Numbers are like lawyers, they reveal only a fraction of the truth and conveniently overlook the rest.
So, when someone boasts of having installed the latest audio system in their car with a 5-CD changer, 10 speakers, 2 woofers, 5 surround speakers, 3 speakers surrounding the surround speakers, and God-knows-what-else, you should calmly take in that comment without batting an eyelid. Let the other guy bask in his moment of glory for a few seconds, and then unleash your car’s custom-built audio arsenal. After your poor friend has recovered from this acoustic assault, you can sit down and explain the advantages that a custom car audio system has over its run-of-the-mill stock counterpart.
Customizing the Components of Car Audio System
A customized car audio system is not very different from a stock one in terms of basic components. It more or less comprises the same fundamental parts as its counterpart. The major difference lies in the fact that in case of a customized car stereo, each component is separately designed and purchased on an individual basis, whereas in case of a stock car audio, the entire system is designed and installed as a single entity. In case of a custom-built car stereo, you can individually buy different car audio components such as speakers, head units, sub-woofers, etc., on a one-to-one basis, and then assemble them to build your own personalized system. A custom car audio system typically consists of:
- Head Unit: It is nothing but the frontal control unit that houses the CD player, MP3 player, DVD player, radio, cassette player, etc. While purchasing a head unit for your custom car stereo, you should pick one that is compatible with the maximum number of media. Also, make sure that it has an inbuilt anti-theft mechanism for added security. These days, certain head units provide advanced features like USB and Bluetooth compatibility, and can be synchronized with mobile phones as well.
- Speakers: I guess there is no need to stress on the importance of having good speakers in the sound system of your car. Bad speakers can make a Michael Jackson song sound like the London Symphony Orchestra. So, if you happen to be a music aficionado and a purist, you really should be careful about what speakers you buy. Speakers come in multiple variants such as door speakers, front speakers, rear speakers, floor speakers, and specially designed boot speakers. Each variant is available in different sizes and output capacities, and is exclusively designed for performing a very specific role in the cumulative sound production.
- Subwoofers: If you are the type who loves the thump, then this one is a must-buy. Subwoofers give that added bass effect to the entire sound and provide a boost to low-frequency sounds. Depending on your stereo needs, you can browse through different subwoofer models before you zero in on your final choice. Subwoofers when installed as a pair at the rear end or in the boot of the car provide excellent sound production.
- Amplifier: It is an optional accessory that you should buy only if your subwoofer needs additional amplification and wattage. An experienced car audio dealer can inspect your setup and then recommend the appropriate amplifier and other necessary accessories that your stereo system requires.
Why You Should Invest in a Custom-built Car Stereo
Customized audio systems make listening to music truly enjoyable and blissful. One can make out and appreciate the delicate musical nuances, which is rarely possible in case of a stock car stereo system. At the same time, you can go about building a customized stereo as per your convenience and availability, with respect to time and money. There is a lot of variety among the various components, so you should have a good time exploring each one of them during the buying process.
Remember, when it comes to customized car audio systems, quality matters more than quantity. So, the next time you take your car out for a drive through the city, remember to turn the volume up, and let the party begin!