An Introduction to Car Audio System Design, Stereo Imaging and Staging

An Introduction to Car Audio System Design, Stereo Imaging and Staging

Although many car audio enthusiasts already have a good understanding of how sound is produced, no technical manual should start without covering the basics of its subject matter. Writers sometimes wrongly assume that the reader will already know quite a lot about the subject and so they skip the basics. Because of this, some may find it difficult to understand the reasons for installing speakers in particular positions in the car, for example, or why a woofer operates best in a particular size and type of enclosure. Most people find it embarrassing to admit that they do not understand something which they assume everybody else knows. The truth is that there are probably several other people in the same group who would like to ask the same question.

Here I will outline the basics of the subject and briefly discuss how these basics apply to the world of car audio. It is not supposed to be a complete guide to sound because we don't want to send you to sleep! If you would like to know more about sound and the principles of hi-fi sound reproduction, there are many good books on the subject.

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So what is sound?

Sound is caused by the movement of air. If a large wooden panel is vibrating, the air next to it is pushed away. If the vibration is slow then the air just moves out of the way, but as the rate of vibration increases to between a few tens and a few tens of thousands of excursions per second, the air cannot move out of the way fast enough and therefore compresses as the panel pushes it away. The air's natural elasticity comes into play. The particles of air against the panel are pushed against the next particles, which push against the next ones and so on, creating a 'pressure wave'. As the panel returns to its starting position, the air becomes less dense as it fills the void in front of the panel.

The rate at which 'pressure waves' are produced is called the 'frequency' and is measured in 'cycles per second'. Instead of 'cycles per second' we usually describe frequency in terms of Hertz (1 cps = 1 Hz). Imagine a bath full of water. If you put your hand in the water and move it slowly backwards and forwards, not much happens - the water simply slips around the sides of your hand. But if you move your hand very fast, the water doesn't have time to move out of the way and you create a wave in the bath. Soon the water is flowing over the edges of the bath and soaking the carpet. If you used something larger than your hand to move the water, such as a dinner plate, you could cause the water to overflow without moving your hand as fast as before. Air reacts in much the same way. Big objects and small objects can generate pressure waves and therefore sound, but a small object must move quicker to cause the air in front of it (and behind it) to be compressed.

You are probably one step ahead of me by now, but this is why we find tiny tweeters and very large woofers. All sizes of speakers can produce sound, and the reasons why tweeters are small and woofers are big has much to do with the size of the pressure wave they are trying to reproduce and the weight and characteristics of the moving 'panel' - which in the case of a speaker is usually a cone, a dome or occasionally a flat diaphragm. To reproduce high frequencies, the cone or dome needs to move very fast. The smaller and lighter it is, the easier it is for the amplifier to control it. We'll come back to this later. First we need to understand a little more about sound itself.

Pressure Waves

Pressure waves of a sound travel at a fixed speed of around 1100 feet per second (actually, air temperature affects the exact speed but we don't need to worry too much about that). If we know the frequency (the number of waves per second), we can calculate the distance between corresponding points on successive waves - in other words, we can measure the length of a wave, or the 'wavelength'. A sound that has a frequency of 1100Hz has a wavelength of one foot. A sound of 2200Hz will have a wavelength of six inches, and a sound with a frequency of 550Hz will have a wavelength of two feet.

The notes of the musical scale simply represent sounds at certain frequencies. Middle A on a piano is 440Hz for example (a wavelength of 2ft 6in). In the case of a church pipe organ or electronic synthesiser, it may be possible to play an A which is four octaves below middle A. This has a very low main or 'fundamental' frequency (additional frequencies or 'harmonics' will be added naturally, which gives each instrument its own individual tonal character) of 27.5Hz, a wavelength of around 40 feet! At literally the other end of the scale, an A played three octaves above middle A has a frequency of around 3500Hz and a wavelength of just 3.75 inches.

The size of the musical instrument (and loudspeaker) tends to suggest the size of the wavelength it's designed to produce. The soundboard of a piano and the large pipes of a church organ are capable of producing large wavelengths, which means lower frequencies. Similarly, a 12-inch diameter subwoofer is designed to give low bass. If we ignore for a moment the mechanical limitations, there is nothing to stop a good 6 inch mid-woofer from reproducing very low frequencies. It can move at the required cycles per second, but its size means that it can only displace a certain amount of air during each cycle. It may produce very low frequencies, but only at very low output levels. This takes us back to the analogy of the hand and the dinner plate in the bath full of water. The surface area of a 12-inch subwoofer is like a dinner plate, able to move enough air in one cycle to produce a pressure wave capable of rattling the windows in the house across the road!

Imaging and Phase... creating the illusion of reality

When we install a hi-fi system in the home or in the car, we are attempting to reproduce a very complex pattern of sound waves within an environment that is quite different to the one in which the instruments and vocals were recorded. We are trying to recreate not only the sounds of the various instruments and singers accurately but also their positions on the 'sound stage'. This is often called 'imaging' or 'stage image'. It may also be described as 'staging', but in car audio this word is generally used to describe the position of the stage itself (whether it appears to be in front of the listeners or behind them), rather than the position of the performers on the stage.

If we listened to and recorded the sound of a single flute in our living room, for example, and then replayed it via a single full-range speaker positioned in exactly the same place as the flautist, there is a good chance (if the recording equipment and hi-fi system is of a good enough quality) that it will sound more or less identical. The reverberation characteristics of the room will be the same and, since we are using only one speaker instead of trying to artificially recreate the position of the flautist in the room by using stereo techniques, the instrument should appear to be in exactly the right place.

If we had a complete orchestra in our living room and wanted to copy what we did with the single flute, we would need to use a multi-channel recorder, several channels of amplification and however many speakers it took, each arranged in exactly the right place for each instrument. Having witnessed this done at a hi-fi show in Paris some years ago, I can tell you that it can sound very realistic. The problem is that it is not currently feasible to do this in most homes, and certainly not in a car, which is why we have... yep, good old stereo.

Stereo aims to recreate the exact positions of the various instruments by using only a single pair of loudspeakers, and it achieves this mostly by increasing the level of a particular instrument in one of the channels relative to the other channel. Only the levels are different - the wavelengths from both the left and right channels will be identical in every other way. They are said to be 'in phase'. This means that if you could somehow freeze the sound and see the wavelengths emanating from the two speakers, both wavelengths would be at the same point in their cycle.

When sound is recorded for stereo reproduction, it is assumed that the listener will be positioned equidistant between the two loudspeakers. Of course this is rarely the case in a car, unless you happen to drive a McLaren F1. We compensate for not being seated central to the loudspeakers by adjusting the balance control on the CD player, which increases the volume level on one side relative to the other. This only corrects the stereo image up to a point, because we are still physically closer to one speaker than the other, and adjusting the balance control has no effect over the phase and timing of the signal reaching our ears.

If we are sitting in the front of the car, close to the left-side speaker, then we will hear the sound from that speaker very slightly earlier than the sound from the speaker on the right, and from those speakers behind us. It is also likely that in the upper frequencies, where the wavelengths are very short, the sound we hear through our left and right ears may be slightly 'out of phase'. These timing and phase distortions confuse the brain and can destroy the stereo effect. When this happens, you hear most of the sound is coming from the speaker closest to you, instead of from an imaginary stage across the windscreen - the stereo trick fails to work.

Our earlier analogy with water may also help us to understand what is meant by sound being 'in phase' and 'out of phase'. Imagine that you start a gentle wave from one end of the bath. If you use both hands to start two waves at exactly the same time, the peaks of the waves will occur at exactly the same point and the waves could be said to be 'in phase'. Now start a gentle wave from the other end of the bath. What happens when the two waves meet? Both waves clash and effectively cancel each other out. Now imagine speakers at the front and rear of a vehicle, each producing sound pressure waves. These mix and create some very complex alterations to the sound. As the pressure waves meet, the air may be pushed stronger in the same direction in which it was already travelling (so we get additions which can lead to peaks in the frequency response), or one pressure wave may compress against another travelling in the opposite direction. In the latter case, if the two waves are identical in terms of frequency and pressure and are exactly half a wavelength out of phase, they will cancel themselves out completely, leaving silence.

Usually the two sound patterns are so complex that they will only partially cancel, but relatively pure tones of long wavelengths and high pressure are more likely to noticeably cancel. The lower the frequencies being produced and the more loudspeakers there are reproducing that range of frequencies, the more likely it is that phase cancellation will occur. If speakers are wired with the + and - terminals reversed on one speaker, the speakers are placed 180 degrees (half a wavelength) 'out of phase'. In theory they should cancel themselves out, but in practice the bass region suffers most cancellation and the remainder of the sound becomes confused, with little or no central image.

Speaker placement... for those without a McLaren F1

By installing many speakers inside a vehicle, we create a very complex mix of pressure waves which can cause problems with the overall sound. This does not necessarily mean that it is a bad thing to install a large number of speakers. We may want to split the frequency range into small portions - sub-bass, bass, mid-bass, midrange, upper midrange, high frequencies and ultra-high frequencies - so that each range has a pair of speakers dedicated to it. Because of the limitations of loudspeakers, this might be a good idea if we are looking for absolute sonic fidelity. Of course space in a vehicle is limited and so we tend to install fewer speakers, usually covering the sub-bass, mid-bass, midrange and upper frequencies. This can give good reproduction of the tonal qualities of the various instruments and voices but there are still the problems of phase, 'time alignment' and 'off-axis' performance to consider.

We should generally try to avoid reproducing the same frequencies from speakers positioned at different distances from the listeners. For example, if we have a pair of 6-inch speakers producing mid-bass at the front of the vehicle, we should avoid having another pair of speakers reproducing exactly the same range of frequencies from the rear shelf. The colliding pressure waves will cause additions and subtractions, according to the phase of each wave, at the point where they meet. Frequency peaks and troughs could be adjusted with a third-octave equaliser, and the timing of the sound from each speaker could be adjusted using a 'time alignment' digital signal processor, but there is no practical way of compensating for the phase distortions. It is much more sensible to avoid the problems from the start, as much as possible.

When deciding where to position speakers, especially midrange and tweeters, try to install them so that the left and right speakers of each matched pair are equidistant from the listeners. This is often very difficult to achieve of course, but do the best you can. The footwell positions often work well for midrange speakers and sometimes tweeters too. If you decide to mount the tweeters higher, try if possible to mount them in a position which is half the distance to the midrange speaker - there is some evidence to suggest that placing the mids and tweeters exactly 180 degrees apart can improve stereo imaging.

Larger bass speakers can often be installed in the doors without too much affect on imaging, if you make sure that the crossover point is set so that their output does not overlap the frequency range of the midrange speakers too much. The subwoofer, or subwoofers, usually have to be installed in the rear of the vehicle because of their size. Take care when choosing the slope and setting the crossover point on the channel(s) feeding these speakers. With a 6dB per octave 'low-pass' filter (a filter which only passes frequencies below a certain 'crossover point') set to 100Hz, the output at 200Hz will only be 6dB lower, and since subwoofers tend to be driven loud, the pressure waves created in the middle frequency region will probably be strong enough to interact with the speakers at the front of the vehicle. It is generally wise to choose a 12dB or 18dB slope for subwoofers.

Installing full-range speakers in the rear shelf, or in the rear doors, often confuses the stereo image at the front of the car because the same sounds are coming from more than one source and this is unnatural. If you need to install speakers here to provide 'rear ambience' or a 'double front stage' because you often carry passengers in the rear seats, adjust the front/rear fader control on the CD player so that the front speakers are considerably louder than the rear speakers when listening from the driver's seat.

You may still find that the stereo imaging at the front of the car is confused. If this is the case, it is worth experimenting by reversing the +/- connections to all the full-range speakers at the rear, putting them 180 degrees 'out of phase' with those in the front. It may sound crazy but sometimes works well. Always ensure that you reverse the connections on both speakers in a pair.

In an ideal situation, all the sound at all the various frequencies should start out from exactly the same place. A speaker system which attempts to provide this is often described as a 'single point source' because the various drive units are physically aligned so that, in theory at least, the sound will be 'in phase' and 'time aligned' across the entire frequency spectrum. What usually occurs in a vehicle, however, is that speakers are positioned some way apart and at different angles relative to the driver and passengers. A speaker that is pointed directly at the listener is said to be 'on axis', while a speaker installed low down in the door next to the driver is described as being 'off-axis'. A speaker's output characteristics alter when it is listened to 'off axis'. Its frequency response is affected, and phase changes may also occur. It is important to know this and experiment, where possible, by altering the mounting angle of the speaker to achieve the best results.

Shake, Rattle and... Why materials resonate

One thing we want to avoid in a car audio system is any panels (such as the metal panels of the vehicle itself) that resonate, that is, vibrate because of the movement of air within the enclosed space of a car. It's a bad thing because these panels will produce a sound of their own or, in the case of the walls of a bass enclosure, if they're not rigid then we'll lose some of the power and definition from the low frequencies.

Musical instruments which produce sound naturally (not electronically) do so by either causing something to resonate - such as guitar and piano strings or the skins and metallic surfaces of a drum kit etc. - or by directly moving the air, as in the case of wind and brass instruments. Every material has a particular 'resonant frequency' - this is the frequency at which the material will vibrate or resonate most freely - and this, together with the size of the resonating object and many other factors, contributes to the sound which an object will produce if it is sufficiently excited.

Of course something very dense and rigid like a brick is less likely to be made to resonate than a guitar string or a thin piece of wood. Brick is a much less efficient resonator than wood. Sometimes this can be useful, especially when building a bass enclosure where we need the sides to be very rigid and acoustically 'dead' so that it doesn't resonate, since this would add some of its own sonic character (or 'coloration') to the bass sound we are trying to reproduce.

Unfortunately, brick-built bass cabinets in cars haven't really caught on, and more practical alternatives had to be developed for making wooden enclosures and the metal parts of the car less resonant. Good quality particle board (MDF) is especially dense and provides a good starting point, and this can be treated, if necessary, with sound deadening sheet or a spray treatment. In the case of sound deadening sheet, this bonds an acoustically 'dead' material to the more easily excited panel, such as the vehicle's metal inner side panel, door panel or inner boot (trunk). The sheet helps to absorb panel resonance because its own resonant frequency is very low, so the resonance occurs at a much lower frequency and becomes less noticeable. In the case of NoiseKiller, a spray treatment developed by Swedish company Audioform, the resonance absorbed by the material is not simply frequency shifted. Instead, it is transformed into a tiny amount of heat. The manufacturer claims that the material produces absolutely no sound of its own - in other words, the panel resonance is completely eliminated.

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Tips For the Perfect Car Stereo System

Tips For the Perfect Car Stereo System

If you're wanting to install a new stereo system in your car, you should first do your homework.
For instance, you should take the location of the speakers into consideration as well as the power and sound. You should plan for your stereo system to fit your own specific needs. Is bass your greatest concern? What about the loudness? Do you want your stereo to "pound" and "shake" your car? No matter what you're looking for, here are some car stereo tips:

-You should place your speakers in various places around your car in order to find the perfect location. The location that you place both your left and right speakers will determine the quality of the sound that you hear. Test them in different places around your car before determining their permanent placement.

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-Make sure that you place and connect your cables flawlessly. The way you connect them will play an important role of the sound quality. When choosing your amplifier, keep in mind that they're not all created equally. Ask employees at local car audio stores what they would advise for your car.

-You should also consider using equipment to stop vibration. You don't want the metal panels to become part of your audio system. Dynamat is a good tool to use for noise and sound control.

-It's also important for you to build the perfect subwoofer and enclosure for your car stereo system. There are empty enclosure boxes and boxed subwoofers for you to choose from. You should consult your local car audio dealers for advice. You can also experiment with different types and sizes of enclosures to find out what sounds the best for your car.

-Not only should you want your car stereo system to sound good, but you should want it to look good as well. Use colors that look well with your car interior.

If you follow these car stereo tips, your system should have perfect sound and quality.

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Car Stereo Line Output Converter

Car Stereo Line Output Converter

Line output converter can be defined as a small device that converts high-voltage speaker-level signals to preamp-level signals; which is acceptable to an amp. If u want to connect an amp to your car stereo which doesn't have a speaker level inputs then it means you need a line output converter to have a preamp outputs. So you can connect your receiver to an amp by converting your receiver's speaker output into preamp-level signals. It consists of a transformer and (10 to 20 watts) a high-voltage resistor and connects to amp by using RCA patch cable. The amplifier in the head unit is being loaded by the resistor. It has also an adjustable gain feature to pull output.

Most of the line output converters have wire to ground the transformer. When the head unit is "on" the voltage on the output speaker wires, is almost half of the DC battery and changes rapidly when it is "on". Whereas, when the unit is "off", the voltage is 0 volt DC. As we already said, that the head unit's outputs has a large quick increase in DC voltage when the head unit is turned on. The transformer will provide the variation of voltage between the two input terminals. Since the DC voltage increases at the same time on both the input terminals, then the rhythm of the DC is irrecoverable. There are different types of Line Output Converters available in the market but Gizmo Peripheral is remained the industry leader in high quality LOC's.

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There are simple Instructions for the line output converters which need to take in consideration. So connect the audio cable speaker's leads to the device from the car stereo. The line output converter then trims down all the inwards bound speakers' level audio signals until the outgoing signals get adjusted to the preamp inputs on the amplifier. An adaptor scosche performs many different applications. It accepts speaker level outputs and converts them to preamp level outputs. It has a fader control feature also that means; we can hook 2 channel amplifier or 4 channel amplifier easily and can not lose any fader control.

Adjustable line output converters helps to convert the radio speaker level output to the lower amplifier RCA level input. Installers use to convert their speaker level stereo to RCA levels with the help of Hi/low adaptors which hooks to an external car stereo amplifier. Hi/low converter with 2 channels and 4 channels are also available with or without adjustments. It is important to note that the match between your car stereo and amplifiers are the same. Adjustable hi/low converters allow to fine tune the hi/low device to match levels in the car and are the most popular in adjustable output converters. There are many adjustable output converters in 2 channels and 4 channels available. For example, Soundgate "LOC A" adjustable high performance Hi/Low adaptor features full DC isolation and handles 40 watts and Soungate "XR4", this performs dual functions such as to add an aftermarket receiver to a factory amplifier system or to add four channel amplifiers to a factory receiver. This feature can make adjustments on all four channels.

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Types of Car Stereo Speakers

Types of Car Stereo Speakers

For a proficient and good quality car audio systems, car stereo speakers play a vital role. They are exceptional in the sense that they are designed only for reproducing sound frequencies. The audio system of the car is judged by a number of specifications matching the core.

The first criterion that a buyer should consider is the frequency response. It should be higher and wider so that the function of capturing and reproducing the sound is performed in a much better way. In addition, a buyer should also consider the efficiency or sensitivity of the car stereo speakers, which decide how far the sound will travel.

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Focusing on the maximum power RMS, that is, the maximum power, which the speaker can produce continuously, is important if the system is to be played continuously.

Going for a component speaker will make the listening more thrilling since it gives a complete range and quality of sound inside the car. The power of them should be efficient enough not to diminish the riding power of the car. Not only this, while shopping for various types of speaker systems it is always a good idea to listen to each type all of them should sound a bit different from the other.

With the advancement in technology and the demand of music lovers, today, one can find many types of car stereo speakers. The automakers have designed various kinds of stereo systems, which could reproduce certain frequencies. The wider the frequency response of a speaker the larger sound signal the speaker can capture and reproduce. This can be explained with an example. To capture and reproduce treble high pitched frequencies a tweeter is the best. A sub woofer can only capture the low frequency, i.e. the bass.

Today, in market one can find a wide range of car stereo speakers. These are Multi Element speakers a.k.a coaxial speakers, Midbass or Midrange speakers, Component speakers and Sub Woofers.

Multi Element or coaxial speakers consist of two types speakers i.e., woofers and tweeters that are constructed into one. The woofer, which is shaped as a large cone, generates low range frequencies, on the other hand, there are three tweeters in the form of three small cones that handle the higher pitched frequencies.

Midrange speakers are those systems that are designed to capture and reproduce the middle and sometimes some low bass frequencies. A midrange speaker is generally smaller than a woofer and can reproduce frequency range of approximately 300 to 5000 hertz. These types are fitted in the side or the door panels of the cars.

Component speakers can reproduce high pitched frequencies. These kinds of speakers contain tweeters and horn loaded compression drivers. If a tweeter comes above 25 kilo hertz then it is called a super tweeter.

Another of the car stereo speakers is the sub woofer, which is capable of reproducing the lowest frequencies. The sub woofers have the capability of reproducing sound of the highest quality without reducing too much audio signal off it.

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Car Stereo Repair

Car Stereo Repair

Have you ever experienced problems with getting your car speakers to work? Since I think many of us car owners have experienced this problem, I will provide this description of how to diagnose the problem of silent speakers and also give you some hints on how to fix it. Whether you are familiar with car stereo repair or not, this might help you. If it doesn't, contact a dealer who can do an auto stereo repair or search for vehicle stereo repair help online. If your stereo speakers don't work, then try

checking the speakers to see if they are disconnected checking all fuses that are related to the auto speakers tightening the butt connectors to the speakers replacing all or some of the butt connectors

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If your speakers are still not working, I recommend that you test the auto speakers that don't work directly:

Disconnect each speaker that doesn't work from the car's wires and do the test below, doing one at a time. Use a 9v battery and connect its leads to each auto speaker to be tested for a short moment. Does the speaker have movement? Do you hear the sound usually known as a 'pop' or thump?

If your answers to the questions above are 'yes', your speaker will probably be able to make sound and it is likely to work.

This speaker direct test has two possible results: Either the speaker is not able to make sound or it is. If the first is the case, your speaker are dead and you must replace it. If the latter is the case, you should

run new speaker wires and rewire perform the 'popper' tests to get the polarity correct as described above

Now, if this problem still persists you can at least rest assure that the reason is not your speaker. The reason is probably one of the following: Either it is caused by

problems in the deck itself or the connections from the deck.

In this case I recommend that you contact a vehicle stereo repair shop or do a search online to get information about how to fix these problems.

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Stereo Speakers

Stereo Speakers

Stereo speakers are used to enhance the audio system in cars. They are usually described as distinctive in view, since they are used for duplicating audio frequencies. By and large, they are regarded as a very crucial component that constitutes an excellent stereo system.

More often than not, stereo speakers can be classified into two types -- component speakers and full range speakers. Both encompass a number of pluses and minuses. Basically, full range speakers come in different sizes, made up of the tweeter, woofer and super tweeter. However, if you desire the best possible audio quality, then component speakers are the best choice.

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You need to think over several factors to get the sound quality that you desire before purchasing stereo speakers. Apart from the type of speaker, other vital factors to consider are the speaker's efficiency, frequency response and maximum power. These three things are interrelated with each other, and the absence of one may affect the entire sound frequency. The speaker's frequency response must be superior and broader to achieve improved sound control and simulation. The efficiency of the speaker should also be taken into account. Keep in mind that the greater its efficiency, the better the result. Last but not least, maximum power must also be assessed for a long-lasting quality audio sound.

All in all, you should be careful in choosing a stereo speaker. It is suggested that you test out the speaker before f buying it. Stereo speakers come in a variety of brands and features.

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Stereo Receivers

Stereo Receivers

Since stereo receivers are sold on and offline there are a few considerations to be made before you settle for a home theater or stereo model. If good surround sound, and movies is what you are looking for, then the home theater is the model for you. If lacking space,then the stereo receiver is the model you should go for, especially if you need it for music.

One most important thing to consider among all else if the kind of power the stereo receiver will need. You don't want it to blow up open you sooner than you bought it. The power must also be compatible to that of the speakers. All this will depend on speaker's sensitivity. The less the sensitivity the more the power you will require. The gadgets will come with all these specifications and its all up to you to be keen as far as these specifications are concerned.

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Considering you need more detailed and dynamic sound, a receiver with higher wattage will offer exactly that. DRA-37 is the latest model of home theater series that will give you all you are looking for in terms of performance and delivery. Its set up features are easy to us and give you a lot of functions to select from.It comes at a very considerable price that is affordable to you.

What makes this stereo receiver superb is its hi-tech features like 2 channels x 50 watts, Stable of 4 ohms, remote ports serial IR, record output selector, Ready XM Radio with separate select and play antenna and an iPod port for ASD-1R D-dock that is optional. You want want to try the stereo receiver, don't you?

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Why You May Need to Install an Alpine Car Stereo

Why You May Need to Install an Alpine Car Stereo

There are various categories of car stereos and they include car receivers, in dash DVD receivers, in dash navigation receivers, sound processors and bluetooth kits for aftermarket stereos. There is also a selection of car receivers and they are CD, DVD, digital media, navigation and cassette receivers. They come with built in amplifiers to give you the best sounds. Their audio controls are like no other and their state of the art formation will amaze anybody. One great product to acquire is the alpine CDE 9872. If all this is too technical for you, you do not have to worry. Web sites are a great way to read and view what you want but above that, they have product expert advisers who will guide you to make the correct choice of alpine car stereo.

Alpine in dash DVD receivers come with in built screens and they are widely available and affordable. One can connect amplifiers, video sources and more. Some of the most recommended are alpine IVA W205, alpine IVA D106 and alpine IVA W105. There are very many others to choose from. When selecting alpine car stereo, you need to be aware of the products available. In their sites, they make a list of all the products that are out of stock. They also have new products which are worth looking at. They also tell you about a product that will be in the market soon. All this information comes in handy for a consumer because it facilitates the making of purchasing decisions. Compare prices and see which brands have low prices. Low prices do not mean the best.

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Far from the truth, low prices are questionable. High prices would make you question the quality and features. If you desire a variety of features in a car stereo, you might have to pay more. What you are looking for is a compromise. Prices must be fair for any purchase. It is good to look at stereos that come with offers. Discounts go along way in saving some money. If you want an alpine car stereo that will guide you all the way, get an alpine in dash GPS navigator. The one that is in stock is the alpine IVA W205 navigation package. With touchscreen control, it will deliver a whole new stereo experience to your car. You must also read reviews about such products and hear what others say. If a stereo is not what it is advertised to be, you will know.

If you are installing a new alpine car stereo, going to the car stereo guide will be helpful. There, you will be shown the tools you need. These tools include din tools, screwdrivers, wire stripper, electrical tape, soldering iron, wire cutters and a heat gun. You are graphically shown how to remove your old car stereo and shown how the tools for that job work. While being told what to do, you are guided on what not to do. You will also be guided on installing the new stereo. If you need to print out these guidelines, you are more than welcomed to do it. When you install the alpine car stereo you will start a new chapter of quality entertainment. Your car will never be the same again. You are going to feel even better about your car.

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Double Din Car Stereo - Your Ultimate Automobile Multimedia Experience

Double Din Car Stereo - Your Ultimate Automobile Multimedia Experience

Most widely sold car audio system brand names are also producing double din car stereo. Any double din car audio system has your un-ordinary in dash panel which also has every feature that you can think of.

Most brands that manufacture car audio components and receivers would also have dual din car audios such as Alpine, JVC, Kenwood, and Panasonic. Consider getting digital technology incorporated in your car stereo system within dash DVD player, iPod and iPhone compatibility, and Bluetooth hands-free connections.

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If you want to shop for some free quotes for car audio, you may use google to search or Amazon to look for your possible options under the most reliable brands for car audio systems. If you cannot find the car sound system that you are looking for, you can easily give your preferred car stereo manufacturer the features that you need.

Most double din car stereo would have CD/DVD playback, am/fm radio, USB slots which can read USB device upon plugging and even built in hard drive support allowing you to play music from your usual source without the pain of having to burn music on CDs or DVDs.

It is amazing to see some double din car systems that are touch screen. Most are already digitally ready with all the digital features like wireless remote, Bluetooth, and iPod and it's amazing to see some doul din car systems that are touch screen. Most are already digitally ready with all the digital features like wireless remote, Bluetooth, and iPod and iPhone support. It makes it possible for you to have GPS on your own car stereo's in-dash or you can simply watch movies on your double din car system panel.

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How to Upgrade Your Car Stereo to Support iPod, GPS and More Without Replacing Existing Head Unit

How to Upgrade Your Car Stereo to Support iPod, GPS and More Without Replacing Existing Head Unit

With so many options for devices that can be added to a car audio system emerging out there, it is almost impossible to keep up without having to upgrade your system every year, and even then there is always one more device out competing for your attention.

Kenwood seems to understand the quagmire and has come out with a controller that offers help in solving the issue with the Kenwood KOSV500. The KOSV500 is a multifunction device that offers support for the IPOD, Satellite radio, bluetooth, GPS navigation systems, TV tuner, backup camera and more.

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What makes this system unique and appealing is that you don't have to replace the head unit to be able to support all these add-ons. The controller is installed as a separate device into your existing system and it provides all the inputs for the desired add-ons. The major advantage here is that you are able to accommodate more devices in one shot than any head unit out there could accommodate by itself.

Imagine not just being able to play your IPOD on your stereo, but also having the ability to play video from the IPOD as well, if you already have a video screen in your vehicle. That's right the KOSV500 allows you to play video from an external device. It also comes with a Bluetooth input,which allows you to plug and operate your cell phone from your car stereo. This is a great plus given that fact that several states now have no-cell-phone-use while driving laws.

If you have a satellite radio receiver, you are in luck, it has an input for it; want to add a back up camera, no problem, it comes with an input for a backup camera as well.

The KOSV500 system will even enhance the sound of your existing speakers with a built-in amp and equalizer. It is quite possible that if you are a car audio enthusiast, you already have a great sounding system, but it's nice to know that you have the added power at your disposal for whenever the need arises.

As you can tell Kenwood took the dilemma that we all face with keeping up with the array of latest car audio and video devices out there to heart when designing the KOSV500 and made it all possible.

I am certain that one day soon most Car Audio and Video systems will come with all these capabilities built-in, but for now the KOSV500 offers a great alternative to being able to accommodate all these add-ons.

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Top Car Stereo Speaker Tips You Can't Afford to Ignore!

Top Car Stereo Speaker Tips You Can't Afford to Ignore!

It can be real easy to be fascinated by a car stereo speaker at an expo or convention. The speakers are the first things we notice at a convention because of the beautiful sound that new speakers produce. You can find them in different sizes, shapes, and colors.

It can be very tempting to purchase new stereo speakers. I have noticed the louder they are, the greater they sound. All speakers have their own specialized qualities, intended uses, and price ranges. You want to spend some time investigating all of the speakers you are reviewing. There are some speakers that may be better in certain aspects than other speakers. You will only know what truly sounds the best by listening and investigating them yourself.

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These speakers are different sizes and wattages. This is important to know because you could have a few issues when you try to install all of your equipment in your vehicle. Before you buy any new accessories, you need to know the specs of your system.

In addition, there are many amplifiers for sale in the market today. You need to know how the car speakers you are considering compare to the other speakers. You also need to know what speakers are compatible with specific amplifiers. You want to make sure that the speakers you buy go hand in hand with the amplifier you have or will buy. This will help you to not strain your system, and it gives you the maximum performance.

A lot of people forget about style, but this is also important. The style of speakers you choose also needs to work well in conjunction with the other components of your system. If you decide to install different style speakers in your vehicle, you will need to determine what changes you will need to make to your system to accommodate your new speakers.

Suitability of the speakers is also an important issue when selecting your new equipment. Ultimately, the most important aspect of the speakers is the sound they produce. Make sure your speakers sound great before you start thinking about all of the features of the stereo speakers.

Brand names are also important in the speaker selection process. It is a fact that some amplifiers are much better than other amplifiers. The best way to figure out the best amplifiers is to read magazines, check the Internet, talk to car enthusiasts, read reviews, and listen to the speakers yourself. Don't take any chances on buying any products. Do some research and see what are the best products today.

Do some price checking for your favorite car stereo speaker choices. Prices can change a lot between different stores, and you do not want to pay anything more than necessary to get the sound you want.

Copyright S. M. vaidya

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How to Pick Speakers For Your Car Stereo

How to Pick Speakers For Your Car Stereo

When setting up a car audio system, picking the right set of speakers is critical. To get the kind of sound you want, you have to get the right speakers. If you make the wrong decision, you will end up regretting it for a long time. Here is a proven method for finding the right set of speakers the first time around.

The first thing you need to do is to research what size speakers will fit your car. Different cars will take different size speakers. To quickly and effortlessly do this research, check out some websites with this information, such as Crutchfield or Onlinecarstereo.

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Once you figure out what size you need, the next step is to choose a brand. You should make a trip to the local car audio store and listen to several brands of speakers. Make sure you play the music you like, and have the settings adjusted the way you will have them. Talk about your different options with the people working at the store, and ask about what is popular and why. Of course, check out forums on the internet to gain information and ask questions.

After picking a brand, you should choose between full range speakers and component speakers. A full-range speaker is a speaker that contains the tweeter and the woofer and possibly some additional components. On the other hand, component speakers break up these different elements. Again, you should research your options at the store and online to narrow down your decisions.

When you are ready to purchase your speakers, you should spend some time looking for a bargain. There are many websites online where you can find good deals, such as TigerDirect, Newegg, and eBay. Once you get a good price quote, take that to all the competitors, including your local shop, and try to get them to undercut it. When no one is willing to go lower than your latest offer, then you know you have a good deal.

Finally, you should choose whether or not you want to include a subwoofer with your system. Depending on the kind of music you listen to, you may or may not want a subwoofer. Also, while the size of the subwoofer is important, you should also focus on its power threshold and other features. Size is not always indicative of quality or power. A good mid-size mid-range sub is the safest bet and will sound the best over time.

Now that you know each and every step to buying a great set of speakers, get out there and start shopping!

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Theft Claim - Someone Stole My Car Stereo and the Insurance Declined Payment

Theft Claim - Someone Stole My Car Stereo and the Insurance Declined Payment

A theft claim can give big headache. Car stereo claims are very difficult to dispute. Most insurance companies require you to file a police report, and guess what? Most police departments will not come to the scene to write a report unless there is reasonable suspicion of who stole your stereo.

To make matters worse, most auto insurance polices will exclude and theft claim for personal property. You would have to make a claim against your home owners or renters insurance to get coverage for your personal property. So anything in your vehicle that was stolen, not attached to the car, will be excluded unless you have one of those polices.

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Even if you make a claim against your renters or homeowners, you will be subject to a deductible on those policies. Usually those policies have high deductibles and the insurance company will not pay for any of your personal items. Make sure your homeowners or renter's policy has low deductible amounts before filing a claim.

But how can you document a stereo theft claim and get compensated for your claim? First, you need to file a "walk in" police report. This can be complicated since the police will not come out.
Once you have a police report documenting your stereo theft claim, then you need to file a claim with your insurance company. Your stereo claim will not be covered unless you have comprehensive coverage for a theft claim. Also your stereo must be worth more than your deductible. For example, if your stereo is worth ,000 and your deductible is 0, then you will get paid 0 (,000 - 0). However, if your stereo
system is worth 0 and your deductible remains 0, then no payment will be
made to you.

The real issue will be that the insurance company will only owe you the actual cash value of the stereo system. But what is actual cash value? It is the value of your stereo minus its depreciation. You will soon learn that insurance companies depreciate electronics and systems like this one very heavily. They sometimes will take up to 40% of is value per year (not a set rule and it varies in every state and every insurance company).

This means that your theft claim could be worth if your stereo is three years old. There has been a lot of dispute and litigation over this subject. Insureds argument is that their stereo cannot be worth or close to it because it still provided an important use to them (there is inherent value). However, most stereo theft claims are smaller amounts for attorneys to litigate and try to change the insurance approach.

You can protect your interest by documenting what kind of equipment you had. Receipts of purchase would be great evidence. If you do not have the receipt, then provide photographs, the owner's manual, the name and number of the person that installed the stereo, the box, or anything else that
could validate your ownership over the your equipment.

One thing you should never do. I mean this. Do not try to inflate your claim. This is considered fraud. If you get caught with an intentional misrepresentation as of to the value of the stereo, you will lose all your rights under the policy. The insurance company can turn you into the police and will put you in the "black book". You will have a very hard time finding any kind of insurance. Do not risk it.

So the best way to handle your car stereo theft claim is to:

1. Get a police report, even if it is a walk in report,

2. File a claim if you carry comprehensive coverage.

3 collect as much information about your
equipment.

4. Make sure the insurance company will not take excessive amounts of depreciation, and

5. Do not inflate the claim.

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How Custom Car Stereo Systems Can Enhance Your Sound

How Custom Car Stereo Systems Can Enhance Your Sound

Custom car stereo systems are very vital in ensuring that your entertainment system stays above the rest. You need efficiency and quality from your audio systems and it is therefore necessary to know what these systems are. The source of your entertainment lies in your custom car stereo systems. You can get CD/DVD players, MP3 players and others. All of these components make up the head unit and they all function together to produce the best sounds. If one system is not functioning, it will reflect on the quality of sound the stereo produces and it might not be the sound of your liking. Speakers are the second most important components and they can prove hectic to install but with the right guidelines, you can have the best systems installed to enhance your work.

Amplifiers will enhance your sound and give you more volume. You should be careful while connecting wires to make sure you get the best out of your customized amplifiers. Those low frequencies can be achieved by having customized subwoofers. If properly fitted under the seats and the storage area, they are a good source of bass. They usually need so much power to function than any other system. Certain processors like equalizers and rear speakers may not be necessary if your system is designed in the right way, however certain people like to get them just to enhance their styles and it will not hurt to get them if you are willing to spend the money.

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While getting the systems, you must consider room for future upgrades and you might not require to invest everything on them but over a period of time. Consider brands you would like to have. Alpine, Infinity, Sony, Kenwood and others are among the most popular brands. They might have quality but are a bit more expensive. Smaller brands may also have good qualities and low prices. They however do not always have a superior quality. You must also consider the kinds of stores you are buying from. You need to purchase from a company that is reputable and registered. Another vital aspect to consider is the customer service, terms and conditions of the company. You must have done some survey and research of goods putting you at an advantage because you know what to expect.

Custom car stereo systems need to be installed in a professional manner although you do not always need a professional. You can read through manuals and get to know what it takes. You could also get guides from the internet on step by step instructions of what to do. If you are better suited observing, DVDs are available and you really have no excuse not to install for yourself. If however you need someone to come and do the job quickly for you, get people with the right credentials. There are many mediocre installers who do not know the first thing about proper installation. When you have your custom car stereo system you are confident that it will serve you for along time and the only thing remaining is to enjoy every minute of it.

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Car Stereo System and Its Installation

Car Stereo System and Its Installation

You might have an excellent audio system at your home on which you listen to and enjoy your favorite music. But the stereo system in your car does not give your ears the same pleasure as the system present at your home. What if you get the same quality of sound from your car stereo system? Yes it's possible. Just follow some simple steps properly that are required for its installation in your car and transform its sound system from a tiny radio into a splendid bass- boosting music machine.

The first and the foremost thing that can actually give superb quality experience of sound even in your car is the selection of a good system. Along with a it, the accessories that are required should also complement the system in its performance. So the first point comes of how to select it.

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A wide variety of car stereo systems manufactured by different brands like Pioneer, Sony, Samsung, iPod, etc. are available in the market. But first of all decide your budget limit and once you have done that, then select from a wide range of systems that fall into your budget limit. Look out for a car stereo system that along with having high decibels (dB) number provides other exciting features too. Some of the brands offer it; which can support various file formats like wav, Mpeg files, mp3 files etc. Moreover some system even have the USB port with which you can connect your iPod or pen drive and listen to your favorite track stored in them, instead of carrying a CD folder with you every time.

The accessories also play a very vital role in boosting up the performance of your system. So the accessories should be selected very carefully from a wide range that is available in the market.

Once you have selected a suitable system along with other accessories for your car, the next thing is its proper installation. For installing the stereo system in your car, you can take the help of the technical expert present at the store from where you bought it. Some stores offers free installation as an after sale service while others charge the fee for the same. You can install the system in your car all by yourself as it is not that difficult as it ought to look. For installing the stereo system in your car, you can take the help from the guidelines provided by the manual that come along with it.

While beginning the process of its installation, make sure that your fitting is right. Care should be taken while purchasing the stereo system that the slots must fit the new stereo. Follow the steps mentioned in the manual carefully to make sure that the wires are connected in a right fashion. Once you have followed the steps carefully and made necessary arrangements accordingly, then slide your system in the slot provided to test it. Power it and put the music on to see whether the system along with the accessories is working properly. If you get back the sound quality that you wanted then it will ensure that you have installed it in your car properly.

So make your friends drool for the sound emancipating from the stereo system of your car by selecting a good one and moreover installing it properly.

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Car Stereo System Improvement

Car Stereo System Improvement

A car stereo system is one of the most important parts of your car. It not only enhances the status of your car, but a good car stereo can make listening to music in cars an audio treat. To get the most out of your stereo, a system improvement may be necessary.

To improve the total car stereo, you need to improve all the components of your stereo. And to improve those components, you need to use all the upgraded versions of the components.

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First, let us take a look at the important components of car stereos. They are tweeters, subwoofers, speakers, iPod adapters, amplifiers etc. All of them add a new dimension to your car stereo.

Speakers are the most important component for your car stereo. Adding new speakers in your car can change the whole audio system dramatically. But remember, you have to attach it properly. Otherwise you will not be able to get the proper effect.

When you choose a speaker, you must then remember that you have to add speakers that will fit your car. If you use a good quality speaker, then it will save your stereo from any kind of damage and it will also prevent the imbalance of sound.

Proper installation of the speaker is very important. The quality of sound depends on the quality of speakers. If you install a very old fashioned speaker, then the sound will not be as good as the hi fi ultramodern music gizmos.

Tweeter is the next important thing for the car speaker. The tweeters take good care of the high sounds. This kind of sound is not delivered well by the regular speakers. Tweeters are necessary for those. It must be a good tweeter; otherwise the effects will be disturbed.

Sometimes distortions harm the sound. To get rid of these distortions, receivers can be used. They will provide less distortions and better quality sound. You can even add some other music sources. A satellite radio tuner, portable DVD can be used for better result. You can include these sources with the help of an auxiliary input.

Vibrations are one of the very things that harm the stereo sound. These vibrations are created by the excessive noise of roads and the stereo. To help you out of this problem there are vibration dampers.

Dynamats are another thing that absorbs the vibration. Once the vibration is absorbed, the background noises will be off. So the sound will be more prominent and you will find no hassle while listening to the music.

If you want a full proof world-class sound, then installing a bass blocker is mandatory. The stereo cannot handle some bass frequencies. This tool is fully equipped with the power to block all the extra bass frequencies. This bass blocker has to be installed in the wire of your stereo.

You can wire your speakers and subwoofers in the phase. It will make the sound more balanced. You can even change the style of enclosure of your speaker. If you apply all these techniques, you will surely be able to improve your car stereo.

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Tips For Buying Car Stereo Speakers

Tips For Buying Car Stereo Speakers

Who says you can't have an excellent stereo system in your car? You don't necessarily have to buy something that will cause everyone's windows to rattle off the hinges - but you can definitely find something that will allow you to listen to your music with ease and the best sound quality. But how do you find the right car stereo system with the best speakers?

There are dozens of different types of car stereo systems from different makers. The most popular and average these days now come with a DVD player, television, and navigational system. Not to mention excellent sound quality to go with everything. There are many factors that are involved when trying to choose the best type.

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First you have to discover which one will offer you the sound quality and have the features that you want and need. For sound quality you can test the speakers in store and determine which one offers the kind that you like the best. The next thing that you have to consider is the size that will actually fit into your car. That is why when you go to browse the stores you need to bring information on the make and model car you have.

The different features that you choose will determine how expensive the stereo system is. You can choose one that has a CD player in the dash and that can support MP3 and WMA files. You can also choose one that is built with a DVD player and navigation system. But these are optional and not required. If you want something basic you may just want the CD player alone with the radio system. That will leave more room to spend on some of the best car stereo speakers to offer better surround sound.

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Car Stereo Installations

Car Stereo Installations

The installation kits and guides for car stereo systems are handy and helpful not only for beginners but also for those who want to try their hand in doing small repairs or remodeling.

Installation may mean adding new features or replacing the stock audio system. You can customize the stock audio system of your car by replacing the stereo, speakers and amplifier with those of your choice.

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Before actually starting the installation task, double-check that you are in ready possession of the needed tools, like screwdrivers, wire stripper, crimper, wiring ties, butt splices, the dash bit, etc. In some cases, you may require an antenna adapter. These are readily available with your stereo retailer.

The best way to install your car speakers, stereos, amplifiers etc is to follow the instructions given in the instruction manual. Every car has a specific model of audio system. So, plan what best you can install in your vehicle.

In most cars, the front speakers are preferably round, while the rear speakers are oval. It is better if you choose to retain same stock location for speakers, to avoid breaking the door panel or the retaining dips in case of removing speakers installed in doors.

Basically, car stereo installation includes radio installation, front speaker, rear end speaker installation and the selection of equipment.

You can upgrade your car stereo system and install equipment with better features. For example, you can choose a head unit with remote control and a rigid face.

The head unit is the mostly likely part that is upgraded whenever there is any new arrival in the market. After all, the speakers and stereos determine the quality of sound produced.

Some of the other components which are upgraded in a high-end car stereo are amplifiers, alternators, cables, audio processors, woofer enclosure, equalizers, DVD, navigation etc.

You need to constantly upgrade the alternators according to your vehicle's current capability in terms of the electrical system. If you want to install very large audio systems in your car, then you may need loads of batteries to control fluctuations in current flow and thereby enjoy your favorite music for longer periods. You would not run out of power.

In the US, to assist you in high-end or custom car stereo installations, there are a couple of learning centers, namely The Syntec Technical School and Mobile Dynamics.

If music is your passion, then install an audio system perfectly suited to your car and listen to your favorite music endlessly.

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MP3 Players and Cars - How to Stream Music Through Your Car's Stereo Into Your iPod FM Transmitters

MP3 Players and Cars - How to Stream Music Through Your Car's Stereo Into Your iPod FM Transmitters

When it comes to playing your iPod through your car's speakers you often run into some common problems. Typically, there is not a dock installed on your stereo that will accept your iPod or MP3 player. Fortunately, you do have a few options to solve this problem, and each has its own limitations. Solutions include FM transmitters, cassette adapters, wired FM modulators, stereos with an inline ports, or RCA ports. Some will have much better quality sound, while others will sound static and choppy. It is this author's intention to discuss the benefits and limitations of all these possible options.

Your simplest and cheapest choice is using an FM transmitter. There are two types of FM transmitters: wired and wireless. Basically, a wired one connects to your car, while a wireless uses radio frequency to play through the car stereo. The basic function of these devices is that you run plug from your iPod and pick up a signal from your car's radio stations. The frequency allotted is very low and will only work for stations between 88.1 FM - 107.9FM. Any other station will not pick up the sound coming through the FM transmitter.

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It is possible to increase the stations available, but the FCC rules and regulations for radio will not allow it. The FCC will not allow FM transmitters to broadcast over 18.75 nanowatts, ensuring that they will not work well. Essentially, you are creating your own low-wattage radio station. Unfortunately you are competing with major radio stations that are pushing out 6,000 + watts of music. This can cause the MP3 player and radio station to mix together into a distorted mess. One of the most popular types of FM Transmitters is the Belkin TuneCast II.

It is strong, versatile, and can pick up many radio frequencies clearly. FM Transmitters, although providing clean, listenable sound, may not approach that standard hailed by music purists. As such, it may not be the ideal solution for audiophiles. FM radio stations will never sound the same as a CD or your MP3 player does. Luckily, these go for around a piece making this a popular choice.

When shopping for your FM transmitter you want to look to see if it is battery operated or plugs into your car's cigarette adapter. Both work well, but plugging it into your car's cigarette adapter allows for your iPod charging while playing music. Cigarette lighter adapters will sometimes come with a cradle. A cradle is a nice way to hold your MP3 player and charge it simultaneously. Accessory Genie makes a Flex Pod FM transmitter that has a cradle with a flexible neck allowing for more customization.

Newer transmitters have PSL technology; positive station delivers quality sound and reduces drift as you travel from city to city. Most, if not all the newer versions have LCD screens showing what station you should tune into. Others like the Road Master Corp include a remote control for the ultimate ease and control.

Another option is to purchase an audio cassette adapter for your iPod. Basically, there is a cord that plugs into your MP3 players headphone jack and leads to a cassette. You insert the cassette into your car's cassette player (if it has one) and off you go. The downside is not many cars have cassette players anymore. The sound quality is much better than that of a wired FM transmitter because there is no interference from the other radio stations. Sony cassette adapters are very cheap as well, costing as little as from Philips or another major brand.

A wired FM modulator eliminates passing through the cluttered radio airwaves when playing your iPod's music. They intercept the radio waves from your antenna and radio. It only requires minimal installation, replacing a wire in back of your car stereo's antenna. Then you can run the wire into your MP3 player's headphone jack. It is much simpler than it sounds and takes about 5 minutes to install.

The modulator is versatile, running on any FM frequency. It is better to choose a station near the beginning or end of the FM station frequency range. Crutchfield has a large selection of wired FM modulators. There is much less noise and zero interference from the radio stations using the FM modulator. They are inexpensive, typically costing around for a decent model from Crutchfield or some other electronics stores.

The simplest and easiest to install would be the car stereo with an inline port included. Most of the newer model cars have this feature. It is a small jack that is on your car radio. Simply insert the wire into the iPods headphone jack and the other end of the wire goes into the stereo's line-in jack. Set your stereo to Auxiliary and you are ready to hear some quality MP3 sound. If your car does not have the line-in port you can purchase a new stereo with this jack for 0. Buying a new radio simply for the line-in jack is wasteful and not the optimal solution for people on a budget.

New car stereos, primarily those with a CD player, have an RCA port in the back of them. You can run a wire through the MP3 player's headphone jack straight into the RCA port. You can purchase an RCA-to-headphone jack cord for a few bucks at any electronics store. These cables come in different sizes and lengths, depending on your car's stereo and how far it is located from you.

Ask your local electronics store what size and length is right for your car's stereo. To install this you must remove your radio and locate the red and white inputs on the backside. Plug the wires into the RCA port and your car will play perfect sounding music though your iPod or MP3 player. All you need to do now is tune your radio to "CD" or "Auxiliary" and away you go.

Remember there are many options for your iPod or MP3 player and knowing what your budget is and what features your car stereo has can help you make an informed decision. You also must make sure that your MP3 player is compatible with your product the new iPhone 3G are not compatible with older model FM transmitters. There may be more than one optimal choice, which is why it is up to you to go to your electronics shop and make sure you are getting what you need.

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Finding the Best Double Din Car Stereo

Finding the Best Double Din Car Stereo

Similar to other car accessories, the options available for double din car stereo systems can be overwhelming to a novice shopper. So before actually buying a double din audio system, it would be wise to familiarize yourself with the some of its features and utilities. Getting the stereo features that you need, will give you the best value for your money.

The main function of a car stereo is to play music that will relax and keep you company while on the road. However, poor signal reception can interfere with your listening enjoyment. Hence, you need a double din car stereo system that features an AM/FM radio tuner that is integrated with satellite radio capabilities to ensure uninterrupted and continuous music play. Also, look for stereos with low FM sensitivity, which is around 8 to 12 dbf. This feature basically corresponds to the stereo's ability to clear up analog signals and remove static, which is a common problem with radio broadcasts.

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If you are looking for an HD radio, think about its capacity to receive and manage digital signals. To enjoy static-free reception and better sound quality, an HD double din car stereo sounds like a perfect upgrade to your old and fussy car radio.

Do you love your CD and DVD collections? Then look for DVD/CD and mp3 player features to accommodate your music collection. But while double din car stereo systems are different from standard DVD and CD players, there will be a big difference when it comes to sound quality. Hence, be wary of the signal to noise radio of the double din stereo that you consider buying. Having higher decibel or dB ratings is a good thing as it refers to the stereo's ability to produce cleaner sound to playback.

Common audio music formats include mp3, wma or windows media audio and AAC. These formats usually fit as much as 150 songs in a 650 MB CD. Hence, for your cruising pleasure and operating convenience, pick the unit that accommodates all three music formats. Also, consider buying a unit that can read USB devices upon plugging. This will allow you to enjoy more music with a single file source.

Not all double din car stereo systems have touch screen features. The option between touch screen or knobs and buttons is a question of personal preference. However, touch screen displays are generally safer and more convenient to use especially while driving. This allows you to easily locate the utilities you need to activate with the least hassle and without losing your focus on the road. Touch screen features also perfectly complement functions like GPS and hands-free phone answering or calling.

Popular brands for double din car stereo include Alpine, Panasonic, JVC and Kenwood. More of these car audio system digital technology leaders can be found in the Internet. Prices start as low as 0 to 0, depending on the utilities and features of the double din stereo unit. Visit some online shopping stores to conveniently get price quotes and compare stereo features. Take time to read some product reviews to get realistic expectations out of the double din stereo unit, which you consider buying.

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