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Car Audio SystemA car audio system has four major components--the head units, amplifiers, speakers and auxiliary input devices, which are the CD changer or graphic equalizer. The head unit is the main part that makes the audio system work. It is a control panel where the volume and bass controls are and where the radio system resides. In some audio systems, the head unit contains all of the other three main components mentioned earlier, but they come in separate units in other models. The amplifiers are the signal boosters. In some models, they come with the head unit, usually located at the back. However, in most cases, they are separate from the unit to help dissipate heat.
The speakers make use of the power amplifier's boost and transpose the signals into audible sound or volume. Most systems have woofers, tweeters and midrange drivers. The auxiliary devices are the accessories; a car audio system can work without them. Some models have the auxiliary devices built into the head unit while others have them in separate units. Some CD changers have multiple changing units that cannot fit into the head unit; therefore, you can find them at the back of the car, usually hidden in the trunk area. MP3 and satellite radio players can be separate small units built close to the head unit. Some even have car in dash DVD viewer. The more you add to the car audio system, the higher is the price. -
Car SpeakersThe sound quality is what makes or breaks a car audio system. The best models come with crisp and clear sound. Furthermore, a growing number of the pricey systems come with high-definition sound quality. Some models come only with two speakers placed close to the driver and front passenger side. The other models come with four or more speakers placed in different areas of the car to create surround sound. -
Car Audio System DisplayControls for car audio systems can come in different shapes or forms. The lower priced models have fewer controls, limited to the radio channel and volume control.
The higher the price, the more the system has to offer. For example, a mid-priced audio system can come with a CD controller that has push buttons instead of the traditional knobs as controls, as well as a display to show time and channels. The pricey ones come with a bigger display unit to show the time, channels and music information such as the singer or band on a CD. They are also viewable in the dark. They come in touch screen form, integrated with GPS navigation. Some have volume and media controllers on the wheel handles for safety reasons to allow the driver ease of control without taking her eyes off the road. Even further up the chain are the voice-controlled car audio systems that make both driving and entertainment more enjoyable.
