The sound must be clear, not just loud. Naturally, the higher the sound quality, the higher the price of the radio tape recorder.
The sound of a stereo system closely depends on the brand of your car. If this is a car of a domestic manufacturer, then you will need to try very hard to enjoy clear sound.
The simplest audio system consists of a radio and speakers. Current manufacturers also offer portable amplifiers, a sound processor and a set of speakers. It is impossible to buy a high-quality system for less than $ 500 - $ 600, even a used one. If the car does not have factory audio components, or you want to choose the audio equipment yourself, then first of all you need to choose a radio tape recorder.
Let's decide on the technical characteristics of the radio:
- output power,
- number of channels,
- line inputs and outputs,
- noise suppression,
- equalizers.
Then we pay attention to the usability:
- muting the sound,
- display color settings,
- design.
Theft protection is one of the most important parameters:
- we build in the radio tape recorder tightly,
- there are radio tape recorders that turn over and become invisible, but not for an experienced thief,
- device control using a magnetic card
- removable front panel,
- completely removable radio (you will have to take it with you every time).
Depending on the characteristics, radio tape recorders are divided into four types:
- The simplest car radios - Chinese from the market - of dubious quality
- Entry-level, two-channel radios that have digital tuning, but the tuner quality is comparatively poor. Cost: about $ 50. Better to take domestic;
- Middle class. 4 channels, electronics everywhere, removable panel, easy to operate. Most popular class. Cost: from $ 200. Manufacturers: Sony, Aiwa, Grundig, Pioneer, Panasonic, Kenwood and others;
- Control centers. Output power from 45 W, capable of driving MD and CD changer, flash memory, etc. The sound quality is orders of magnitude higher, due to the built-in sound processor and noise cancellation. Cost: from $ 350 and above.
Of course, we have considered only some of the main types of audio systems, and the market for such products has much more to offer. In any case, choosing a car radio is not difficult. The main thing is basic knowledge in this area and the availability of funds.
