Entertainment

Unlike car audio components, marine equipment needs to withstand the outdoor elements. A regular car system wouldn't last a season under the conditions a boater is subject to on the water. Survival is key, so make sure that all of your electronics on your boat can stand up to salt, sun, and water. It is always a good idea when selecting a nonwatertight receiver to get a universal cover for protection against splash and spray. It will flip down to shield your receiver from the outside, and then flip up so you can access the controls. Another option would be to purchase a waterproof, wired remote. This way you can mount the radio inside a watertight compartment and not worry about exposing your receiver to the elements.

The days of the basic, one-trick CD player are long gone. From satellite radio controls to connections for your iPod, make sure when selecting a system for your boat that its features encompass all that you want to control. If you have a larger system in mind, get a receiver with an auxiliary input, allowing you to add another audio source later. Multiple sets of preamp outputs make it easier to connect and control external amplifiers and subwoofers. And if your cruising will take you out into the deep blue, consider the entertainment value of satellite radio. Unlike traditional radio airwaves, satellite radio signals can reach up to 200 miles off shore. No matter how you personalize it, your equipment system will definitely improve the quality time you're out on the water.

Stereo Installation

Give your stereo some air. Properly installed, your stereo should be well ventilated so the heat sink can dissipate into the surrounding air. If you install the stereo on an outside bulkhead, make sure the unit is properly sealed to the dash so water cannot leak into the chassis or connectors behind the dash. Pay particular attention if your unit is mounted below instrument gauges, as they are a common source of leaks. And remember to use only UL-approved power connections and fuses with the proper ratings.

Speaker Installation

This component, more than any other, is the most exposed to the elements. Because of this, most people naturally want to install them where they will be the most protected. This oftentimes results in a compromise of their sound. However, almost all of the speakers in our catalog this year are designed to withstand and perform in the marine environment. So, when installing them, keep some of these principles in mind. Speakers are directional, so point them at ear level in a place where you will listen to them most often. Try not to "choke" the sound. Flush mounted speakers need air behind them. More air is better. Ideally, at least one cubic foot of air behind your speakers is recommended so as not to compromise the bass response. Separate the air in front of the speaker from the air behind it. If there is no baffle (wall or bulkhead) separating the front from the back, the positive air pressure at the front of the cone will rush around to fill in the vacuum behind the cone. This reduces bass response and is why unmounted speakers sound "tinny."