If you’re looking for a great car audio system and would like to build your own, there are a few things to keep in mind. Building your own system can be very rewarding but also very challenging. Many audio components are designed for certain vehicles, which can make it difficult to fit them into the spaces you want them to occupy. It will be entirely up to you if you want to replace some of the various components you can or if you want to do it all at once.

Your receiver (or head unit as they are also called) is the first thing you should consider. Many times you can keep your factory issued receiver. The downside to this is that it may or may not, with emphasis on what it may not, is that many receivers do not come equipped with pre-outs from the factory. This means you wouldn’t be able to use external amps unless you used speaker level to line level converters. The downside to this is that you can lose a lot of the sound quality. Another point to keep in mind is that the chassis size of your car audio system receiver can make a difference as to which receiver you can use. Two of the top units sold today include standard and oversized models. The correct name for a standard size stereo is known as a single DIN. Large receiver models are called double or 1.5 DIN. The last thing to think about when it comes to your receiver is whether you want to have one that comes with a CD player, MP3 capability, or even Bluetooth capability.

The downside to this is that you can lose a lot of the sound quality. Another point to keep in mind is that the chassis size of your car audio system receiver can make a difference as to which receiver you can use. Two of the top units sold today include standard and oversized models. The correct name for a standard size stereo is known as a single DIN. Large receiver models are called double or 1.5 DIN. The last thing to think about when it comes to your receiver is whether you want to have one that comes with a CD player, MP3 capability, or even Bluetooth capability.

The next pieces of equipment to consider are subwoofers. If you’re looking to install subs in your vehicle, you’ll need to make sure you have the correct amount of space for the ones you want to install. Subwoofers must be contained in a cabinet when installed. There are some manufacturers that already sell their subwoofers and cabinets, which can make this step much easier.

The following are the speakers of your car audio system. Without a great set of speakers, your new components will be worthless. You need to consider several different options, including the shape, size, and placement of your other components. Another important factor is what type of placement you want for your speakers. For the best possible sound, you should consider placing speakers in the front, center, and rear of your vehicle. Some of these may also need to have an enclosure installed around them. This will help prevent possible damage.

The last item to take care of is your amplifier. You may need an external amplifier to cover the power needs of the subwoofer as it can use a lot more juice. Also, your receiver may or may not be equipped with built-in amplifiers. Now that you have an idea of ​​what’s involved, you’re all set. Whether you install your own car audio system or have someone else install it, you’ll soon have a great sound system to be proud of. Enjoy!