I am amazed at how many people on an audio forum feel that car audio is not of good quality. Sure, the OEM systems are generally poor sounding, but don't stop there and accept it. All you need is a good source (CD is best for the car but an MP3 source works well if not highly compressed) and simply start with a good integration device in order to develop a quality, high fidelity music system. Mobile electronics are far more sophisticated than most people here are giving credit. Most of the good integration devices also have time correction as part of their function. Good amplification, good speakers, and a good subwoofer - all properly installed - and you will have an amazing audio experience, especially for those long drives on a weekend getaway. I find the best way to get good bass and still retain the vehicle cargo space is to build a fiberglass custom enclosure into the rear quarter panel (for SUV or crossover vehicles) and upholster to match the interior. Sound deadening materials for the doors is a must. Tuning properly with crossovers and gain controls in the amps and tuning the time correction properly goes very far in achieving good SQ. If done properly the center imaging is very impressive. The mobile environment can be a challenge for good sound quality, but with good product and a good installation it is very entertaining and quite enjoyable. It's not intended to be that of a high quality 2-channel home audio system. It's just good sounds and good fun. My car audio system begins with maintaining the dash as it is, and from there it's all high quality aftermarket products. Visually you can't tell there is anything added into the system. But, sonically you sure can!
Do you care about car audio?
I like nice cars and I appreciate the fact that I've been fortunate enough to lease and drive some very nice ones. I would never drive a luxury car out of warranty, but that's not my point. My point is, as much as I love audio, I never really had any urge to upgrade my car audio system. Whatever came with the car was totally satisfactory to me. Right now, my car came with a somewhat upgraded Meridian stereo, but it is not the full-blown surround/subwoofer deal. It sounds fine and I've never wanted more than a standard decent car radio had to offer.
Do you people have any enthusiasm for upgraded car audio as opposed to stock? Then again, truth be told, I've never listened to the fancy car setups and I might be tempted if I thought it was that much more enjoyable. Who knows.
Do you people have any enthusiasm for upgraded car audio as opposed to stock? Then again, truth be told, I've never listened to the fancy car setups and I might be tempted if I thought it was that much more enjoyable. Who knows.