1. Mount Your Subwoofer

Boat subwoofers can be mounted with a baffle (free air) or in a box. By nature of a boat’s dimensions, you more than likely will end up mounting a subwoofer in a location where a box cannot be used. If you plan to do so, make sure the subwoofer you choose is designed for this purpose. Most marine subwoofers are designed for free air mounting and baffle installations. Even if you plan on using a box, marine subs are the optimal choice for boat installations because they are designed with water and salt resistant materials.

If you do choose to install your boat subwoofers in a box, the front compartment of the boat is a practical place to mount the box. To install your subwoofers into an enclosure, merely connect the leads to the terminals and screw in the subwoofer along the diameter of the enclosure hole. See the wiring configuration section below for more information.

You can also install manufacturer enclosed marine subwoofers. Some of the most popular enclosed marine subs are bass tubes. Bass tubes are water-resistant cylindrical enclosures loaded with subs. They have various sizes, ranging from 8” to as big as 15” loaded bass tube subwoofer enclosures. Bass tubes come preloaded with subs and are either powered (do not require an external amp) or unpowered (require an external marine amplifier).

Enclosed subwoofers are popular for boats because they save space and you do not have to build a custom box. The manufacturer figures out the specific box size required for optimal performance and designs an enclosed sub accordingly. They are usually easier to install. Bass tubes come equipped with mounting straps for easy and secure mounting. After it is mounted, you will need to connect the loaded enclosure to the amplifier using speaker wires.

2. Wire Your Boat Subwoofers

You have two choices when wiring an unpowered component subwoofer to an amplifier. You can wire the subwoofer in series or parallel. To wire in parallel, simply connect the positive leads of both subs to the amp’s positive terminal. Then connect the negative leads to the amp’s negative terminal. Wiring in parallel will lower your impedance, and a lower impedance value will enhance your amp’s power capability. To wire in series, simply connect the positive leads of the subwoofer to the amp’s positive terminal. After that, connect the negative terminal of one subwoofer to the positive terminal of the second sub. Then connect the latter sub’s negative terminal to the amp’s negative terminal. You will need to connect the amp to the boat battery with a power and ground wire.

For powered subs, just purchase an amp kit for power, ground, and lead wires. Then, run the wires to the rest of your system and boat battery.

3. Test the Subwoofer and Clean up the Wiring

Now that the wires are connected, turn on your stereo and test each subwoofer out. Be sure each is powered and working properly. Turn up the bass and volume and listen for any rattling noises or other issues that can be addressed before finishing up. It’s always good to test your installs before putting everything back in place. This is so you can easily correct any mistakes you may have made along the way.

Now that your subwoofer sounds great and is mounted securely, it is time to finish up the installation! Hide and clean up all wiring using zip ties. Now place the wires in locations that are inaccessible to passenger’s feet and any water. 
With the steps above, you can have your subwoofer installed on a boat in no time. Preparing and understanding your boat prior to starting this project is imperative. Every boat is different. This will affect which marine subs will work best for you.

Be sure to visit the rest of the blog for more helpful articles like this one to be able to learn more about everything to do with marine audio.

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Hertz Audio, a leader in high-end mobile audio products, including amplifiers, speakers and subwoofers, began in 1998 and has grown into an award-winning manufacturer that is trusted by audiophiles all over the world. The brand was launched by one of the world’s leading manufacturers of car audio products, Elettromedia, based in Italy. The Elettromedia company has been manufacturing top quality products since 1979. 

When Hertz Audio hit the market in 1998, they came out with a complete line-up of woofers, tweeters, midrange speakers and more with the name Hi-Energy. Products like the HT 19 and HT 25 were developed, along with their Tetolon dome tweeters. Within a year, their HBX subwoofer boxes launched and featured a unique, asymmetrical design. 

Beginning in 2001, Hertz Audio released its Air Mille series and Space woofers, soon after taking home the European Imaging and Sound Association Award (or EISA Award) for the best mobile electronics loudspeaker. Over the next five years, products like the Dieci, the first entry-level low-cost line in the Hertz speaker world, and the new Mille line with V-cone technology were released.

In 2006, the launch of the HP 1KD and the Mille subwoofer received rave reviews. The HP 1KD brought a high power amplifier to the market that won the 2007 Innovations Award at CES in Las Vegas. The ML 3000 sub also won the same award as well as the 2007-2008 EISA Award.

Over the next decade, Hertz Audio pumped up the production and innovation with new speakers, amplifiers, and products. As the brand continued to grow and evolve, new verticals were introduced. In 2016, Hertz Audio launched its Marine and Powersports lines. Products like tower speakers, marine speakers, and marine amplifiers became available to clients across the world.

In the last few years, products and series like DPower, Mille Power and Hertz Cento have provided fans with some high-quality options for their audio systems. As an example, EISA awarded Hertz Audio’s Mille Legend ML 2500.3 the best in-car subwoofer for 2016-2017. For 2017-2018, the H8 DSP won the award for the best in-car integration. They continue to produce some of the best subwoofers, speakers, and amplifiers in the car audio industry.

At Sonic Electronix, our educated staff and in-house experts provide all customers the knowledge needed to make great product choices. We are happy to help you find the gear that will fit your needs and your budget. We’re excited to offer incredible brands like Hertz Audio to our customers!

Ready to check out what Hertz Audio items are now available? To start your search, visit our Hertz Audio Store to see their full line-up of products. 

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DJ Marine Audio DJ1.600 by Memphis Audio

The first marine amplifier on our list is the DJ1.600 Monoblock Class D Marine Amp from DJ Audio by Memphis. This monoblock marine amp is perfect for powering the subwoofer on your boat – at a great price. It’s RMS power at 1 ohm is 600 watts so you’re sure to get a sufficient amount of power for your subwoofer. In addition, this amp features a small chassis for easy installation, as well as protective covers so that the sun and water wont ruin your amplifier.

• Wired Remote Bass Level Control Included
• Variable Bass Boost (0 to +12 dB at 50 Hz)
• Variable Low-Pass Filter (50 Hz, 24 dB/octave)
• Frequency Response: 20-250 Hz

MB Quart NA1-400.2

Next on our top three list is MB Quart’s NA1-400.2 2 Channel Full Range Class D Marine Amplifier. This marine audio amp is not only affordable, but is perfect for any marine application. With an extremely small chassis, this amplifier can be installed in pretty much any location. You can use it to power speakers, subwoofers, and even tower speakers. For it’s small size, this amp gives off a great amount of power at 400 watts RMS.

• Speaker-Level (High-Level) Inputs with Signal Sensing
• Subsonic Filter (24 dB at 15 Hz)
• Frequency Response: 20-20,000 Hz
• Signal to Noise Ratio: 90dB
• Total Power Output: 400 Watts
• 8 Gauge Power and Ground Wiring

Kicker KXM800.5

Last, but not least, on our list is Kicker’s KXM Series 5-Channel Class D-IC Marine Amplifier. This amplifier is more than enough to power your boat’s sound system with it’s RMS power rating of 100 watts per four channels and 400 watts for the subchannel, at 2 ohms. In addition, it features a small chassis for ease of installation and was made with high-grade components that are even UV-protected. This amp was built to stand up to the harsh marine environment and features a sleek tuning magnetic door which protects the interior of the amplifier.

• Remote Bass Level Control Included
• Variable Bass Boost (0-18 dB @ 40 Hz)
• Soft Start Turn-On
• Preamp RCA Outputs
• Double-Sided Fiberglass Circuit Board
• CEA-2006 Compliant Amplifier

Shop Now!

The post The Top 3 Marine Amplifiers for Your Money appeared first on Sonic Electronix Learning Center and Blog.

JBL PRV175

The JBL PRV175 in-dash digital media round receiver with Bluetooth is the perfect marine audio receiver for any boat. Not only does it feature Bluetooth technology, but you can also play music off of it through USB or an SD card. It features a fully water resistant design and a very simple interface with easy to use controls and a one-line LCD display.

• 2-Way iPod Control Allows Control from iPod or Stereo
• White Illuminated Button Lighting
• Compatible with Apple iPhone 5 and iOS 6 Software
• Rear Aux Input
• AM/FM Radio

Read the Full Description

Infinity PRV250

Next up is Infinity’s PRV250 in-dash marine digital receiver with Bluetooth. This receiver is a lot like the PRV175, however it is a bit bigger and features a square design instead of round. The PRV250 features a USB rear input, AM/FM radio, a marine-rated watertight faceplate and controls that are sure to stand up to sun, salt and moisture, and much more.

• Single-Line LCD Display
• White Illuminated Button Lighting
• 2-Band Parametric Equalizer
• 3.5mm Rear Auxiliary Input
• 2 Sets of 2V Preamp Outputs

Read the Full Description

Sony MEX-M70BT

Last, but certainly not least, is the Sony MEX-M70BT single DIN in-dash marine stereo receiver with built-in Bluetooth technology. This stereo is a bit different than the others, as it features a classic single-DIN car stereo look- but this also means that unlike the other receivers, you can play CD’s on your boat. This marine receiver is a high tech, quality stereo and is perfect for any type of boat. The MEX-M70BT features one-touch Bluetooth device pairing using NFC technology, conformal circuit board coating to protect the unit from the harsh marine environment, UV resistant coating, and an included remote control. What’s special about this stereo is that, unlike the others, you can play CD’s on it!

• CEA-2006 Compliant Amplifier
• Theft-Deterrent, Detachable Face Plate
• 10-Band Equalizer
• Front USB and 3.5mm Auxiliary Inputs
• Pandora Internet Radio Control through iPhone and Android Smartphones

Read the Full Description

Shop Now

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Kicker Marine Audio

Kicker’s new and updated marine products are a great way to bring great sound out on the water- in style! Whether you’re looking for marine amps, subwoofers, speakers, or tower speakers, Kicker’s marine line truly has it all. All of Kicker’s marine products were carefully designed with the outdoor environment in mind and are built to stand up against damaging sun rays, moisture, and water. Our favorite products from them are their KM Series subwoofers and speakers will brighten any boating experience with their cones which feature multi-color LED lights with twenty color options!

Marine Audio from Wet Sounds

This year’s new marine audio products from Wet Sounds definitely impressed us at the Miami Boat Show. Their new Icon 8 Series wakeboard tower speakers are one of our favorite products from them and are high quality and feature supreme functionality with multiple mounting options, so you can be sure these will fit your boat! Wet Sounds, which Sonic Electronix is now an Authorized Dealer of, also featured a wide variety of other marine products such as marine amps, subwoofers, coaxial speakers, and their marine Bluetooth Volume Control knob. For high performance, premium marine audio that is sure to liven up your boat, Wet Sounds‘ new products are always a great option!

Audiopipe Marine Products

Last but not least, we were also impressed with Audiopipe’s upgraded full line of marine audio products. Audiopipe showed their full line of marine amps, speakers, tower speakers, subwoofers, and marine audio accessories. All of Audiopipe’s marine products are either weather proof or water repellent, to stand up to the harsh marine environment. We were especially impressed with their upgraded APAW Series marine loudspeakers. These speakers are available in 6.5″ or 8″ models and in a range of RMS wattages from 125 – 250 watts. In addition, they feature a water repellent design, a durable carbon fire cone, and come with black and white grills, so they are sure to match any boat!

Shop Marine Audio

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When it comes to getting great sound out on the lake, the Icon Series features a full passive crossover network that allows these speakers to deliver perfectly tuned frequencies to the powerful 8″ woofer for full, rich sound. Capable of tremendous volume and mid bass without distortion, you’ll be heard from across the lake!

Wet Sounds Icon Tower Speakers:

• 8″ Icon Series Marine Tower Speakers
• Peak Power: 300W
• RMS Power: 150W
• Protective neoprene storage case available and sold separately
• Frequency Response: 20-20,000 Hz
• Sensitivity: 92 dB
• 4 ohms impedance
• Coaxially mounted 1″ HLT titanium tweeter
• Marine rated polyurethane surround
• Water resistant composite cone
• Dimensions: 11-1/2″L x 9-9/16″H x 8-3/4″W
• Available in Black or White

Wet Sounds has definitely taken tower speakers to the next level with their Icon Series! These high quality marine tower speakers are specially designed to thrive in any marine environment. They feature a reinforced composite enclosure to protect the internal components from the harsh marine environment. In addition, they include swivel and fixed clamp stainless steel mounting systems to provide a variety of mounting options.

Shop Now!

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What to Look For

A marine head unit takes the same features of the head unit in your car and moves it to your boat. You’ll be able to add anything from AM/FM radio and CD player (although CDs will often times have skipping problems in rough water) to an MP3/USB digital media player with satellite radio.

Most marine head units come in single DIN designs, however there are receivers that are custom DIN designs. Custom DIN head units come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Many newer boats will come with stock stereos which makes upgrading to an aftermarket receiver a simple task. However, if you want to add a head unit to an older boat that doesn’t have any sound system in it, you are probably going to need to cut open some paneling and run wiring for the components. There isn’t really one perfect spot to install a head unit in your boat because of the different boat designs and sizes, but as a general rule try to keep your head unit in an out of the way location where it will get some protection from sunlight and water.

There are many features and specifications you will want to look for when purchasing a head unit for your boat, but there are 3 that you really need to pay attention to: water resistance, UV resistance and anti-corrosion protection.

Marine grade audio equipment should absolutely be designed to withstand water. When you see a product labeled as ‘Water Resistant’, it will stand up to splashes and light rain, but won’t be able to survive submersion. A ‘Water Proof’ product is built to survive complete submersion. Even if you plan on installing your marine head unit in an area of your boat unlikely to ever see water a water proof designed unit will last longer. No matter where you install your unit the dampness of any marine environment will take its toll. When looking for water resistance ratings be sure to look for IPX ratings. IPX ratings range from IPX-0, which offers no protection whatsoever against water, to IPX-7, which provides protection from complete submersion up to 1 meter for at least 30 minutes. An IPX-8 rating also exists which provides protection from complete submersion better than IPX-7 in any way the manufacturer states.

Chances are your head unit is going to be installed in an area where it will be exposed to UV rays from the sun. This can be potentially problematic because extended exposure to the sun can lead to bleached out, cracked or overheated equipment. High quality marine audio equipment is designed to withstand damaging UV. However, there is no such thing as ‘UV-Proof’, so try and install your head unit in an area where it won’t see much direct sun light.

The third primary enemy which faces marine audio equipment is corrosion. Marine environments are not friendly places for electronics. Rust and corrosion are common in marine environments, especially if your boat is out on the ocean. Marine grade gear is designed to resist rust and corrosion with conformal coated circuit boards, plated connections and rust resistant chassis components. However, as with harmful UV rays, your head unit should be placed in an area with as little exposure as possible.

Bluetooth

Bluetooth enabled head units are compatible with most Bluetooth devices and allow for wireless streaming and hands free talk. Most Bluetooth units include either an external wired or built-in microphone for distortion free phone calls. In many states it is illegal to talk on your phone without a Bluetooth device. They also come with a text to speech feature so that you can receive and respond to your texts without pulling over.

MP3 Player/Smartphone Integration

Marine receivers also come with integrated USB ports. These can be used for iPod integration and playing music from other audio sources such as thumb drives, MP3 players and other smartphones. Select marine head units open up to accept and store your MP3 player or smartphone. These receivers are best because they protect your device from the harmful marine elements. This also eliminates the need for having any type of input jack on the outside of the receiver which can be susceptible to rust and corrosion. Receivers with Pandora compatibility are able to stream music from your Pandora account.

AM/FM Radio

Other receivers have integrated supertuners for boosted AM/FM reception. Supertuners combine the best of digital and analog tuner technology to greatly reduce distortion and improve stereo separation and sensitivity. Supertuners are ideal for low reception areas and also improve reception in downtown areas where tall buildings can add interference.

Satellite Radio

Select in-dash receivers come HD and Satellite radio-ready or with the HD/Satellite radio tuner built-in. Satellite radio receivers require a Sirius/XM subscription (and it will work up to 200 miles off shore depending on your location). Some of the advantages of HD and satellite radio are dramatically improved signal quality and that they each come with stations that aren’t found on AM/FM radio. HD radio provides a CD level sound quality to FM stations and makes AM stations FM quality.

EQ

Graphic and parametric Equalizer bands, or EQ bands, allow you to tweak your music settings. The more EQ bands your receiver has, the more you’ll be able to fine-tune the sound. Graphic EQ bands are the simplest type and consist of multiple sliders or controls for adjusting bands or sound frequencies. Parametric equalizers offer a greater degree of control over your sound. Parametric EQ can control three aspects of each frequency: the level, the center frequency and the range of each frequency.

To further clean up sound, head units can come with Digital Time Alignment, or DTA. This synchronizes the timing of sounds coming from each of your speakers to optimize the sound stage and provide the ultimate listening experience.

Higher end head units come with built-in sound processors to provide even better sound quality. Sound processors better filter audio signals to your speakers for the cleanest sound possible. The top of the line head units will come with Digital 5.1 Surround Sound capabilities to transform your boat into a truly immersive sound stage.

Preamp RCA Outputs

These outputs are necessary to connect external amplifiers for your speakers and subwoofers to your marine receiver. A receiver typically comes with one, two or three sets of RCA outputs. One pair of outputs will generally provide a full range signal which can be used with most subwoofers and amplifiers. Two RCA outputs can be configured for connecting a 2-channel amp or one pair of stereo speakers. Three sets of RCA outputs are typically used for two sets ofstereo speakers and a subwoofer amp.

It is important to know what the preamp voltage of your head unit is. Higher voltages result in stronger signals which clean up distortion and unwanted sound.

Compatibility

For boats with steering wheel mounted controls there are receivers with steering wheel integration to give you total control of your stereo without ever having to take your hands off the wheel. Most receivers do not come with steering wheel integration built-in and require an additional adapter.

The post Marine Stereo Buying Guide appeared first on Sonic Electronix Learning Center and Blog.

Marine Stereos:

Most often marine stereos or headunits are watertight, have coated circuit boards and UV-resistant paint, so it’ll stand up to the sun, salt, and spray. Many are compatible with, satellite radio, MP3 devices and remotes that can be placed around the boat to control your music anywhere.

Marine Speakers:

Marine Speakers are also designed specifically for the wear and tear for the aquatic environment. They are available in a wide range of sizes from marine specific sizes for factory replacements to standard 6 ½” components and coaxials. Another great option for people that are water sports enthusiast are wakeboard tower speakers that can be heard by the person wake boarding and everyone around you.

Marine Subwoofers:

If bass is your thing then a marine certified subwoofer will round out your system nicely. There amplified, non-amplified, free-air, and enclosed models to suit everyone’s needs. Marine subwoofers are fashioned with waterproof rubber mounting gaskets, and the bass tubes are water resistant enclosures that use weather resistant mounting straps to help sustain your bass despite stormy conditions.

Marine Amplifiers:

For people that want more power and clarity, you need amplifier to give your speakers the power they deserve. Marine amplifiers are designed specifically for the harsh environment that electronics are exposed to. They feature rubber caps to cover the RCA inputs, silicone boots to shield the fuses, and their circuit boards have corrosion-deterring coating. They are available in 6, 5, 4, 2 -channel, and mono-block configurations.

Marine Certified Amplifier Installation Kits:

This is a part of your audio system that you don’t want to skimp out on. You always want a BC-5W2 marine compliant certified amplifier installation kit. This is very important as they will be subjected to corrosive conditions at all times and marine electrical system are usually 14.4 volts. You want a power and ground wire, such as Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC), that can transfer as much power as possible as they usually have a long run from the power source to the amp. This helps prevent voltage drop to your amplifiers.

Something to Know:
While most marine products are not completely waterproof, they do an excellent job standing up to the water splashes and bumps that come with the harsh marine environment. In fact, Marine equipment does this so well that it is also used in golf carts, ATVs, and other off-roading vehicles.

So remember. When you’re looking to upgrade your watercraft’s audio system, make sure it’s marine certified. We have a huge selection for you to choose from, so head over to SonicElectronix.com and gets your system today!

The post Summertime or Anytime: Introduction to Marine Audio appeared first on Sonic Electronix Learning Center and Blog.

Join installers Allyn R. & Anthony B. as they walk you through the 2007 Dodge Charger SRT 8 install, complete with Clarion NX602 GPS Navigation Receiver, Kicker ZX Amps, Alpine Type-R Speakers, Kicker CVR Subs, Viper 5904 Car Alarm, and a Blendmount with Escort radar detector.

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2012 offers an abundance of new audio equipment for your aquatic satisfaction.  It’s not quite summer, but now is the perfect time to start thinking of upgrading your watercraft’s audio components!  Marine audio can be installed on the likes of boats, sea-doos, jet skis, motorcycles, ATV’s, ect.  As opposed to car audio, marine audio is usually more durable and weather proof to allow for excessive wear and tear.  Getting the gear you need now will ensure an audio-inducing summer.

                                              The Difference

Marine audio differentiates from car audio in a few major ways. Marine amplifiers and subwoofers are water resistant due to their increased exposure to salt or fresh water. They have special manufacturing designs such as watertight seals, coated circuit boards, and waterproof wired remote controllers. Another thing to take into consideration is sunlight exposure.  Usually, audio components are going to be exposed to long hours in the summer sun.  To compensate for this, manufacturers will coat parts with ultraviolet resistant materials.

When your audio components are wet or dampened, they are susceptible to corrosion.  Marine speaker wire is designed to reduce the risk of corrosion with stranded copper wire.  This wire also makes it flexible which is great for absorbing shock damage caused by the movement of the harsh marine environment. Due to the openness of a marine environment, marine speakers will always have hard dome tweeters to create the loudest sound projection obtainable. Marine head units will have rubberized buttons and splash guards to protect the internal parts from being wet. Today, there are an abundance of manufacturers who offer multiple lines of marine audio products to fit your specific needs.

We have a huge selection,  check it out!:

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