Thursday, March 29, 2012

Car Stereo Systems - Amps, Subs, Speakers And CD Players

In the case of car audio, many contemplate constructing a well-balanced system, usually never. The most vital part of your music system is in fact managing the various highs, mids and lows, getting them to circulate beautifully inside of the car, collectively. This is going to allow you to hear the finest depth, every detail, your tunes can give.

CD receivers, for brand new vehicles, might already include a variety of options needed for you to enjoy tunes. They may possibly employ a 3.5mm front input jack which you can connect your portable songs player. Recent cars are currently offering decks that offer increasingly more ways for you to enjoy tunes.

Whenever you have an older vehicle, odds are, the preferred feature to choose to listen to music is going to be the FM radio, and some might certainly possess a CD player. Generally, these outdated receivers possibly will not deliver sufficient power for upgraded speakers, in case you want to change out the older speakers. The right route is always to replace your factory deck with an upgraded deck. This will certainly offer you a lot of songs playing choices together with improving power output to completely new speakers you will install.

Speakers in differing cars come set up offering diverse size speakers. For anyone who is uncertain which size speakers you may have, easily research the vehicle make, model and year to discover which size speakers your car has.

Do not be selfish with the speakers. In case you're upgrading the front speakers, switch out your back speakers at the same time. It's important to offer good music for your rear passengers as well.

If you're searching for a louder sound system, you should purchase a 4-channel amp to power the four speakers installed in the front and back. Whenever you pick out your speakers, don't forget to pay consideration to the RMS rating. The RMS rating will be the amount of watts the speaker will handle consistently. Whenever all four speakers are identical and handle 50 watts RMS each, buy an amp that offers 50 watts RMS for each channel.

When your speakers are diverse sizes for the front and back plus handle differing RMS ratings, by way of example, your front 4-inch speakers handle 40 watts RMS and the 5 1/4" rear speakers handle 65 watts RMS, select a 4-channel amplifier that delivers 40 watts RMS per channel. Each speaker will definitely be loud enough and you simply are not going to have to be concerned with damaging the smaller speakers.

Just one sub will probably be good when you'd like to increase low frequency that plainly is not presently present. Your manufacturer speakers might actually sound fair, however when you turn the bass high, you are far from satisfied with the distortion from the speakers.


Monday, March 26, 2012

A Car Stereo System Is A Great Gift Idea For Music Lovers

Sometimes something happens to give you a strong feeling of exhilaration and your spirit lifts up to a higher level than where it normally is. For some it's that winning goal in a football match, or being the first to the tape in a race. For me that's when one of my favourite tracks starts playing and everything starts to feel better, no matter what my problems.

Music from my youth, or even from my childhood years that I've grown attached to and never seems to age for me. Music that brings poignant memories of good times, that changes the way the world looks - sometimes in an instant, sometimes it just grows on you slowly.

Although we always take our music with us there are some places that consistently seem to be places where we really need it. In the home and in the car are particular places where you automatically turn the music on, when you want to listen to it and at the volume that suits the mood you are in. Of course, you can spend the day with a portable stereo and earphones plugged in, great if you are on foot. However, the two places we usually want the best quality music player in are the home and in the car and that's where the quality becomes more important.

Often when setting up home we treat ourselves to a music system that allows us to play our carefully acquired music whenever we please, but the car tends to be left out because the music system in it comes as standard. Although we spend a lot of time in the car we tend to get used to what is available to us and the factory fitted car stereo system is accepted.

Remember that a car audio system is factory fitted with a low cost system that doesn't waste too much money on car owners who really do not care about music. They sound OK, they have to, just so that cars in the showroom at least sound good, but when you spend so much time driving and appreciate music then you might feel better with a change.

Why put up with factory specification when you can put some power and quality into that beautiful sound you want to enjoy whilst you are held captive going from A to B? Get a brand new quality car stereo system that gives your music the justice it deserves.

In fact, doesn't this sound like a great gift to somebody you know. Someone who travels often, loves music and would appreciate a gift of a quality new car stereo system. If you did give this as a gift then imagine that moment their favourite music is played, it catches them just at the right time, lifts them higher than they have felt for ages, in perfect clarity and powerful volume. A car stereo system is the perfect gift of a perfect sound in a place where it really does get appreciated.


Saturday, March 24, 2012

Parrot Bluetooth Car Kits - MKi Button Synchronising

MKi Parrot Bluetooth car kits have a separate remote control. This battery driven unit may need to be synchronised to the kit because it was broken and you have replaced it, or simply because it has stopped working. As this button is not hardwired, this is an easy fix for customers to make without the need for professional help.

Button Placement

With this range of Bluetooth car kits there is a choice when it comes to placing the remote control. Unlike many other systems the remote is battery operated and totally independent from the rest of the kit. It is because there is no connecting cable, that a greater range of mounting options are possible.

In all photographs provide by Parrot, the remote control is placed within a thumbs reach while being strapped to the car steering wheel. The problem with this option is that the unit often gets knocked and can easily end up broken. Realistically most people develop their own driving style and just don't stick to the 'Ten-to-Two' hands on the steering wheel position.

The remote control can also be placed on the dash. Depending on the car interior design there are usually a few options to choose from. Please note that the device needs to be within easy reach of the driver and also stuck down onto a flat surface.

We find that there is about a fifty-fifty split in how customers choose the remote control to be mounted. However in our own personal cars we prefer the button to be mounted on the dash.

System Confusion

The remote control connects to the rest of the kit wirelessly. It is not very common, but occasionally a system gets confused and the remote stops being able to communicate with the brain.

Whether you are programming in a new remote or synchronising an existing remote the method is the same. The procedure is a sequence of button presses, performed at the correct time and can be performed by car owners.

MKi Button Synchronising

1. Turn the ignition on a wait for the device to start-up,

2. When you see either 9200 or 9100 in the screen then,

3. Hold down the green and play/pause button together with one hand while,

4. Press the red button several times until the display shows the kit is responding.

MKi Parrot Bluetooth Kits - Getting it Right

It is important that the button press sequence is done at the point that the screen comes to life. Customers with the MKi 9000, without a screen, will need to guess at getting it right. It is worth noting that these Parrot Bluetooth kits generally take about 10 seconds or more to wake up.

It is also worth having several goes at getting the button synchronised before assuming something is broken.


Thursday, March 22, 2012

A Good Car Sound System Improves Your Driving Experience

A car sound system is usually replaced by a car owner when individual components have broken down or simply to upgrade for better sound quality. Whichever reason motivates you, there is not doubt that it is a good idea. Just about any aftermarket mobile audio components are superior to stock sound components when comparing sound quality but there are some basic points to consider when making a decision concerning product brands and models.

The first thing to consider is whether you would like to upgrade separate components in your sound system or replace the entire system. Many car owners will opt to replace just the source unit in the dash and maybe the main speakers. This step alone can improve the overall sound quality of any vehicle's stock audio system.

When replacing or upgrading a car's audio system, one of the most important factors in helping you make your decision is your budget. Obviously, replacing an entire car sound system is going to be more expensive then just changing a couple of its components. If you plan on changing several components, you'll also want to decide how much of your budget you intend to dedicate to each item. It is easy to blow an entire budget on a high priced subwoofer and enclosure and then realize you can't afford a source unit. Without planning this happens all the time.

After you figure the expense of the sound system's components, you'll have to consider the installation. If handy with tools and with a basic knowledge of electronics you might feel confident enough to install your own equipment. This can save you a good amount of money and you'll find an abundance of information on the subject located on the web. Many local shop owners will have package prices available when you purchase the components directly from them and have them do the install. But be aware, you will always save cash if you buy your components from reputable online sources and just inquire about a straight forward installation after you receive them. Once local shop owners know you have already purchased your equipment, they will be more then happy to provide installation at a reasonable cost.

When considering various car sound system components, consider exactly what features are most important to you. This is most important when shopping for source units. From personal experience in the field, most buyers unintentionally pay for many options that they'll never use.

One important option to consider when looking at source units is the availability of hands-free operation. You don't want an in-dash unit which has so many options that it takes your attention away from driving. New hands free technology is working its way into car audio as well as communication products.

Yet another important option to consider if you have children is the availability of dual zone controls. Its great to have the children watching their favorite DVDs in the back seat but you might get a bit tired of hearing them and miss your favorite tunes. The dual zone controls allows the back seat passengers to listen to the head sets as you enjoy the front speakers with your own music selections.


Tuesday, March 20, 2012

Car Electronics: The Gifts That Keep on Giving

Whether you're looking for a holiday present, a graduation gift, or a birthday present, sometimes it seems impossible to find the right gift. Either your friend is too picky or your mother-in-law already has everything, and you can just feel stuck when it comes to finding a present they'll like. Now, it may sound a little odd, but why not buy them aftermarket car electronics? Even if the proposed recipient of the gift isn't into window rattling bass or iPod integration systems, there are several kinds of mobile electronics that are sure to fit the bill for just about everyone in your life. And unlike a box of chocolates or a boring gift card, aftermarket systems like in-car GPS, vehicle security alarms, or even backup cameras are gifts that keep on giving. So if you're looking for a present for Christmas, birthdays, or pretty much any other occasion, and the individual on your list owns a car or truck, keep reading for great ideas that are sure to please.

Car Alarms

At first glance, a car alarm may not seem like the most appropriate thing to give as a Christmas present, but when you start to think about it, who wouldn't want the peace of mind a vehicle security system can provide. Whether you live in an urban area or your neighborhood has more of a suburban feel, car theft is an unfortunate fact of life, and it can happen to anyone. Giving the gift of a car alarm can provide your loved one with the stress-free knowledge that their vehicle is safeguarded from ill-intentioned miscreants. And with car security alarm models ranging from bare-bones to all the bells and whistles, there's sure to be an option that fits your desired budget.

Car GPS

Especially perfect for frequent road trippers and people whose sense of direction is somewhat lacking, giving a car navigation GPS is a fabulous present that will help get your loved one from point A to point B without the hassle. Available in portable models or as a fully installed in-dash navigation system, car GPS comes at a variety of different price points as well as with various features. Just think: who hasn't gotten lost in an unfamiliar area or had to stop to ask for directions at least once in their life? When you give the gift of a GPS navigation system, you make it easy for the driver to reach their destination without the stress.

Backup Cameras

Backup cameras provide peace of mind by helping prevent accidents: Since they display an image of what's behind the car, there's no more reversing into the neighbor's mailbox, traffic, or even passing pedestrians. Backup camera installation can be surprisingly non-invasive with a license plate frame mounted camera, and even with integrated systems, the benefits far outweigh the installation drawbacks. Helping keep your loved one safe today and well down the road, a rear view camera is a gift that shows you truly care.

So if you're stumped on what to get for that important gift-giving occasion, don't just settle for another boring gift card. Give your friend or family member a gift that will bring them great benefits well into the future: Whether you pick a portable car GPS, a versatile car security alarm, or a fully integrated backup camera system, they're sure to love these aftermarket car electronics. Contact your local car audio shop to learn more about affordable, sure-to-please gift-giving options.



Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Top Four Car Accessories for the Technophile

I love my technical gadgets, there is almost nothing I own, I do not think, could be improved by fitting it with Bluetooth and synchronising it with my mobile. As I spend a lot of time in my car this is one area I want kitted out with the latest car accessories to connect my world.

Bluetooth Radio

I carry all my music on my phone so I don't have very many CD's, which make playing music in the car awkward. I like that every time I get into my car my phone automatically connects to the radio and starts playing music. It is just one little thing that makes things a little bit easier. This also has the benefit of acting like a hands free kit. So I do not need to put a Bluetooth headset in everything I get in the car just in case I get a call. For me this is my favourite car accessory as it makes things simple.

Sat-nav

This must be something most people have by now and I for one would be (literally) lost without it. I have a standalone sat nav as well as the one on my phone which I find much easier than looking over maps. After a few pokes and pinches I have usually found my route whereas if I were using my none GPS fitted map I would be still struggling to find out where I was never mind were I need to be.

Parking Sensors

Most new cars now come with parking sensors but if your car does not have them you can also add these yourself. I got sick of parking up only to realise the gap I thought was tiny was almost big enough for another car, or even worse being stopped suddenly by a crunch. I found that parking sensors drastically improved my parking, and make the process a lot quicker. Of all the car accessories I have mentioned this is perhaps the most difficult to fit, but you can usually fit these yourself with a bit of know how.

USB charger

With all this in-car tech it can be difficult keeping it all going. As much as I love my sat nav over my map, my map will never run out of batteries. So I always have a universal charger on hand in my car. This way I have got a cable for whenever one of my car accessories needs some extra power. If you take a look around you will find you can get individual ports as well as plugs with multiple USB ports.

These are just my top four; there are a plethora of gadgets out there to fill almost any problem you can think of. So start thinking about how some new car accessories could make you car a better place to be.


Wednesday, February 22, 2012

Touch Screen Technology in Today's Car Stereos

Touch screen technology is becoming very popular among consumers in the United States. There are many electronic services and products that are using this technology. Touch screen technology is making everything much safer, easier and more fun to use. It takes little effort to find and change a song on a modern touch screen car stereo and that is really important because now driving is in focus. Besides car stereos, touch screen technology is now making it easy to buy tickets online, do online banking, play games and a lot more. As we all know, the prices of electronic products are decreasing and touch screen car stereos are being affected too! And that's good news because, for many people, touch screen car stereos were very expensive car accessories for a number of years, but not anymore. The prices in the gadget industry are rapidly changing and becoming more affordable.

A car stereo has been developed from a simple device where you could have listed to your favorite radio station or maybe played a CD. Quite a big number of new functions have been added to make the most modern and exciting stereos ever! You can now play your music files from a CD or a DVD (MP3, WMA, AAC audio formats are supported). A portable music player like iPod or any other MP3 player is also compatible and it can be connected to the stereo. You can even load your music from a MMC or SD card - these types of cards are mainly found in digital cameras. So as you can see, there are a lot of options and you can use the one you like the most. As far as video files go, all I can say is that almost every major video format is supported. Here is just a short list: MP4, WMV, XVID, DIVX, MPEG etc. Video files can be loaded from the same sources as the audio files.

There are many manufacturers that offer touch screen car stereo, and here are some of the more popular ones: Sony, Jensen, Alpine, Kenwood, Clarion, Planet Audio, BOSS, Absolute, Pyle, Power Acoustic, Sound Stream, TKO Audio, Quantum FX, JVC, Legacy and DTI. Most of them offer a 7-inch adjustable screen, but there are also 5-inch versions. The "adjustable" means that you can angle the monitor and that makes is very comfortable to watch. The crisp touch-screen makes navigation easier and smoother. The sound quality is awesome. Some of the models even include a GPS system, others have an option for it. Bluetooth technology is available to connect your headset.