How to Elevate Your Car Stereo System in 2022
New year’s resolutions don’t need to be exclusively about eating better or joining a gym. Instead of focusing exclusively on self-improvement, you can focus on improving the next best thing that’s important to you – your car. It makes sense when you think about it. You spend hours per month in the car commuting. It’s basically your home away from home, so you might as well make it the best it can be. One surefire way to do that is by elevating your car stereo system.
If you’re currently still using the original car audio that came with the vehicle, then you’ve probably noticed that it’s not quite as loud or clear as you’d like it to be. Stock car speakers and stereos are only made to perform to a certain level. It also might be lacking in some of the more modern features that are seen in late model vehicles. Fortunately, upgrading is incredibly easy. It’s also not nearly as expensive as you’d think.
Start with the Car Stereo System
One of the big questions that we get asked here at San Diego Car Stereo is: “Which part of my car audio should I upgrade first?”
Some people think that going with the car speakers is the natural starting point, when, in fact, it’s the car stereo system you want to check off first. Car speakers need a strong audio signal to increase their output. That can’t be accomplished with a stock car stereo system; they notoriously have weak signals.
So, your first order of business should always be upgrading to an aftermarket car stereo system. After all, this is going to be the centerpiece of your car audio.
But how do you choose?
What features should you look for in an aftermarket car stereo system?
First, you want to go with a car stereo that has plenty of power. This will ensure that you achieve the power and clarity that your music deserves. Be mindful of how much wattage the car stereo can produce. Many aftermarket car stereos these days also feature built-in amplifiers for additional power.
Next, you should give serious consideration to upgrading to a car stereo system that features a touchscreen interface. Not only does this make using the stereo easy and fun, but it also promotes safer driving habits since it’ll be easier to keep your eyes on the road. The screen essentially feels like using a tablet device.
You’ll also want to keep connectivity in mind when selecting your car stereo. A Bluetooth car stereo will allow you to pair up your phone to the system; however, you might prefer a car stereo with Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, which allows your phone to fully integrate with the car stereo system. You’ll even have access to your favorite apps.
Finally, you want to keep expandability in mind. A car stereo system is likely not the last upgrade you’ll even want to make. In the event you want to add aftermarket speakers and subs into the mix, you’ll need additional outputs to do that. Four outputs will get the job done if you plan on going with coaxial speakers. If you plan on going with component speakers, you may need six or eight outputs.
Other Upgrades That You Can Make After the Car Stereo System
Switching over to an aftermarket car stereo opens the door for several other upgrades. As we mentioned previously, car speaker upgrades are the next logical step. Coaxial car speakers are easier to install and less expensive since they are the all-in-one design; however, true audiophiles prefer component car speakers because it allows them to fully customize their car audio and focus on the elements that matter most to them.
If you want to go super loud with your system, we recommend checking out powered amplifiers. These pieces of equipment boost the audio signal coming from your car stereo system, allowing you to reach new levels of sound you never thought possible.
Finally, you can’t go wrong with external subwoofers that are either in a vented or ported enclosure. Vented subs are more boomy and thunderous. They will literally shake the panels on your doors. Sealed subwoofers offer a cleaner, more precise bassline. They won’t be as thunderous, but they have the edge in terms of refinement.
Upgrade Your Car Stereo System Today!
Now that you know the most important elements of upgrading your car audio, the next step is to book an appointment so that you can elevate your ride. If you’re looking for car stereo installation near you, the pros at San Diego Car Stereo have years of upgrading all makes and models of cars, trucks, and SUVs. We also have some of the widest selection of aftermarket car stereo systems in the San Diego area.
No matter what your budget is, our team will be able to find the right aftermarket equipment for you and perform your car audio installation quickly and efficiently.
San Diego Car Stereo is located at 4220 Convoy St. in San Diego. You can also email us directly using our contact form or call us at (858) 569-0777 to speak with a member of our team.