When we talk about any signal, be it audio, video or data, there is an accompanied reality for alterations and errors made to that signal as it passes through different electronic components, conductors or magnetic fields. While we get concerned when we hear that a component introduces distortion or when we read distortion specifications, distortion Read More…
Subwoofer Enclosures, More Than Just a Box
For decades, there has been discussion after discussion about which of the different subwoofer enclosures are “the best” and why. Let’s take a look at why we need a subwoofer enclosure at all, and how the three popular styles – sealed, vented and bandpass – differ in their design and performance. Back-Wave Management If you Read More…
Adding Navigation To The Factory Color Screen In Your Vehicle
Let’s say you purchased a brand-new Dodge Journey, Chevy Silverado or Ford F-150. The vehicle has a big color display for the audio system, and it may even show the heating and air conditioning controls on the same screen. But alas, it would have cost several thousand dollars to add the factory navigation system because Read More…
Power Wire: OFC versus CCA
When it comes to high-current wiring in a vehicle, there are two types of stranded power wire available: solid copper and copper-clad aluminum. This article looks at the differences between each kind of wire, and explain the challenges of ensuring your high-current device gets the power it needs to do the job you want done. Read More…
What Is Android Auto?
When it comes to staying in touch with your family and friends while behind the wheel, we all know that it’s best to keep your cellphone in your pocket or purse. What do you do when you just have to communicate? Do it intelligently and safely with a smartphone integration system like Android Auto. Let’s Read More…
Guide to Choosing Car Audio Speakers
There is no component more important to the sonic performance of your vehicle’s sound system than the car audio speakers you chose to install. You may own the best radio and amplifier in the world, but without great speakers, none of that great sound can get to your ears. Let’s look at why speakers are Read More…
Adding an Auxiliary Input to Your Factory Radio
A message that mobile enhancement retailers strive to share is that we want you to come to us with your feature requests or ideas. If you want a remote starter or audio system upgrade, you know to come to us – but did you know we also can install heated seats, auto-dimming mirrors or auxiliary Read More…
10 Things to Consider When Buying Car Audio
Brought to you by our friends at BestCarAudio.com When it comes to buying or upgrading a car audio system, there are hundreds of products to choose from and dozens of questions for you to ask the sales staff at your local car audio retailer. This article provides some basic guidelines to help make the process Read More…
How to Buy a Car Audio Subwoofer
Adding a subwoofer to a car audio system is the best bang for the buck regarding audio performance upgrades. You can instantly hear the difference, and it dramatically improves the realism and enjoyment of your system. Let’s look at how to pick a car audio subwoofer for your vehicle. Factory Audio System Limitations Before we Read More…
Car Audio Amplifier Buying Guide
One of the most critical components in a high-quality vehicle entertainment system is your car audio amplifier. While the concept of increasing the power of an audio signal is simple, it can be somewhat complex to execute elegantly the process. Amplifier design is as much as science as it is an art form. In this Read More…
The Importance of Professional Mobile Electronics Installation
Several aspects of the automotive industry have always been embraced by hobbyists and do-it-yourself enthusiasts. Being able to say that you created something with your own bare hands would make anyone feel proud. In the mobile electronics industry, carmakers have been rapidly advancing the technology used in new cars. From computer data networks and advanced Read More…
Buying a New Car Audio Head Unit
When it comes time for buying an upgraded or replacement head unit for your vehicle, there are certainly a lot of options to consider. Size, features, compatibility and accessories are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to modern source units. Let’s take a look at some basic radio-buying knowledge and a few Read More…
Your Amplifier’s Gain Control is Not a Volume Control
For decades, car audio enthusiasts have been fiddling around with the gain control on their amplifiers in hopes of “getting more out of them.” Many professional installers have scientific, repeatable processes in place to ensure these controls are set to provide the maximum performance and reliability from your audio system. Let’s look at the most Read More…