Tips On Choosing A Boating Stereo Systems

By Author: Keith Raven
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By choosing a quality marine stereo system you can have a longer life and better performance from your boating stereo systems in a wet environment. The difference is to buy a stereo system that is coated to withstand moisture, salt, air and UV light. So how can you find the right boating stereo system for your boat? By following the next few tips.

First you need to consider any limitations such as the size and installation dimensions. This is especially important if you are replacing an existing stereo. Most marine stereos have their own DIN or dash installation size. This is typically seven inches wide and two inches high.

However, for some manufacturers these sizes will vary. If you have a stereo that you like which won't fit in your previous compartment then you can consider a gimbal mount. This allows you to mount the stereo under the dash or in any other location you prefer. Just make sure it is either covered or in a protected area to prevent damage due to spray or splash over.

Next you want to consider the power output. For a amplifier there are two different power measurements ...
... to use. The first is peak output, which is the maximum power that the amplifier can give in an instant. A quality system can produce up to forty or fifty peak watts of power per channel.

The second is RMS output. This is the average power than an amplifier can produce over time. A quality unit can produce between fifteen to twenty RMS watts per channel. For medium to small sized boats this is plenty of power to get good sound quality. For larger boats you don't necessarily need more power, but rather may want to add more speakers and amplifiers to cover a larger area.

Finally you want to consider the features offered by the stereo system. When it comes to the price of a stereo system it isn't really the power that make the influence, but rather it is the features. Consider some features you may want that will increase the price of your boating stereo systems.

The biggest difference is between weather resistant and waterproof. All types of marine stereos are weather resistant. A weather resistant system means you won't have corrosion due to a humid environment. Some weather resistant systems can also protect against UV exposure to the sun.

However, weather resistant units aren't the same as waterproof in the sense that water can get into the unit and damage it. If you plan on having your stereo somewhere that it will frequently get wet then you may want to spend the additional money for a waterproof unit.

Another added feature is that of the wireless or wired remote. Just keep in mind that most remotes are line of sight oriented which means a stereo in the cabin may not be controllable by remote when you are on deck. Some wireless remotes can work by pointing at speakers instead of the unit, which would work if you weren't within a line of sight for the unit. You should consider this before purchasing a marine stereo unit.