How to Install a Marine Stereo

If you are an avid boating and marine enthusiast, you know that a great boat is not complete without a stereo system. So, rather than pay for somebody else to install a system for you, do it yourself. The process is much simpler than you may expect, and you can easily get the same results as a seasoned audio specialist.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Marine stereo kit (see Resources below)
• Miter saw
• Standard tool kit

Instructions

1. Mount the amplifier in the kit you purchased near the boat's battery. Connect its power wires to the positive and negative posts on the battery.

2. Cut holes for all the kit speakers in the walls of the boat using a miter saw. To make a clean cut, simply trace the outline of each speaker on a piece of thin paper. Then trace that on the wall of the boat.

3. Mount the speakers in each of the holes, making sure that you can easily access their power and audio input cords.

4. Run each of the speakers' cords to the amplifier. Tape the cords every foot or so all the way back to the amplifier. Keep the wiring as tidy as possible.

5. Attach each of the speakers to the posts on the amplifier.

6. Mount the kit's stereo system in an accessible place on the boat.

7. Run the stereo's audio and power wiring to the amp, and attach it to the corresponding posts.

Tips & Warnings

• Solder each of the connections on the amplifier for a more permanent and reliable connection.
• Always use caution when working around power tools and live electrical ends.

Resources

• Rock the Boat Audio (Marine Stereo Systems)
• Blue Water Ships Store (Marine Stereo Systems & Other Marine Parts)