visible inside the car as some people are put off at the sight of it.
Most basic stereos have four outputs for car audio component speakers. Be sure the impedance on your speakers matches the stereo output channel exactly, and that the speaker’s wattage is equal or greater. Car stereo car audio speakers come in various shapes and sizes, and you should order speakers of proper dimensions. Keep in mind that you will have to run wires to all the speakers and the stereo. Before installing your car-audio system, be sure your car is turned off, and the battery disconnected. A final piece of advice - don’t run amplifier wires inside the car cab. It makes people nervous.