Car Audio Amplifiers

Car audio amplifiers, to a large extent, determine the final audio output of your car audio. Selecting a location for the amplifier is therefore of great importance. Select a location that has good air circulation. It could be in the trunk or under a seat. It is always recommended that you use cables with larger diameters like RCA cables to connect the low level output of the radio to the low level input of the amplifier. Just in case your radio does not have a low level output, you will have to use a high-level speaker output. This arrangement is not preferred by most because of the noticeable increase in sound distortion. This arrangement works best when your amplifier is meant for bass only.

Another thing to take care of is the connection between the power antenna lead from the back of the radio to the amplifier. One can go through the user manual to find out the recommended gauge size for getting the right power and ground cables. It is always recommended that you connect the ground power cables before the RCA cables, to avoid damage.

A good fuse should be a priority for the system. Check the owner's manual for the proper rating of the fuse. Another important thing to note while installing amplifiers is that to ensure that the power cables do not run next to the RCA signal cables. If the cables are too close, it may lead to unwanted noise. If you have noise you are not able to stop, try using a noise filter. It can cut down the noise to negligible levels. The gauge cables for the amplifier ground or negative and the amplifier battery or positive should be the same.

Try to place your amplifier on some solid piece of metal, either in the body or the frame of your car. This is an important process, because most of modern day cars are built with fiberglass and finding a good ground conductor is always that much more difficult.

Professional help is always preferable when it comes to car audio installation. You can also find valuable tips on car audio installation by visiting online resources on the topic.

Car Audio provides detailed information on Car Audio, Discount Car Audio, Wholesale Car Audio, Car Audio Systems and more. Car Audio is affiliated with Car Stereo Installations.

By Peter Emerson

MP3 Car Stereos

MP3 car stereos play audio CDs, CD-R/RW discs and MP3 files. MP3 car stereos can play long hours of digital music. The key features of these stereos include programmable track memory, digital anti-skip memory, and professional digital stereo headphones. These players allow you to skip, search, play, pause, and repeat. MP3 car stereos are provided with AM/FM tuners that can store a number of FM and AM stations.

The leader of in-car MP3 technology is Kenwood, so a product from this company is a safe buy. Kenwood's KRC-M4524 is a very cost-effective entry-level MP3 player. Blaupunkt and Sony are other well known manufacturers of quality MP3 car stereos. Other brands to choose from are Pioneer, JVC, Alpine, Panasonic, Philips and Sanyo.

MP3 car stereos have high quality audio and require very little space for installation. Today, MP3 car stereos have SD, USB and iPod connections to provide better services.

When buying an MP3 car stereo, there are a few points to bear in mind. The first and foremost feature one should look for is the power of the stereo. Another standard feature is a detachable front panel, which ensures the security of your stereo. Other important elements are the cost and brand. An MP3 car stereo with a high-level output and a fader is ideal. A stereo with a high-level output will allow you to adjust the relative volume of the front and rear speakers. MP3 car stereos with four channels can drive four speakers.

MP3 car stereo prices range from $120 to $750.

Car Stereos provides detailed information on Car Stereos, Car Stereo Systems, Car Stereo Installations, Car Stereo Speakers and more. Car Stereos is affiliated with Wholesale Car Audio.
By Jason Gluckman

Car Speaker Noise -- How To Eliminate It

There are several noise sources in a car audio setup. In this article, I’ll talk about one where your car speakers produce noise that seems to increase when you “rev” the engine. You’ll get to learn how to eliminate that annoying noise and enjoy your music.

First, you must understand that this is simply interference or induced noise. Induced noise can sound like clicking, popping, whirring, buzzing, whistling, or whining. This noise always has a source such as the alternator, car power wiring, amplifier, etc. So this means that the problem can be tackled at the source. Now, you just have to find it.

Power line noise problems (such as those from alternators) can be fixed by adding a capacitor or power line filter to the live source of the suspect component.

Another area to investigate is the earth, also known as ground wire, to the rear of the radio or head unit. Try running a new earth or ground wire from the rear of the radio to a new position (earth) on the car’s chassis, replacing the existing earth wire.

If you have installed an amplifier, ensure that the RCA cables running from the head unit to the amplifier are of good quality. Also make sure they are run along the car away from the car’s existing wiring and away from the amplifier's power cable. For the sake of testing, try running the RCA lead loosely between the head unit and the amplifier without actually running them under the carpet. “Rev” your engine with the radio on low volume and see if the noise is gone.

If you still have the noise, consult a car audio expert. There are a few things in car audio that require expert assessment. There could be a compound issue. A good car audio expert is better equipped to diagnose the problem.

Go to this site: car-audio-products-and-accessories.com and read on car speakers.

However, if you choose to use the pros, go here for a professional installer if you're in the UK.

Chimezirim Odimba writes for CarAudioPlus.
By Chimezirim Chinecherem Odimba

Car Audio System -- A New Buyer's Guide

You have several options if you want to improve your current car audio system. The market is flooded with car audio systems and choosing the right one for your car can be a tough task. However, with a few guiding tips, you'll be all set to choose the right audio system for your car.

There are some fundamental guiding tips that can make the process of selecting the right car audio system very painless.

First and foremost you must check the capacity of your pocket. You must buy an audio system that does not burn a hole in your pocket.

Your preference matters a lot. You can either choose a system which gives you ultimate sound quality or go for a simple and basic system.

It is essential that the new car audio system is extremely user-friendly. The system must have large and well-spaced buttons to enable easy and smooth operation. The system must be such that ensures minimum distraction.

The car audio system must also have a proper display. The display must be large, clear and well informative.

A car audio system must have a head unit which shows all the pertinent data for the convenience of the user.

The system must have a powerful amplifier. Without a high quality amplifier, even a new car audio system will not give the highest quality you can get from it.

It is always good to have car audio systems that have separate tweeters. Users must make sure that the tweeters are properly positioned for the best results.

A separate sub woofer to the car audio system would provide that extra rumble to the system.

These are the basics. There are more to an audio system but those are certainly not for a new enthusiast. However, if you keep these very basic factors in mind, buying a good car audio system would surely be a pleasurable experience. Make sure driving your car is also a treat to your ears.

Visit car-audio-products-and-accessories.com to read more car audio articles. Check CarAudioPlus for your car audio products and accessories.

Chimezirim Odimba writes for CarAudioPlus.
By Chimezirim Chinecherem Odimba

Car Stereo Cd Changers - Stereo Is The Way To Go

'Car audio' is a general term describing the sound system fitted inside an automobile. Similarly, the term 'stock car audio system' refers to the sound system specified by the manufacturer when the car was built. A custom car audio installation, on the other hand, can involve anything from upgrading of the radio head-unit to a full-scale modification of the car based around its audio equipment - such as subwoofers, stereo CD changers, etc..

A head unit usually consists of a combination of a radio, tape player, or CD/DVD player. Newer head units are now emphasizing on digital music support (MP3, WMA, and AAC formats) and USB, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi connectivity.

Most modern cars include at least a CD player/ CD recorder, and some have the option for car stereo CD changers, which hold multiple disks either in the head unit itself or in a separate unit usually located in a trunk or console. The main types of CD changers are External Cartridge, Internal Cartridge and Carousel CD changers.

The stereophonic sound, commonly called stereo, is the independent reproduction of the sound using two or more channels audio in way to create a natural impression of the heard sound from several directions, similar to that one in the natural hearing. In popular use, stereo audio of the car means generally the recording of 2 sounds on 2 channels and the reproduction of the sound using the data for more than a loudspeaker simultaneously.

Before stereo radio, speakers were often located in the middle of the dashboard through perforations pointed at the front windshield. When stereo systems became available, car audio speakers came to be located in doors and in the rear of the vehicle in parcel shelves. In modern cars, kick panel enclosures are used for high-end and competition stereo systems and allow for larger drivers and better driver placement.

The amplifiers are used to drive the speakers. These provide the necessary music power, which is measured in watts. An amplifier is a very important component of good car audio speakers system. One should always ensure that the total power handling capacity of the speakers connected to the amplifier or head unit is greater than the power of the amplifier or head unit.

Custom car audio installation can involve anything from upgrading the radio to a full-blown customization. CD players/ CD recorders are standard in most vehicles. The most common types of car stereo CD changers are External Cartridge, Internal Cartridge and Carousel CD changers. Stereo uses two or more audio channels so that the sound appears to come from various directions. Car audio stereos typically use two channels, each providing data for several speakers at the same time. To drive car audio speakers you have that have an amplifier. Be sure that the total handling capacity of the speaker which is connected to the amplifier is greater than the power amplifier.
By Menachem Green

Tips For Personalizing Your Car Audio System

If you're like many people with their own car, you no doubt like to personalize certain aspects of it's interior or exterior from time to time. From after-market alloy wheels to designer seat covers, personalization is something that most car owners do at some point to stamp their personality on their car and make it their own.

One of the most popular ways to tailor your cars specification to your driving and personal style is to add or customize the in-car audio system. Whether it is a new car or one bought second hand, many people make the decision to personalize the audio components in their car to reflect their personal tastes and enhance the quality of the music experience where possible. From simply adding a CD player to completely upgrading the sound system to a DVD audio visual entertainment package, there are a variety of options for most tastes and budgets.

Whilst there are numerous retail stores both on and off line that sell vast ranges of car audio equipment, to get the best value for your money, you may want to consider purchasing wholesale car audio equipment. Many people may believe that buying car audio products wholesale requires buying in quantity, but this is not always true. Through car audio wholesale companies you are able to purchase different car audio components to allow your car audio system perform at its maximum potential.

Unless you have purchased defective parts or just simply ordered the wrong parts for your audio system model, you shouldn't have any problems. To prevent this, ensure you have the precise specifications of your existing audio system together with exact details of any add-on components you wish to fit. Following this one very simple step will ensure that you receive the components that are right and compatible for your car audio system first time.

When looking to purchase car audio equipment from wholesale suppliers, a few things you may want to check on is the warranties or guarantees that are available as well as the exchange policy. This information can save you wasted time and money if you purchase defective parts or ones that are not compatible with your car or model of audio system.

Once you have received your car audio components all you need to do is have them installed correctly into your audio system. If you have the technical expertise to fit audio components you will save money and be sure of a good job but, first ensure that you are not invalidating any warranties by customizing the system yourself. Some manufacturers require that systems are fitted professionally to maintain the standard warranties. So to get the maximum potential from your customized system it is essential that they are installed correctly.

After the components are installed check out the performance of your newly personalized audio system, if results are satisfactory, you can add the car audio wholesale dealer to your list of reliable car audio dealers for any future improvements you might make.
Author: Dave Richards

Car Seat Safety

Let me start by saying that I was a certified technician for child restraint systems for six years. During that time I personally inspected approximately six thousand car seats. I’ve inspected everything from infant carriers to booster units for bigger kids. I guess you could say that qualifies me as an expert.

Every one of those seats came with a parent. Parents are people and as we all know, some people will do it right and read the instructions. They even seek out professionals to inspect and teach them. Then there are parents that look at a seat and think how hard can this be; it’s just a car seat, and in it goes. They will even invent ways to secure it. Believe me, they can get very imaginative.

You should purchase your seat at least one month ahead of the birth. See a professional certified technician and learn to use your equipment so every ride is a safe ride.

Every seat meets a federal standard, so have no fear when you buy your seat. The thing you need to look for is a seat that is user friendly.

If you can easily install it in a vehicle and apply the straps to your little one, you will no doubt be more confident when you use the equipment. Some seats are so poorly designed that nobody can manage the straps. They don’t fit in the car well and are very difficult to get tight in a car.

Remember every seat is safe. No matter what you chose, you have a tested safety apparatus. But all seats are not created equal.

To start your child safety choices, I recommend the Snug Ride infant car seat by Graco. I recommend this seat because it is easy to install and easy to use. The straps work nicely and have very little drag. Do not install all types of aftermarket items in the seat. They are really unnecessary and can dramatically reduce the safe functioning of the seat. In this case, less is more.

The next stage would be your convertible seat. That means it faces both rear and forward. This transition to the larger seat is another area that many fall prey to. Never just face the baby forward even though they may be 20 pounds but only 8 months old. This is a huge mistake. When forward facing, the child should be at least 1 year of age AND 20 pounds. The reason for that is that the body must have the strength to take the G forces created in a crash. This can only happen with time for the body to mature and be stronger. The two models that I like for this stage are - the Roundabout and the Marathon by Britax. These two offer the parent great features and benefits plus ease of use that is unsurpassed.

Next they will be moving to booster seats. This is still a necessity to improve the results in safety if there were a crash. When you’re done with your convertible seat, move to a booster seat. I recommend the Compass B-500. It’s an excellent seat made from polystyrene and is comfortable and user friendly.

I have heard parents say they felt it was just a waste of money to keep buying seats until the age of at least 8 years old and 80 pounds, but if you want to give your child a reasonable chance of surviving an accident and reducing the chance of being severely injured, a booster is a must.

Use child safety restraints, use them correctly and learn how to use them from a professional certified technician.

Make every ride for your children the ride of their lives.
by: Ken White

Hybrid Cars Save Money

Hybrid Cars Save Money If you have been sitting on the fence about deciding to purchase a Hybrid car, you no longer have any excuse to be squeamish. Consumer Reports just released a study this August that confirms that Hybrid cars will in fact save you money over the long run.

The combination of generous tax credits along with the fuel saving nature of these vehicles is what makes them a good long term value. The difference in up front cost between a hybrid and its traditional counterpart is often between $1200 and $7000. Thats a wide gap, and can be enough to leave you wondering if its worth it.

The good news is that if you act fast and purchase your new Hybrid car before the tax credits phase out in 2007, alot of that upfront additional cost will come back to you in the form of a tax credit. Meanwhile, you will enjoy long term savings on fuel costs.

Did you know that as of 2006, Hybrids account for only 1% of new car sales in the US? As gas prices rise, the ratio will likely change as people seek to cut costs out of rising fuel prices. Unfortunately, if you wait too long you will no longer be able to take advantage of the tax credits that are being phased out. If you are considering purchasing a Hybrid car, you are better to do it now.

The study, conducted by Consumer Reports assumes that you keep your Hybrid car for several years, long enough to notice the difference in cost of filling up. Of course, the more you drive to work, school, or on vacation, the faster and greater your savings will add up.

If you are researching Hybrid cars, be sure to check out http://www.hybridrevolution.org This site lists updated information on all makes and models of Hybrids available and soon to be available.
by: Amber Lowery

What Are The Benefits Of Hybrid Cars?

These days no one wants to buy a car that eats up dollars at the gas pump. A hybrid offers as much fuel efficiency as possible through its design and technology. Depending on the model, hybrid cars can give their owners anywhere from 20 to 60mpg. They also have a good performance rating and a smooth ride without the gas drain.

Its in the automakers interest to produce these hybrids for the US market, since by law Automakers are mandated to keep the “Corporate Average Fuel Economy Standard” or CAFÉ for short. Currently, the CAFÉ standard for all vehicles sold to consumers is 27.8mpg (8.55 liters per 100km). So if a car company can sell a hybrid with a mileage of 60mpg ( 3.92 liters per 100km) they can put 4 more large expensive luxury cars which give much less mileage on the market without violating CAFÉ.

In order to get the best mileage out of the hybrid, the car makers rely on optimizing the weight, the size and the aerodynamics. The weight is dramatically reduced by making the body out of light aluminum. The engine’s weight and height are also decreased. Materials such as carbon fiber and magnesium are also used in different models. The Honda Insight for example, which is about 1900 pounds (862kg) is less than half of what a traditional car weighs.

And a small efficient engine saves on energy, particularly when moving up and incline. A big engine uses more cylinders and puts those cylinders through more work and needs more gas. If you look at the Honda Insight, its engine weighs about 124 pounds (56kg) and contains only a 1 liter 3 cylinder engine. So it can produce 67 horsepower at 5700rpm. On top of that, there is the VTEC system and lean burn technology installed.

Another area that helps maximize the fuel efficiency of a hybrid is the use of advanced aerodynamics. When you are driving on a busy stretch of road, it’s the engine that provides the power needed to move the vehicle against force of the air. That force is called “aerodynamic drag”. This drag is minimized in two ways. First, the hybrid is designed to have a smaller frontal area and second, all protruding objects are reduced. Covers are put on the wheels and some hybrids have small cameras in place of mirrors.
by: Jackson Porter

Hybrid Cars

A regular car uses an internal combustion engine with a fuel-air mixture powering it. A hybrid car on the other hand powers itself not only using the conventional means but it also uses a variety of alternate means like fuel-cells and solar-energy to turn the wheels. That makes it more environment friendly and increases its mileage.

Some people think that hybrid cars are the cars of the future. They say it is what we will be driving in a ten years time. It is true that hybrid cars have many advantages. But we must not forget the shortcomings of the hybrid car.

Gas and oil are non renewable sources of energy. They also cause much damage to the environment. There is a danger they might soon also be depleted from the earth. On the other hand, hybrid cars are environment friendly. They source of energy they use is renewable and therefore they pose much less threat to the world. Hybrid cars are efficient and save money on fueling.

Performance wise, hybrid cars are rubbish. At the stage they currently are, they are more than likely to break down after traveling every few miles. If you buy a hybrid car, leave for office an hour earlier than you used to before, because hybrid cars are much slower than normal cars. Because they have very less energy to run with, they are made with as light bodies as possible. We want to protect the environment to protect our children. But if you're planning to buy them a hybrid car to do so, the chances of them being flattened by some bigger car are far more. So if you want to keep your children safe, why not buy them a Land Rover instead? And then there's the matter of power again. With the amount of power a hybrid can provide, imagine the trouble and time it would take for you to reach a high altitude point with a fairly steep road, that is, if you would ever manage to get up there on that car.

Whether hybrid cars will be the future of the car industry, one cannot say for sure. But one thing is certain, where it stands today is quite for from a point where it will replace the petrol or gas powered cars.
by: Jonathon Hardcastle

Top 5 RC Car Accessories

RC cars are one of the hottest hobbies going but to keep your vehicle in top condition you need to have a stock of standard equipment to maintain your car. There are also great RC car accessories that can add to the experience and get you up and running more easily.

You don’t want to be left on the sidelines because you can’t get your vehicle started or perform a quick maintenance on the spot. Here are the top five accessories every RC enthusiast should check out…

Starter Boxes

Need help starting your engines? Starter boxes can give you the boost needed to break in your new RC vehicle or just make the starting process easier.

The starter box will eliminate the need to pull-start your RC nitro car. Some car models are more difficult than others to pull start and having a starter box removes the problem and gets your vehicle going in no time.

RC Tools

Specialized tools help you keep your vehicle in top form. Some of the recommended additions to your standard tool box are:

Magnetic Balancer: reduce wear and tear on your RC vehicle by ensuring that rotating parts are properly balanced. Ideal for balancing new tires before hitting the road.

Gear Puller: avoid stripping the set screws by using a gear puller.

Temperature Gauge: test the temperature while tuning your engine without risking a burn.

Tool Pouch: keep all your tools handy and organized to make pit stops and tuning an easier task.

Glow Plug Wrench: makes the necessary task of changing glow plugs easier and quicker.

Glow Plugs

You will definitely need spare glow plugs on hand otherwise you may have to cut your driving time short if your glow plugs fail. Even new plugs can be faulty so having a small kit that includes a glow plug igniter, charger, spare glow plugs and a glow plug wrench is a good idea so that you can make a change on the course instead of ending the fun.

Fuel

If you’re going to drive a nitro car you’re going to need fuel. The fuel used for RC nitro cars is specially designed for optimum performance. Using the fuel recommended in your owner’s manual will provide your vehicle with exactly the right combination of synthetic and castor oils.

To make fueling easier you can select a fuel filler bottle that fits your needs. Several sizes are available and they are equipped with long, angled tips to speed up the refueling process and prevent spills.

Always keep your fuel tightly capped since moisture will quickly be absorbed from the air and ruin the fuel. You might also consider including a fuel cleaner and rags in your stash to clean up any spills and drips.

Air Filter Oil

Treating your nitro car’s air filter with special air filter oil will improve the ability of the filter to keep out dust and dirt while also extending the life of your car’s engine. Over or under oiling the filter will affect the performance and possibly damage the engine. Only use the oil specified for your type of filter since using the wrong oil can disintegrate the filter.

Be sure to let your oiled air filter dry for up to half an hour before installing it to avoid the excess oil from choking the system. Carry pre-oiled filters for changes rather than using a recently oiled filter or dry filter.

These are a few of the recommend RC car accessories you should be sure to keep with you when racing or just playing around with your RC vehicle. You will find many more products that are designed to help you fix or add on to your vehicle by shopping online or at your local hobby shop.
by: Greg Root

Car Accessories: Necessity of Both the New and Used Cars

One of the easiest ways of making your car look swanky is to add some accessories to it. The market is fraught with cool and cute kits that can increase the glamour of an auto to a greater degree. Manufactured in nice designs and available in fluorescent colours, these car accessories are sold at reasonable price. Whether a flashy new car or a used one is to be decorated, there are accessories that will match with its design and jell with its colour.

Yet, not all car accessories are meant for beautifying a set of wheels. Some car accessories are for the purpose of security. Some others are there for sheer necessity. Without both these type of add-ons, a car will remain far from being a pleasure to drive. Without adequate security kits, you may have to be in tension while driving the car. Sans the exigent ones, you will fail to feel at home.

One accessory that is exigent for the car but not contribute that much in accentuating it is floor mats. Without car mats the floor of the car is most likely to be damaged. There lies the danger of liquid falling on the floor and cause rusting. This ultimately results in the damage of the floor. Putting some good quality mats on the floor of the car is the best way to overcome this threat.

If you feel that your car need some add-ons but you do not have time to go to the market and buy the necessary accessories, you can log on to the internet. A plethora of options will be there for you on car accessories. A number of online shops deal in auto kits. Simply browsing through the sites of a few of them, you can gather enough knowledge as to which accessory to buy and how to buy them at the best price.
by: Alexus Devon

Pioneer Car Audio Mp3 What To Look For When Purchasing

When choosing a pioneer car audio MP3 it’s important to address a few key questions.

How much do you want to spend? What features are most important to you?

An MP3 is a way to encode audio that compresses data so it can store a lot more of it while keeping a high standard of quality. Pioneer has a long-standing reputation for quality and also for being one of the easiest car audio systems to install and use. They make a range of car audio that can play MP3’s, including the lower end DEH-P3700MP for a little over $100 to the AVICD1 navigation system for about $1,600. If you are looking for a basic system to play CD’s and MP3’s, a simpler system will be fine. But, if you want more features like navigation or a DVD player you will pay a lot more for a higher end system.

One of the most important things to look for is how you are going to navigate through all of your MP3 files, especially while driving.

If you have a large library of music, you will need to find an MP3 player that makes browsing through the discs as easy as possible. Many discs can hold up to about 250 songs, and it’s crucial that you can find exactly what you’re looking for as quickly as possible. One of the most reasonably priced MP3 player’s Pioneer makes is the DEH-P5500M, which costs around $270 and allows you to organize files by artist, track, folder name, file name, and album. It also has satellite radio and CD changer controls. It’s also imperative that you check that the discs you use on your computer for music are compatible with the ones for the MP3 player, otherwise you might end up with a library of music that won’t play in your car. ID tags to identify songs must be a certain version compatible with the car’s system, or you’ll end up with a lot of unusable music. If you figure out what you’re looking for, you can make an educated decision about which system will best suit your budget and your listening needs.
by: James Southall Jr.

Find Car Auction Bargains Online

If you are someone that is looking for a new kind of vehicle and you need to get it really cheap then you are definitely having a hard time finding what you want. You have to buy a really safe car that you can trust but it also has to look good so that you will enjoy driving it and so that you will not feel like you wasted an investment on something you do not even like. If you are having trouble finding everything you need out at car dealerships or in the newspaper then you need to start exploring other options that could definitely be to your benefit. If you start looking online for cars then you will really hit the jackpot because there are a lot of amazing deals that will blow you away and you will hardly be able to believe them.

Besides just looking online for cars, you should research local car auctions because there is a lot that you will discover about buying cars. You can find information about vehicle auctions where you can get government seized cars for up to ninety five percent off the retail value of the actual price but still get a vehicle of high quality and stunning looks. All makes and models are represented and there are listing in every city in the country to make this online tool even more useful for you because you can get exactly what you want for a price that you never expected. The prices that you will find for these cars are way too good to be true, but you have to believe that they are.

The reason you can get really cheap cars is because of extenuating circumstances. These situations include cars that have been seized by the IRS, the police, and other government branches. Also, a lot of them have fallen into government control because of seizure and surplus laws. This means that the number of vehicles imported is greater than the amount of vehicles that the public needed to purchase; basically a supply and demand principle that applies to a lot of other items besides cars. What happens is that the government does not want to suffer the cost of storing all these large cars, SUVs, limos, buses, boats, and other vehicles because it is very expensive to do so. So, instead of storing these vehicles and making them pretty much useless imported items they would much rather sell them for a cheap price so that they do not lose too much money. When you buy directly from the source you can save thousands of dollars.

So, what are you waiting for? You need to get on the internet right now and start searching for sites that can help you out with buying a new or used car for a really low price. You want to find local auctions where you can get awesome cars or just browse around to get a feel for the way things work and to see if it is the way you would like to purchase your next vehicle.
Joe Palladino

Choosing a Car Stereo

Choosing a car stereo can be a complicated and difficult task, especially for individuals with little knowledge on the subject. This process requires extensive research in order to determine you are receiving the best deal possible. Before going to a car stereo dealer, you may want to review and understand all the components of a car stereo. This way, you can personally choose which components you would like for your car. The following is a list of the basic components of a car stereo:

1. Decks - Car stereos cannot function without a deck. A deck constitutes any piece of equipment ranging from cassette decks and CD players to MP3s and mini discs. The deck is considered the glue that holds the car stereo together. The deck controls the overall output of the sound and allows you to control the music being played. All car stereo decks have a minimum 4-channel output for your speakers. If you want more power than what your speakers alone can hold, you may want to consider purchasing an amplifier.

2. Amplifiers – Amplifiers provide the power needed to blast the music in your car. The more powerful your amplifier is, the louder the sound system is going to be. An amplifier can have anywhere from 1 to 7 channels. The number of channels in your amplifier is the number of speakers you can hookup in a series circuit.

3. Speakers – Speakers are where the sound from the stereo is emitted. Different types of speakers are designed to produce different frequencies. Higher frequencies provide the capacity for more sound and produce a higher level sound as well. The efficiency of the speakers is what will determine how far the sound will travel. If you want the sound to travel far, you will need speakers with a higher frequency.

4. Subwoofers – Every high-tech car stereo system should have a subwoofer. Subwoofers complete the sound by providing high efficiency of low frequencies, through the bass. In other words, the subwoofer is the piece of equipment which makes the car vibrate. A subwoofer needs to be enclosed in either a box or possibly the trunk of your vehicle. Keep this is mind when budgeting the cost of your stereo system.

Now that you know the basics of how everything operates, you can ask informed questions as to which components you should have in your car.

Amy Barson works as a contributing editor for http://www.carstereos101.com – a site that offers information on car stereos and car stereo installation.
By Amy Barson

Intoduction to the Car Subwoofer

A subwoofer is the part of the audio speaker system in a home or auto system that reproduces the bass frequencies. Small speakers which are typically part of a small system will usually reproduce frequencies as low as 40 HZ particularly when the decibels rise above 100. A cone subwoofer will reproduce the bass tones from about 20 HZ down to 200 HZ, the point where the sound is as much vibration as tone.

The first known occurrence in a recording was the use of the subwoofer in "Pretzel" the Steely Dan album released after 1970 when the speakers were invented. The sound is actually produced by the drivers, which can range from 8" up to as large as 34". Typically drivers found in movie theaters, concerts, radio stations and live records in the 15 to 18 inch range. Part of the excitement of a live concert is the intense vibrations which emit from the enormous subwoofers.

A auto stereo system which comes from the factory usually does not include car audio subwoofers, aficionados of the hottest systems find they need to add aftermarket car stereo subwoofers.

INSTALLING CAR AUDIO SUBWOOFERS

It is common for subwoofers to be installed in the trunk of the car, since better sound quality is gained by separating the car subwoofers from the balance of the stereo system. The process for installing car stereo subwoofers is somewhat complicated, so it is recommended that you buy the subwoofer enclosures prefab. The first step is to remove the carpet or flooring material from the trunk and thoroughly clean the area. Apply sound deadening material such as Dynamat or Accumat to glue coated and cleaned metal of the trunk floor. Once the sound deadening material is in place, a roller will help to bond the two surfaces together, then replace the carpeting. Now it's time to place the subwoofer enclosure itself. Following the instructions for the amplifier, wire the car subwoofers into the two rear audio rear speakers.

It's wise to play around with the positioning of the subwoofer box before permanent installation is made to determine where the best sound results occur. The subwoofer boxes can face the front or rear of the automobile with different sounding results. Once you have made the decision as to where the subwoofer enclosure will be place, drill and mount the brackets in the correct place to hold the subwoofer box firmly in place.

HEARING LOSS

Some car audio subwoofers seem to be in competition to produce sound pressure levels that are dangerous to one's hearing, especially in the confines of the automobile. These cars with their sound pressure levels in the red-line area of permanent hearing loss are not able to produce good sound quality, but the quality is less important than sound pressure.

To enhance the vibratory effect of the stereo system, a new devices called subwoofer boxes which transmit vibrations when attached to furniture. These subwoofer enclosures provide the feel of the big subwoofers without attendant hearing loss.

Samantha Clark heads consumer reviews at http://www.dealsdepot.com.au One of the web's most popular Online Shopping sites.
By Samantha Clark

Car Accessories - Never To Be Ignored

Car accessories, without any doubt, can be termed to be as important as the car itself. They are the ones that make the car smooth, comfortable and attractive. The influx of a large number of car accessories in the market is testimony to the fact that car accessories indeed are the most essential components of the car. All sorts of accessories can be seen in the market from the simpler ones to the ones with flashiness and grace.

It is necessary that people understand the value of car accessories and pay extreme attention to it, and never adapts a compromising attitude towards them. Quite frankly, inferior quality car accessories would mean below par performance of the car. There are a whole lot of things that constitute car accessories. The list includes such useful and important names like roof racks, music deck, spare bulbs, tyres, seat covers and car mats.

This list hammers home the point that car accessories indeed are an important lot and as such, cannot at any cost be taken lightly. Take for instance the tyres. Everyone understands the role that tyres play in the smooth running of the car. One also knows that if inferior quality tyres are to be used, then no matter how expensive and sleek the car might be, moving in it would never be comfortable. Same goes for any other accessory.

It therefore becomes evident that though car accessories may appear to be simple things, their value can never be negated. The utility of a car, and therefore its value hinges heavily on the car accessories. They therefore should never be taken lightly.

Alexus Devon is a automobile writer specializing in automobile and car accessories products and has written authoritative articles on the Car Accessories industry. He has done his Master in Business Administration and is currently assisting directcaraccessories as a car accessories specialist.
By Alexus Devon

Car Audio Wholesale List

Anyone who makes to make it in the car audio business knows that the trick to survival (and to making profits) is in finding good wholesalers. Wholesalers can provide you with products at very cheap prices, so that you can benefit financially. If you're interested in making money through car audio, you need to put together a car audio wholesale list.

So, what's a car audio wholesale list? This is the list you're going to compile of car audio wholesalers, companies that you can contact about buying products for your car audio sales. These products can be re-sold on eBay, on your personal web site, or inside a store front that you own. And it all starts with the car audio wholesale list.

How do you go about putting together a car audio wholesale list? First, you have to find some viable car audio wholesales and familiarize yourself with the products that they offer. Don't choose a car audio wholesale that doesn't carry products you're interested in - why would you? Look only at those suppliers that have products that strike your fancy. An Internet search should yield hundreds of possibilities for you to look into.

Put all your wholesaler information into your car audio wholesale list, which should contain product information as well as pricing. Use a spreadsheet to help organize your car audio wholesale list, and be sure to include contact information on the list. The purpose of the car audio wholesale list is to allow you to get all the information you need in a glance, so keep that in mind as you put together your list. Include only those car audio wholesales whose products and pricing meet with your car audio needs.

Once you've put together your car audio wholesale list, you can access all your car audio wholesale information at once. This makes your job as a car audio retailer much easier, and will help you complete your goals that much more efficiently. Look for information online. Most car audio wholesales have their own web sites that will contain all the information you need for your car audio wholesale list. Once you work with some of these suppliers, you can add notes to your list that will help you in the future. The car audio wholesale list is a great way to keep everything organized, so you can access a supplier's information at a moment's notice.

By Emma Drosy

Setting up a Surround Sound Audio System For Your Car

For decades now, car people have always pushed their car stereos to the limit in order to produce the best sound possible. Our grandparents’ cars with their bulky and static-filled AM radios gave way to the FM broadcasts and cassette tape playing stereo’s of our parents. Now, car manufacturers are going digital with the use of not only CD players but satellite radio with MP3 playing compatibility.

The latest and hottest growing trend in car audio now is the idea of surround sound speaker systems. The thought behind it is to have all the speakers in your car set up exactly like that surround sound audio system you have in your living room. There is a reason why everyone wants one in their car. It simply sounds incredible. Here is how you can go about bringing that movie theater sound experience into your daily ride to work.


One of the first goals to check off your list is find a stereo head unit which allows you to wire in a surround-sound processor. Since the processor will be digital, your head unit needs to supply a digital signal. You will also need fiber-optic cables. They are used to transmit digital signals between the components. If you previously purchased a nice head unit but it cannot supply digital signals, get a CD changer with fiber-optic connection. Connect the processor to the CD changer but remember that unit you will not get a surround-sound effect, if you play a CD. You can always select a surround-sound processor that converts RCA signals to digital.


Make sure your car is equipped with a high-end CD changer and/or DVD unit that plays the software that carries the surround-sound signals.


You should install a five-channel amplifier that can provide power for the front speakers, the rear speakers, and the subwoofers. Each corner of the car plus the subwoofers will be separate channels.


The center channel should have a 4- to 6-inch midrange speaker and a tweeter. This type of combination should be in its own enclosure and placed in the center portion of the car’s dashboard.


You now need to install an amplifier to run the center-channel speakers. You can get away with a two-channel amplifier played bridged mono but have it contain an electronic crossover which can be outboard, or built in to the amplifiers.


You are now set to begin installing the speakers which will be in all four corners of the car. Some of the newer cars already have speaker locations work perfectly surround-sound setting. Older cars are a different story and will require a touch of imagination and some work. You’ll need to add a tweeter high on the pillar at shoulder height, while a midrange speaker is used in the factory-made opening in the door.


Now that all of your speakers are in place, set the electronic crossover for the center channel. Don't play it at full range but opt instead for about 80 Hz and up for optimal sound quality.


Once everything has been installed, adjust the system to find the perfect fit of sound quality and volume for you. Play around with the amplifier gains and then the surround sound processor for any type of tweaks you may need.

Electra Warehouse does not only offer mobile electronics, it also carries brand named pro DJ equipment and home audio equipment. Electra Warehouse strives to give each customer the best bargain mobile, home and pro dj electronics. Visit them at www.electrawarehouse.com.
By Tl Kleban

Helpful Hints to Finding the Perfect Subwoofer

When it comes to car audio, it’s all about the bass. You don’t have a real system if people standing outside your car can’t feel the thump of your audio system. That deep thump sound comes from the subwoofer and it easily one of the most exciting aspects of a car audio system.

For many first time car enthusiasts, it was that deep bass and pounding rhythms which initially drew them in. Unfortunately, factory installed OEM speakers just don’t cut it. If you want real, quality sound, you will need to shop around for a subwoofer.

Adding an aftermarket subwoofer can produce some massive results. Just adding one or more to your car’s audio system can give you the single, most significant sonic improvement possible just by adding some real bass to your music. Here are a few points to consider before purchasing a new subwoofer system.


The first thing you’ll need to do is decide where you want to install it in your car. Normally, they are put in your trunk, but a little modification, subwoofers can be put almost anywhere in your car.


Now that you know where you are going to put it in your car and an idea of about how big of a size you are looking at, decide upon how much you are willing to spend. You will be spending at least $300 for one plus installation, so it’s best to set a price limit.


Do you want to use one or two? The answer to this question depends on what type of music you listen to and how much room you have in your car for two. If you listen to music like rock or country, then you can get away with using only one subwoofer but you’re better off sound wise with installing two if rap, R&B, or techno fits your music taste.


Pick a size you want. They are commonly found in sizes ranging from 8-inch, 10-inch, 12-inch and 15-inch with the larger ones producing the lower the frequency. Now that you know the size, make a decision on what kind of enclosures the subwoofers are going in. These will play a factor in deciding the size as well.


Sensitivity of the subwoofer needs to be taken into consideration. The sensitivity is the rating of how much sound is generated for how much power is into the speaker. You typically would look for a high number since higher is better.


You’ll need to know the max wattage RMS power it can handle. The more power, the more sound that is produced. It will also be more expensive price wise, since you are going to also need an amplifier to produce all that power.


The material the cone is made of is a factor to consider. You have a choice of Kevlar, polypropylene, aluminum, or carbon fiber cone. Never ever buy one made from paper. Now that you have chosen the make of the cone, decide on the make of the surround. Rubber surrounds are the best and one made from foam work adequately. By choosing the perfect match of materials for the cone and surround, you not only improve sound but also longevity of the subwoofer.


Of all the steps, this one is the easiest and probably the most enjoyable. Sit back and enjoy the sounds of your newly installed great sounds.

Electra Warehouse does not only offer mobile electronics, it also carries brand named pro DJ equipment and home audio equipment. Electra Warehouse strives to give each customer a great one stop shop for the best bargain mobile, home and pro dj electronics. Visit them at www.electrawarehouse.com.
By Tl Kleban

How To Properly Install Your Own Car Stereo System And When You Shouldn't

Have you ever wondered if you could perform a car stereo installation yourself? The fact is that you can do it yourself, so spend that money on your hardware! Don't throw money away on labor. Besides the money savings, doing a car stereo install yourself can be a very gratifying experience, not to mention you will be able to learn a lot from it as well. Nothing quite beats the feeling of beholding your "creation" in action, operating smoothly and perfectly.

When you are installing a car stereo you have to ascertain what kind of system you're going to install in your vehicle. If you are a novice, it is better you attempt a car stereo install if it's just a simple system. You might prefer to leave the complex stuff to the audio professionals, like installing sensitive equipment such as LCD panels, motorized parts etc particularly if it calls for the creation of custom panels and such.

Receivers or head units are among the easiest to do when installing a car stereo. Fortuitously, just about all units abide by the same size standards (DIN). In a lot of cars, when the factory radio is tak en out the aftermarket radio receiver will fit in the empty hole. In many other automobiles, a special kit is called for if the factory hole is too large, or not deep enough. In a few instances the dash has to be modified by cutting it and making it larger. If this is the case for you, any car stereo store should have the kits required for the modification.

There are two main types of mounting systems in a car stereo installation. ISO mounting is when the radio can be attached to existing factory radio brackets, which is the case in most Japanese automobiles. Ring mounting is when an aftermarket radio goes with a metal ring that is mounted to the factory radio hole or with an aftermarket kit thru flexible tabs. In a lot of cars, dash and trim rings must be filed to expand the radio hole. When the ring is installed, the radio receiver slides in and is confined by snaps. In most situations, special tools are needed to remove the radio.

In a simple car stereo install, you'll likely be utilizing speakers that accommodate a factory location. Just make certain there are no gaps or holes. Occasionally constructing a wood or fiberglass baffle aids to reduce holes and brings about a much better sound. But always be mindful when using power tools close to speakers. Car stereo warranties typically don't cover holes in speakers.

A car stereo install has to be done well to deal with vibrations and other noise sources in its environment. Even though it is unimaginable to do away with these altogether, there are products that will greatly diminish the noise and rattling, especially on non-luxury automobiles. Linings, sprays and adhesive material and even carpet applied onto the panels can make huge difference.

Gregg Hall is an author living with his beautiful wife and family in Navarre Beach, Florida. Find more about car stereos as well as car care products at http://www.5starshine.com
By Gregg Hall

Knowing the Basics about Installing a Car Audio System

Can you tell the difference between a nice car and a great car? It’s easy a great will make someone’s head turn as it drives by. The same line of thinking holds true for a great car audio system. A great stereo system can get people outside the car nodding their heads to the music while a poorly put together car stereo system causes nothing but stares and laughs. The lesson in all this is to know your car audio system pieces.

A great car audio system instantly brings street-cred and something to show off. Now, not only has your stock increased with your friends but you also have raised the value of the car overall if and when you decide to sell it. Only you know what can make the perfect audio system for your own car. It is up to you to design and plan it out.

Before you can do that you should at least have an understand all of the essential components of a complete system. Here is a breakdown of the four main parts you’ll need to get started.

Before you can get started installing a brand new car audio system, you should probably have an understanding about the basics of a car stereo system. First off, it consists of four main components with all of the wiring connecting them together. The system includes the head unit, the main speakers, amplifiers for power and the subwoofers for some kick.


In case you were not aware of the terminology, the head unit is just another name for the stereo itself and is the core part of the entire system. They normally contain a cassette or CD player and installed directly into the dash. Everything else you add on to the system is all connected to the head unit through at least one pair of wires if not more. Think of the head unit as the brain of the system.


Next thing on your list to become familiar with are the car speakers. Most cars come standard with four main speakers, two in the front and two in the back. Some speakers are component speakers with each single speaker broken down into two: one for the highs and one for the bass. The speaker or channel then is connected to the head unit through speaker wire. If you are installing everything brand new, such as a new head unit and new speakers, then you should use new speaker wires for the installation too.


You can spend all the money in the world on a kicking audio system but if no one can hear it then what’s the point? For that, you are going to need some excellent subwoofers. They are what give your car audio system that deep and heavy bass which your normal, smaller speakers cannot provide. If and when you decide to add subwoofers to your system, you will need an amplifier to hook them to for its extra pop in power.


Speaking about amplifiers, you are going to need a good one if you plan on adding any additional equipment to the system other than the stereo and speakers. They provide extra muscle for the system plus a few extra channels of power for additional speakers but they are commonly used to power all the subwoofers. It is connected to the head unit through an RCA cable and directly to the car battery by a fused "hot" wire and a ground wire to the chassis of the car.

Electra Warehouse does not only offer mobile electronics, it also carries brand named pro DJ equipment and home audio equipment. Electra Warehouse strives to give each customer a great one stop shop for the best bargain mobile, home and pro dj electronics. Visit them at www.electrawarehouse.com
By Tl Kleban

Understanding Car Audio Capacitors

The audio system in our cars is an assortment of different parts. Each and every part in the system performs a specific function. It is with the co-ordination of all the parts, that you can hear the system play those fantastic tracks as you drive along. In the entire system, car audio capacitors have a significance of their own.

What are car audio capacitors?

Car audio capacitors are basically power storages in the car. These capacitors accumulate that power which is essential for the amplifier to produce great sounds. You can hear the booming bass sounds and songs with that much needed punch only because of audio capacitors. Car audio capacitors are also known as stiffening capacitors.

More on car audio capacitors

• Audio capacitors accumulate power whenever it is not required. This power is released when the demand for power exceeds the supply capacity of the power system of the car.

• Audio capacitors are necessary to supplement the regular power supply of the car in order to ensure the smooth functioning of the amplifier. Car audio capacitors usually range from 0.5 farads to 3 farads.

• You have to install a car audio capacitor that complements your amplifier. It is also necessary to place the capacitor as near as possible to the amplifier. For 500 RMS of power output, it is necessary to have an audio capacitor of 0.5 farads.

• There are also digital audio power capacitors. These can also be installed in cars. A digital audio capacitor (usually from 1.5 farads) consists of a turn on and turn off circuitry along with a 24-volt DC.

If you car lights dim when your car audio system produces a deep bass note, then your amp will be greatly helped with a car audio capacitor.

You can get your car audio capacitors at Car Audio Plus.

If you want to read more on car audio visit: car-audio-products-and-accessories.com

Chimezirim Odimba writes for CarAudioPlus.
By Chimezirim Chinecherem Odimba