Your Guide to Marine Audio: Choosing and Installing with Certified Radio
Summer is just around the corner, and with warm days and sunny rays on the way, there’s never been a better time to make sure your marine audio is ready to keep you rockin’ on the water all season long. Whether you’re planning a prolonged cabin getaway or looking for every chance you can to escape to the water on weekends, having the right audio system on board is key to making the most of your time on the water.
At Certified Radio, we’re proud to be one of Edmonton’s most trusted sources for car and marine audio solutions and have been helping customers just like you find the perfect fit since opening our doors in 1967. If you’re in the market for a new marine audio set up, below we’ll cover some of the top things to keep in mind. Read on to learn more!
Understanding Marine Audio Components
Before diving into the selection process, it’s important to understand that marine systems have unique characteristics that help them stand up to the extra demands that come with navigating aquatic environments. Constant exposure to moisture, salt (Alberta may not have the ocean, but we have some saline lakes!), and UV rays can take a toll on subpar units. Most marine packages consist of specially designed marine speakers, a marine head unit, amplifiers, and subwoofers to compensate for this.
Waterproof and UV-Resistant Design
It goes without saying that when purchasing a marine audio package, your selected unit must be able to withstand water exposure. Always look for products with a dedicated IPX rating indicating their water resistance level. As mentioned above, UV resistance is also key to avoiding aggressive wear and tear and getting the best ROI on your purchase. Even though higher quality products may cost more upfront, the amount you’ll save in repairs (or outright replacements) makes the expense worthwhile.
Consider the Size of Your Boat
The size of your boat plays a crucial role in determining the power and size of the marine audio components you need. Larger watercraft often require more powerful amplifiers and larger speakers to ensure the sound reaches all areas of the boat, whereas smaller boats may benefit from more compact units that provide high-quality sound without taking up too much room. It’s also important to consider your primary use of the craft (i.e. fishing or idling in comparison to more energetic recreational usage) to determine what set-up works best for you.
Speaker Quality and Placement
Just like you need to consider the size of the space where your speakers are being installed, you’ll also need to consider the size, material and placement of the speakers themselves. Marine speakers come in various sizes and styles, including coaxial and component speakers. Determine the suitable size for your boat to ensure they fit seamlessly into the available spaces and be hyper aware of the quality of the material of the speakers for longevity and optimal sound reproduction.
Power Handling and Wattage
Understanding the power handling capabilities of your marine audio components is vital to finding the right fit. Check the RMS (Root Mean Square) power rating, which indicates the continuous power the components can handle. You’ll also want to evaluate the source unit (the audio unit’s control centre) to determine its features, including Bluetooth connectivity, USB ports, and compatibility with streaming services.
Choosing Professional Installation
It can be tempting to try and save on your overall spend by attempting DIY installation, it’s highly recommended to leave the work to trained professionals. Audio installation involves complex and intricate wiring, and without the proper expertise, you risk incurring water damage, creating a serious electrical hazard or even damaging the hull of the watercraft. Professionals like the team at Certified Radio also know how to place speakers in the best position to ensure the optimal audio experience for everyone onboard.
Marine Speakers and More at Certified Radio
At Certified Radio, we’re here to help you navigate the tricky waters of finding and installing new marine speakers. With decades of experience behind our team, you can count on us to help you find the best fit for your watercraft.
Contact us today to learn more!
