Top 5 Boat Audio Upgrades to Enjoy Summer on the Water in Chicago
With summer in full swing, it’s time to break out of the marina and relax in the cooling waters that the season has to offer. When preparing to take on the waves, reliable, crisp boat audio creates an atmosphere that everyone will enjoy. While standard, portable speakers can be useful, their sound is no match for the wind whipping by as you cruise above the water. From new radios to marine subwoofers, keeping up-to-date on the latest technology can help ensure that everyone has an amazing experience while sailing under the sun.
Understanding the Parameters
Before you start browsing, let’s take a look at your dashboard. This is typically where the device or system is installed. Depending on the product, it could even be permanently installed in this location, which is an important factor to consider prior to purchase. If the space is larger, a receiver with a variety of features could be a great option. A broader space can also mean room for a collection of speakers or amplifiers. However, if you’re steering a smaller watercraft, it might be wiser to go with smaller boat audio options. Even without huge speakers, smaller products can still produce an impressive sound that carries over the waves.
From here, you’ll need to decide on the style of connection that you need. Depending on your preferred method of connection, different boat audio options might be more convenient. One of the more common options is Bluetooth connectivity. Bluetooth offers a unique opportunity to connect to a mobile device wirelessly. Another perk is the ability to pair multiple devices simultaneously, such as a smartphone and a subwoofer. This provides deeper sounds while offering more flexibility while listening. However, a wired connection can be more reliable. When physically connected, there is a clear path from one device to the other, which means fewer things can go wrong. Furthermore, the latency is lower, so everyone can enjoy live-streamed music while out on the water.
Selecting a Marine Radio
One way to amp up boat audio is with a radio. These products combine functionality with low maintenance requirements to provide high-quality audio that everyone can enjoy. One of the main perks of marine radios is primary access to local stations. However, if you or your guests would prefer to bounce between a local radio session and hearing personalized playlists, many modern models also offer Bluetooth flexibility. Storms or choppy waters are bound to happen while out and about, and marine radios are designed with this in mind. These products are built to survive the elements so you can enjoy rich, clear boat audio for years to come. Depending on the typical weather for the area, some come with unique features like UV resistance to increase durability.
The Kenwood Marine/Motorsports CD-Receiver is perfect for those looking to either add or enhance their current boat audio with a radio. This device can not only connect to local stations but can be paired wirelessly to your mobile device. In fact, five Bluetooth devices can be connected at once, so everyone can take turns selecting the tunes. You even have the option to add additional external remotes for increased control. If you prefer a wired connection, this receiver is compatible with AUX and USB outlets. Furthermore, this device has a conformal coating to fight against corrosion for long-lasting durability.
Kenwood Marine/Motorsports CD-Receiver with Bluetooth & Conformal Coating (OPEN BOX) - KMR-D382BTOB
Want to Add an Amplifier?
Regardless of which device you’ve chosen to enjoy your selected music, sometimes the depth or range of sound just isn’t enough. This is where amplifiers become useful. These products help drown out loud noises so you and your guests can enjoy the music, not sounds from other watercraft or wind. Choose the right amplifier and you'll enhance your boat audio to perfectly fit your watercraft.
The JL Audio 8-Channel Car/Marine Amplifier allows for up to eight speakers to work together. This not only provides more depth and range to your boat audio system, but it also reduces distortion for cleaner playback. The NexD™ Switching Technology maximizes efficiency and power, surpassing other compact designs. Furthermore, the Advanced Rollback Protection circuit constantly measures the thermal condition and will adjust automatically to avoid any shutdown occurrences. Like a true balanced connection without interference from external sources? The Differential-Balanced Inputs ensure that induced cable noise won't be a problem for a truly amplified experience.
Deciding on a Marine Speaker
Upgraded speakers tend to be some of the most common audio devices in general, and they can be an excellent addition to your boat audio system. Some speakers offer more flexibility with placement and can be placed in hidden locations so as to not interfere with the aesthetic of your craft. Enclosed models tend to run slightly larger but work to transform your deck into the ideal party platform. Whether it’s time for the annual water ski competition or simply a relaxing day on the water, upgraded speakers truly create the ideal ambiance. Hoping for a nighttime excursion? Some products come with color-changing options to fully bring the party out on the water.
The JL Audio Enclosed Tower Coaxial System adds more sound and power to your watercraft. Want to ensure that your entire crew can enjoy the tunes? This system does a great job projecting sound to all ends of the craft so swimmers, skiers or tubers can enjoy the vibe too. The decorative logo cap can be adjusted to match any mourning application. Worried about the cables getting wet? To ensure any important wires remain safe, wires exit through the center to keep them dry, high and near-invisible. This system was specifically designed to withstand a true saltwater environment so everyone can enjoy years of high-quality boat audio.
How Much Bass Does a Subwoofer Really Add?
Like with a dry sound setup, your boat audio system wouldn’t be complete without a subwoofer. These products help bring the bass to life and immerse listeners in the music. Marine subwoofers are installed directly into the frame—either within the walls or under the seats. This placement ensures a more immersive experience rather than installing them up high or even on the deck.
The JL Audio M6 Series Marine Subwoofer Driver excels at providing an enhanced boat audio experience. Perhaps the largest perk of this product is that it’s an infinite baffle subwoofer. This means that it doesn't require an enclosure to work, making it a quick and efficient solution for most watercraft. The suspension system ensures that rich, deep bass can be heard across your deck. y adding this subwoofer to your current setup, smaller speakers won’t have to work as hard to play lower frequencies, so that everyone can enjoy cleaner, louder music.
Deciding on Additional Accessories
Once you've chosen your system, you might want to add some additional accessories to truly complete your boat audio system. From having additional cables to bringing microphones on board, there is a plethora of options to choose from. While these items might not be required, they certainly help top off the experience. Additionally, radio or speaker covers are a great way to ensure that your new products remain in good shape while not in use. No matter where you decide to sail, protecting your boat audio ensures long-lasting performance for years to come.
Get Ready to Upgrade Your Boat Audio Today
No matter what set-up or addition you decide to go with, our Mobile Installation team will be sure to get the job done. If you aren’t confident which product is right for you or your pontoon, feel free to either bring your watercraft in or reach out to our team of experts at 800-860-3577 for more information. Here at Abt, we want to help make your boating experience a great one. If you would like more information, explore our Learn center to learn more about upgrading your boat audio today.
Boat Audio Upgrades FAQs
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Depending on the system you choose, the number of batteries needed can vary. If you aren't sure, reach out to Abt's experts to learn how many you'll need.
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Depending on the system you have, you might need to purchase an additional recording device unless one is already included. Before recording, make sure to consider outside factors such as wind and engine noise to ensure you get the recording you want.
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The wiring of your boat audio system depends on how many different parts you have. If you aren't confident in wiring the system yourself, Abt's service team can install your sound system for you.
