3 considerations for installing a sound system in your boat
There's nothing better than spending a day out on your boat, especially when you have a great sound system in place. Before jumping into a purchase, however, it's important that you consider a few vital elements around what you need. That way, you know you're getting the perfect fit for your vessel.
Here are three questions you should ask yourself to help you figure out what you require.
What speaker installation size do you need?
If you're replacing an old sound system, you need to make sure your new speakers will fit in the vacated space. Don't just rely on the stated outside measurements for this, as there are often other factors that can influence the fit, such as the cut-out measurements.
Before buying a new sound system, remove the old one and measure the cut-out space it occupied. Look at the diameter, depth and space around the cavity then compare it to the model you're looking to purchase.
Considering the size of a speaker unit is important, even if you're not replacing an old system. If you have a specific location in mind, you want to know that you'll have enough cavity space available there for your stereo to fit.
Do you need a waterproof sound system?
You might assume that any marine sound system is going to be fully waterproof, but this generally isn't the case. Many are simply water resistant, or designed to not corrode in a humid environment. With these, your speakers are protected against only minimal spray or water splashes.
If you're placing your stereo in the cabin, this might be all you need. However, if it's in an area that is likely to get wet regularly you'll want something a bit hardier, or even something that you can move around and change where it's mounted. For example, the Fusion Stereo Active is a great choice if you're looking for something that's built for a more active lifestyle. While smaller and not an installed sound system, this speaker not only provides great audio but is both waterproof and floats.
In fact, all Fusion entertainment systems are tested to a water pressure of three metres to ensure they're able to withstand anything that comes their way.
Additionally, marine stereos are designed to handle a whole bunch of different factors that the environment chucks at them. For example, a good system will be UV light resistant. It will also be able to handle salt fog, increased levels of dust and shocks and vibrations that come with life on a boat.
How you intend to use your marine sound system will affect what you should get.
Where will the sound system be located?
You want to place your speakers in a location where you'll get the most enjoyment out of them. However, their positioning will change what type of sound system you'll need to invest in. For example, if they're within a small cabin, you won't need anything too powerful. On the flip side, if your audio system is going outside, you'll need something that can compete with wind and engine noise.
Figuring out what you'll use your sound system for also impacts what you should get. If you're intending to entertain people on your vessel you want speakers that produce high quality sound, and to potentially invest in an amplifier or subwoofer.
If you're looking to install a sound system on your vessel, make sure you talk to the experts at Hunts Marine. We'll help you choose out the right option for your boat so that it fits perfectly in with your needs.
