HEAD
UNITS
The head unit links and controls every system component used. It pays to buy
a head unit capable of more than you initially require, this will eliminate the
need to upgrade later on.
If
your budget is tight, a basic head unit that receives radio and
plays tapes is the route to take. But ensure it can be linked to
a CD multi-changer. A midrange unit packing RDS radio, single CD
and remote control is a better option. Saving up for a cutting
edge unit would be the ultimate. These have features such as Mini-Disc
drives, TV screens and multi-CD drives. Buying a head unit with
built-in flip-out screen will save hassle when you fit a video
or games console. Top features, on any unit, include removable
faceplates, RDS (which re-tunes to the strongest signal and traffic
information) and in-built equalisers for instant sound adjustment.
Kenwood Head Unit
NAVIGATION
Navigation systems utilise global positioning satellite (GPS) technology to pinpoint
where you are, down to street level. Their updateable digital maps can direct
you wherever you need to go.
Some
systems integrate a traffic messaging service (TMC) recommending
alternate routes whenever the unit receives a traffic alert. 
VDO Dayton DVD Navigation System
SCREENS
These flat, liquid crystal screens enable you and your occupants to watch TV
and play computer games. When the car isn't moving, of course.
Aim for a head unit screen or a flush-mount screen. Head unit-screens are top
bits of kit - with automated screen eject and retract and touch screen controls.
Some even feature a widescreen option for DVD films.
CD
CHANGER
A CD changer (or multi-changer) stores a number of CD's in a magazine which
are accessed by you head unit.
Ensure
the changer you by will work alongside your present head unit
- as many companies use dedicated connectors.
Ensure
the changer is mounted as specified in the instructions or
tracks will skip, or stop altogether, when you hit a bump or
the road surface deteriorates.
DVD
DVD is the latest in video technology - a CD capable of recording and playing
masses of digital information, be it music or films.
The
only downside is that with any cutting edge technology, DVD
is expensive - especially those designed for in-car use.
Few
are available right now, limiting choice. Take advise from
your dealer, as they will have the information on the latest
systems available.
GAMES
CONSOLES
The games console you use at home, whether Dreamcast or Playstation, can be converted
to work alongside your car's ICE install.
You
can use your home system, linked to a power converter plugged
into your car's cigarette lighter socket. But if you can afford
a new console, a 12V-conversion board can replace the power board.
This will enable a skilled installer to permanently link the
console to your ICE system-flush mounting the unit in a custom
parcel shelf.
CABLES
Cables connect all the components in an ICE install transferring either power
or signals.
RCA
leads can make a big difference to the sound your system puts
out. Their resistance, capacitance and inductance affect response
and quality of signal.
Speaker
leads and power cables come in a wide variety of types and colours,
and vary massively in price.
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TWEETERS
Like any other speakers, tweeters produce sound by vibrating at various frequencies.
However, they have tiny cones that handle the high frequency notes normal
speakers struggle to produce.
High
frequency notes don't travel well, so tweeters are designed for
installation in line with the listener's ears. To help you achieve
this some come with ball-and-socket mounting for easy set-up.
MIDRANGE
SPEAKERS
Midrange speakers produce all sound that is not pure treble or bass. They can
make or break a system, so avoid fitting cheap midrange speakers to a quality
head unit.
Cheap
midrange speakers are prone to blowing when driven at high
volumes for long periods. If you run your system hard, you
must fit good quality midrange speakers. Top quality midrange
speakers use cast-alloy baskets, composite cones, twin voice
coils and gold connector terminals - all of which improve sound
quality and performance.
6x9'S
6x9's use a six-inch by nine-inch midrange cone, with a centralised tweeter
on top.
They
are designed to ensure that back seat passengers get the full,
rounded sound - not just heavy bass. They can be installed
up front and give a good sound. However, a large door-build
would be required and a combination of midrange and tweeters
would be far more flexible.
SUBWOOFERS
Subs utilise massive magnets, huge cones and sizeable voice-coils to move the
cone by the amount required to produce shaking bass tones.
The two styles of subs available are free-air and enclosed. Free-air subs use
your car's boot as its pressure box. Enclosed subs require a sealed and ported
box of set dimensions - these are more flexible and set friendly.
Sizes range from small eight-inch cone units (ideal for rapid punchy bass),
to a massive fifteen-inch cones for deep, long bass tones.
AMPLIFIERS
As their name suggests, these amplify the signals sent from your head unit
to the speakers.
Amps
are packed with components that boost sound output. Transformers
distribute and regulate power flow. Power storage capacitors
ensure the amps power level is not sucked dry by heavy bass
lines. Passive crossovers break down the output signal into
bass, midrange and treble.
As
a rule of thumb, the bigger the amp, the more powerful it is.
The size of the amp required depends on your system, and what
you expect from it. If you're content with a basic system,
a two-channel amp will work fine. But if you continually upgrade,
you'll need the extra power and flexibility of a four, six
or eight channel amp.
Amplifier
SOUND
DEADENING
Sound deadening does as its name suggests - reduces noise. In terms of use within
an ICE install, sound deadening reduces road noise intrusion, and panel vibration
in cars with high output systems.
It
is cheap, easy to fit and gives fantastic results.
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