7. Car audio


One of the first upgrades most individuals make when looking at an audio system is to upgrade there headunit. This is part where your radio/CD/tape player is located. Most of the more modern headunits include a CD player and some also play MP3’s. One of the more important aspects when looking at these units is the number and kind of outputs on the back of the unit that allows you to plug in other accessories.


Other components that are often upgraded include speakers. In most Honda’s you have a front and rear pair of speakers. A good upgrade is to change your front speakers to include a crossover and tweeter (these produce a different sound to the regular speakers). Depending on your car, you may choose to go with a 6 or 6.5 inch front speaker and a 6x9 rear speaker (these are essentially differently shaped and therefore produce a different amount and type of sound).



Another alternative is to place a subwoofer in your car. These produce large amounts of low end base. It is important to recognise that when upgrading your system with a sub you will need more power to make the sub run – so you will also need an amplifier. Different size subs will require different size amps to power them.



One aspect that is often overlooked is wiring. While I don’t personally know a lot about this subject, it should not be overlooked especially for those that want to produce a clean crisp sound.



The latest trend is to install a screen in your car. These can range from small (like the 3” screen seen in the JVC headunit), to much larger 5-6”. Lots of accessories can be run through these units including, PC’s, Game stations (Xbox ete) and engine data. The cost of screens has come down a large amount since they were first introduced, but choosing to install one is a personal preference.



Like with other of the modifications mentioned, there is an extensive range of products both in speakers, headunits, screens and the like. It requires a fair amount of research to determine what will meet your needs.



^^Cant add this to the first post as it is to long .