How to Choose a Car Stereo

Your car stereo is the centerpiece of your whole audio system. To make sure the stereo you choose meets all your needs, follow these tips.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Amplifiers
• Car Stereo
• Car Stereo Cables
• Car Stereo Speakers
• Car Stereo Subwoofers
• Car Stereo Wires

Before Visiting the Store

1. Read car audio magazines such as "Car Audio & Electronics" and "Auto Sound & Security." They will tell you which products are available and what features they have.
2. Make a prioritized list of the features you want in a stereo.
3. Write down the make, model and year of your car.
4. Get a cassette or CD of your favorite music.

At the Store

5. Ask a salesperson to suggest stereos based on your prioritized feature list. If the choices bust your budget, eliminate features one by one until you find at least three stereos you can afford.
6. Listen to each stereo, using your own music, and select the one that sounds best.
7. Make sure your choice is easy to operate.
8. Check that everything you need is in the stereo's packing box. The package should include a faceplate, carrying case, sleeve, main plugs (some have one, some have two), one or two metal keys (for removing the stereo), an owner's manual and an installation manual.

Tips & Warnings

• If you choose a radio/cassette as your base unit, make sure it can command a CD changer. (You can add one later.)
• Choose a stereo with a built-in power source.
• A good stereo should have four channels so it can drive four speakers.
• Select a stereo with high-level outputs; if you plan to add an amplifier later, choose a stereo that also has low-level outputs.
• Pick a stereo with a fader so you can adjust the relative volume of the front and rear speakers.