As we continue our look at how car audio amplifiers work, let’s discuss how the classic Class AB amplifier output stage works and explain why it’s still the benchmark for high-end audio systems. How Does a Class AB Output Stage Work? We recently looked at the power supply, the input stage and how Class D […]
Car Audio
Radio Upgrade for San Jose Ford Mustang
A client from San Jose was referred to California Car Sounds and Tint by the local Ford dealership for assistance in having a CarPlay-equipped radio installed in his son’s 2019 Ford Mustang. The client wanted to be sure that the vehicle was equipped with a safe way for his son to communicate with friends while […]
Tools of the Trade – The RTA
Our series on the tools that are important to test and configure car audio system upgrades moves to the topic of the real-time audio analyzer, also known as an RTA or spectrum analyzer. This important tool helps installers measure the acoustic response of your mobile audio system, and it can be a fundamental component in […]
How Does a Car Audio Amplifier Work? – The Class D Output Stage
As we continue our look at how at how car audio amplifiers work, we need to discuss what has become the most popular design on the market today: amplifiers that use a Class D output stage. In audiophile realms, Class D designs often carry an unfavorable reputation. Do their drawbacks outweigh their benefits? Let’s have […]
Is Turning Up the Bass on Your Car Stereo a Good Idea?
If there’s one thing that can add emotion and excitement to your music, it’s adding a little more bass. Bass frequencies, especially those below 80 Hz, can be felt as much as heard at a higher volume level. The tingling in your amps and vibration in your back make a night at a club, your […]
Tools of the Trade – The Oscilloscope
Our series of articles on what tools are important to test and configure a car audio system upgrade moves on to the oscilloscope. Tools like digital voltmeters, real-time audio analyzers and, of course, hand tools such as screwdrivers, side cutters, wire strippers and a socket set each have their place and importance. When it comes […]
Understanding Specifications: Operating Voltage Tolerances and Protection Circuits
To close out our series of educational articles on amplifier specifications, we are going to talk about operating voltage limits and, by association, the protection circuits built into a car audio amplifier. In the good old days of electrical systems that were composed of an alternator, battery, switches and a couple of relays, delivering a […]
Ford Bronco Stereo Upgrade for Los Gatos Client
The owner of this classic 1972 Ford Bronco recently dropped by California Car Sounds and Tint in Campbell to inquire about a new stereo system. We’ve installed audio systems previously for this client, and he was very happy with the results. The truck had a basic radio and speakers, but he wanted a full-blown sound […]
Product Spotlight: Sony XAV-AX8000
Fans of big screens, rejoice! Sony is now shipping the XAV-AX8000 media receiver, and it comes with a massive 8.95-inch touchscreen. Designed to fit into single-DIN ISO-mount radio locations, this receiver is based on the highly respected XAV-AX5000 platform to deliver all the entertainment you could ever want in your car, truck or SUV. Flexible […]
Radio Upgrade for Santa Clara Bentley Continental
A client from Santa Clara recently contacted the team at California Car Sounds and Tint to inquire about upgrading the radio in his wife’s Bentley Continental. The client had originally contacted the local Bentley dealership. Knowing our capabilities, they referred him to us. After inspecting the vehicle and talking to the client, we put together […]