When it comes to ways to control the volume and tracking or seeking on a car radio, the three most popular options are rotary volume controls, pushbuttons and touchscreen interfaces. While many buyers focus on features like Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and backup cameras when shopping, there’s more to consider. A key and often […]
How to Properly Audition New Car Audio Speakers
There are two reasons why we’d want to upgrade the speakers in our vehicle: the original speakers may be damaged, or we want to improve the clarity of the audio system. In either case, you’re going to need to visit a local mobile enhancement retailer and choose a speaker solution that fits your vehicle, works […]
DSP 101 – How Signal Delay Can Improve Car Stereo Realism
When it comes to upgrading a car audio system with a digital signal processor, you’ll typically hear about a discussion of signal delay. Maybe people refer to this as time alignment or setting the delays. No matter what term is used, understanding the benefits and drawbacks of this technology is crucial to creating a car […]
DSP 101 – Proper Equalization Ensures Great Sound
As we roll forward with our look at the importance of digital signal processors in car audio systems, we’ll talk about the need for proper equalization. Even if you’ve purchased the best speakers available and invested in having them integrated into your vehicle with the utmost precision – compensating for the acoustic characteristics of the […]
DSP 101: The Importance of Crossover Adjustments
As we continue our deep-dive into the functions of car audio digital signal processors, we’ve reached the topic of crossovers. Many people overlook the importance of configuring crossovers properly to achieve a smooth frequency response. Let’s take a look at what a crossover does and why your technician must set them correctly to protect your […]
Product Spotlight: Sony XAV-AX8100 Media Receiver
When it comes to floating-face or T-style radios, there are more options than ever. The Sony XAV-AX8100 combines all the most sought-after features with an 8.95-inch screen that will look perfect in your dash. Whether it’s staying connected with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration or having support for all your favorite digital media […]
Upgrading Car Audio Systems with Data Bus Interfaces
As vehicle manufacturers work to reduce the number of wires that need to be run in a vehicle, more and more have switched to using the vehicle data bus to control amplifiers. Using data commands in concert with digital or fixed-level audio signals also helps to ensure that these audio systems deliver noise-free performance. Finally, […]
OEM Audio 101: Does It Matter if My Factory Radio Has All-Pass Filters?
If you’re planning on having someone upgrade the stereo system in a late-model car or truck, you need to know about all-pass filters. Sometimes called phase EQ or phase rotator filters, this type of signal processing is used in multichannel audio systems to help deliver improved frequency response at the listening position. The concept can […]
DSP 101: Input Connections and Signal Mixing
When it comes to feeding a signal into a digital signal processor, most high-quality units provide your installer with a few options. While even the most basic include RCA inputs, some add the ability to accept speaker-level signals or digital signals in a variety of formats. Once an audio signal is inside the processor, the […]
Not All Car Audio Sound Deadening Is the Same
When it comes to choosing sound deadening, not every option on the market is the same quality. Different materials, varying thicknesses of butyl and aluminum, and options for foam or lead mean that some research is required before you settle on a solution. In this article, we’ll explain what to look for and what to […]