Sound System

Modern car manufacturers almost always include some form of sound system on their factory model. This is typically referred to as the stock system. These stock systems are supplied by a company that specializes in sound system production or by an exclusive vendor to the manufacturer. Many drivers, however, choose to upgrade their sound system and speakers, and as such there is a large market of products available for consumers who wish to expand, upgrade, or replace their cars’ stock sound systems.

Brands

Around since 1980, Kicker is considered one of the best manufacturers of sound systems in the world. The company creates high quality amplifiers and subwoofers, which many reviewers consider to be the best on the market. Another popular brand is Sundown Audio, which has made huge waves on the market in recent years. Their line of amplifiers and subwoofers offer excellent performance in even the most demanding conditions. Other popular brands include Alpine, JL Audio, and Digital Designs.

Safety

While upgrading your sound system is relatively harmless, it certainly does encourage listening to music loudly, which can be a safety risk. Loud music decreases a driver’s ability to make decisions and react to sudden movements or obstacles. One study showed that a person’s reaction time decreased by 20% when subjected to loud volume, which could potentially be fatal at even moderate speeds. The typical stock sound system has a maximum volume of 110 decibels, but this can be increased significantly with an upgraded system, which poses a serious safety risk.

Benefits

There are many benefits to upgrading your current sound system. While many stock systems are certainly adequate, an upgraded sound system is ideal for people who wish to have the best audio quality. Your music will sound crisp and clear, which, for some people, is the most important thing. There are also hundreds of different brands and models of sound systems and speakers available, which ensures you will be able to find the perfect fit for your car and personality.

Drawbacks

The biggest drawback to a new sound system is the cost. It is rather expensive to install speakers and a subwoofer, although it is possible to find deals online or at certain retailers. Speakers also take up a large amount of room, which can make your car heavier while also limiting storage space. It also requires more energy from the vehicle, which lowers your gas mileage. Lastly, there are safety concerns. Listening to music too loudly can cause a driver to become distracted, and reduces his reaction time on the road, which could lead to an accident and serious injury.

Cost

The cost of a sound system varies greatly, depending on the brand, size, and number of speakers you wish to install. For two amps, four speakers, and two subwoofers, you can be expected to pay around $1,000. The receiver, which is arguably the most important part of your sound system, will typically cost around $200 (although the top brands can run up to $1,000). While it is possible to purchase a high-quality audio system for around $500, those who want the best of the best can be expected to pay a high premium.