Vehicle speakers have become increasingly sophisticated over the years. You may have a set of factory-installed speakers in your car, but if you want to upgrade to something even better, you need to do some research. There is no shortage of options; make sure you know what features to look for before purchasing anything. If you're looking for a little guidance, here's how to pick the right speaker system for your ride.
1. Size Matters
First, think about where you'll use the new speakers. Do you plan on using them while driving? In your garage? On a boat? The larger the enclosure (speaker box), the louder the sound.
So what does that mean for you?
Well, the bigger the speaker, the louder it sounds at any given volume level. But remember, the size of the enclosure affects how loud you can play your music at low volumes, not high ones. And bigger boxes don't necessarily translate into better sound quality:
A lot goes into making good-quality speakers that deliver clean, clear sound. That said, large enclosures generally hold more power than smaller boxes. So when choosing your enclosure, keep these things in mind:
Power handling capacity - How much power will the speaker output? Will it be able to handle the amount of current drawn by your amplifier? Is this enough power to drive two sets of speakers? What kind of amp will work best with the speakers?
Sound quality - Do the speakers fit well with your home theater setup? Consider the placement of those woofers and tweeters. Also, consider how they will affect the frequency range of your midrange drivers.
2. Your Budget Matters
Just because a speaker costs less doesn't always mean it won't give you great sound. Think about it: You could spend $700 or invest in a pair of speakers for $500. What's the difference between the two? It comes down to what you value most when considering your purchase. You should be fine if you understand what you are getting into.
3. Quality Counts
Look closely at the details of the products you prefer. While many manufacturers offer attractive designs, few build their speakers from the ground up. Next, look closely at the cabinets that surround each driver.
Does the cabinet have any visible flaws?
For example, how thick is its metal grille cover? Keep in mind that the thicker the metal grill, the greater the chance it will rust. It isn't just a cosmetic issue: Rust makes the cabinet susceptible to corrosion damage. It will ultimately lead to poor performance, cracking, and eventual failure of your speaker.
While choosing a speaker, try not to get caught up in the hype. Instead, buy a product based on its features, design, and capabilities, not only on price. Then, once you've purchased what you believe is the ideal speaker, stick with it! Most people find that the longer they listen to the same piece of equipment, the more comfortable they feel with it.
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