In our ongoing series of articles about car audio electrical theory, we are going to introduce the concept of alternating current power sources and signals. Understanding the basics of AC is crucial to understanding how a mobile audio system works. This article uses a lot of references to the electricity delivery systems used in our […]
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Car Audio Electrical Theory — The Basics and Ohm’s Law
For several years, the Best Car Audio team has provided articles on the features, functions and benefits of all manner of car audio products and services. Well into our third year, it’s time to go back to the basics and talk about the fundamental theories of electricity and how they relate to our car audio […]
Understanding Sound and the Decibel
In any discussion about understanding sound, the unit of decibels will undoubtedly become part of the conversation. Unlike almost all other units of measurement, the decibel is not a linear scale. That is to say, 1 decibel (also written as dB) is not one-tenth the amplitude or strength of 10dB. In this article, we’ll explain […]
The Five Fastest Ways To Blow Your Car Speakers
There is nothing worse than turning up your music only to hear your car speakers or subwoofers rattle and buzz because they are damaged. Well, there is something worse: You could turn up the volume and hear nothing at all. We hear stories about people damaging their car speakers all the time. In almost every […]
Product Spotlight: Sony XAV-AX1000
If you are looking for a multimedia receiver for your car or truck with a bright, clear screen and Apple CarPlay smartphone integration, then you’ll want to check out the Sony XAV-AX1000. Equipped with a 6.2-inch, touch-sensitive display and rotary volume control on the front panel, the XAV-AX1000 looks great while being easy and intuitive […]
How to Shop for Car Audio Upgrades
Shopping for car audio upgrades is as personal as shopping for a new car or new shoes. Each of us likes something different, has a different budget and different performance and style preferences. In the case of a new car, your options range from a solid and reliable daily driver in the $14,000 range to […]
Aftermarket Collision Avoidance Technologies
Automakers constantly strive to make new cars, trucks and SUVs as safe as possible. The design and materials used in new vehicle chassis make them stronger, more rigid and safer than ever before. Technologies like backup cameras, blind spot monitoring, active lane keep assist, multi-view camera systems, rear cross traffic alerts and autonomous braking dramatically […]
Product Spotlight: Sony XAV-AX210SXM
One of the most recent source unit introductions from Sony Car Audio is the XAV-AX210SXM DVD receiver. This multimedia receiver features a 6.4-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration. It’s the first Sony product to include iDatalink Maestro compatibility. Let’s look at the features of this high-value source unit and explain how […]
Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto
Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone integration systems are extremely popular features found in aftermarket source units from all the key brands. The technology behind CarPlay and Android Auto continue to evolve, and in the summer of 2017, the aftermarket industry saw the introduction of wireless CarPlay connectivity. Android followed suit in 2018 with a […]
Pre-Owned Vehicle Backup Camera and Safety Systems
Back over accidents are responsible for more than 200 deaths and 12,000 injuries each year. The US Congress passed a law in 2008 that would enact measures to use technology to prevent accidents like these. After years of delays, the US Department of Transportation finally announced that new cars must come with a backup camera. […]