When upgrading a sound system, especially in the event you don’t know audio equipment well, it can be tough to find matching equipment or high end equipment for that matter.
Some of the best places to go for audio equipment include Best Buy, EBay, Craigslist or any type of local classifieds. Just remember that if you buy second hand, you need to make sure the equipment is in working condition.
One of the best upgrades for people looking to buy a new audio receiver is installing a DVD/CD head unit. Most modern DVD ready receivers include a built-in LCD screen for watching media playback. They often allow users to completely customize the display screen as well, with personal wallpapers, screensavers, or themes. Some good DVD head unit prospects include:
- Pioneer 7000DVD series
- Boss BV head unit models
- Alpine DVD receivers
- XOVision XOD series
- Sony Xplod head units and receivers.
Not everyone is looking to install a DVD receiver in their auto, therefore, a regular CD receiver will make due. Some great CD receiver models include:
- Pioneer DEH-P5100UB
- Sony MEX-BT5700U
- Kenwood Excelon KDC-X991
- JVC KD-HDR50
- XOVision XOD9114
In last week’s article I also mentioned some alternatives for upgrading car audio equipment including AM/FM radio transmitters and similar devices, which allow greater functionality for your stereo, including iPod or MP3 support. The best way possible to connect an iPod or MP3 player is through the AUX input on the receiver unit. This allows higher quality output without a downgrade to FMÂ radio quality sound. If your receiver unit has no AUX input, then an FM transmitter is the next option. Some great devices or examples include:
- Griffin iTrip
- Belkin Tunecast
- MacAlly FM Cup
- Radian iBlast
- DLO Transpod
Of course, the final audio equipment upgrade involves replacing the stock speakers with custom or aftermarket brands. In many cases this will improve sound quality greatly, as long as the stock or current receiver unit installed outputs high quality sound. In some instances, users won’t benefit from this upgrade if they have a low-end receiver unit. Some great examples of aftermarket speaker models include:
- Sony XPlod Series
- Alpine Type-R Speakers
- Boston Acoustics SX series
- JBL Power Series
Of course, options aren’t limited to what has been noted here. There are plenty more high end audio options available. Keep looking, and don’t settle until you find exactly what you want. Remember to test out the equipment you’re going to install before you find out the hard way that everything you want to upgrade is incompatible.
