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Receivers are the heart of the system, as they send the music to the speakers and receive satellite radio signals. Look for a receiver that has a detachable face. This way, you can take the control panel out and take it home. The unit will not work without it, and anyone looking to steal a unit will pass your's right by.
Speakers come in different sizes and should be mounted with special hardware that will resist the elements.
Amplifiers are necessary if you have subwoofers. Regular speakers do not need an amplifier, but you will get much more power with one. A boat is a noisy environment, so you may need one. - Different systems offer varied features. Assessories include a wired remote control, marine covers that will protect the equipment from sun and water damage, satellite radio, an iPod adapter or a CD changer. Marine audio systems can play CDs, as well as MP3, WMA and AAC files. Some of the higher-end models will even let you hook up a TV. Satellite radios can receive satellite signals from as far away as 200 miles.
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Receivers are measured in watts, and the power can range from 17 watts to 45 watts and 2 or 4 channels.
Speakers can range from 4 inches to 8 inches, with a power range from 4 to 80 watts.
Amplifiers can range from 25 watts to about 350 watts, with 2 or 4 channels.
Subwoofers can range from 8 to 15 inches. - A marine audio system must be waterproof--meaning it can be submerged in water--or at least water-resistant, which means it can take a splash. It also needs to be resistant to UV rays from the sun. Corrosion can occur rapidly in a salt-water environment, so make sure your system has coated circuit boards, plated connections and a rust-resistant chassis.
- Do not install your speakers near your compass, unless they are magnetically shielded--or you could end up off course.
