WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A MARINE SOUND SYSTEM
If you like to listen to your favorite tunes, follow a ballgame, or catch up on the news while you're out on the water, your ship has come in. You now have the option of choosing from an amazing array of state-of-the-art sound systems designed specifically for on-board use. Thanks to rapid technological innovation, a whole new world of mobile audio has opened up for boaters. Not only have these sound systems become more advanced, they're also capable of taking just about anything the harsh marine environment can dish out.
While these sound systems are not 100 percent waterproof, most feature special construction or splash-proof covers that protect vulnerable system components from water and the elements. All in all, marine stereos, CD units and cassette players are better equipped than ever before to provide boaters with quality sound over the long haul. Here are some tips on what look for when selecting a sound system for your boat, plus a peek at a few of the latest and greatest products available.
Playing Power
While some portable
sound systems, such as CD and MP3 players, may have their own limited
re-chargeable power sources, fixed mount on-board sound systems are typically
12-volt devices that require "juice" from your boat's battery to run.
For this reason you'll want to have a deep-cycle 12V cell for these systems
to draw from that is separate from your boat's "cranking" battery. Otherwise,
while you may be thoroughly entertained out on the water, you may not
have enough power left to start up your boat at the end of the day. There's
certainly nothing entertaining about that! While "permanent" marine sound
systems are usually wired directly to a boat's 12V deep-cycle battery,
such devices can also be plugged into 12V socket hookups (such as those
made by Marinco) installed on your boat.
Although one or two deep cycle batteries may provide sufficient power for your marine electronic entertainment needs, if you'll be running multiple units for an extended period, you may want to look into equipping your boat with a larger alternator for faster re-charging. To run electronic entertainment equipment requiring 120 volts AC, you'll need an inverter to convert 12V power from your boat's battery into 120-volt AC power.
A Sound Investment Most marine sound systems are not 100 percent watertight,
nor is this absolutely necessary if you'll be using these devices in a
fully enclosed, protected area. On small- to medium-sized boats, however,
there aren't many places where you can totally escape the elements. With
this in mind, when it comes to entertainment electronics for onboard use,
it's best to invest in those that offer protection against water and UV
rays. Some flush-mounted sound systems, for instance, feature sealed or
gasketed face panels that can take spray or even a direct hit from a swell,
without any problems. Systems designed for marine use also typically feature
circuit boards shielded against water and humidity by a coating of silicone
or plastic. If you will be gimbal-mounting a marine stereo receiver at
an open helm or in another exposed area, plan on purchasing a waterproof
casing, such as those made by Poly-Planar, to fully protect the head unit
from wetness and corrosion. Also make sure the head unit incorporates
some kind of shock-absorbing system to prevent "skipping" while you're
underway. Most, but not all, of the newer marine models feature chassis
designs that allow for uninterrupted CD or MP3 play, even in rougher conditions.
Unlike head units, many marine
speakers are completely waterproof. This is a good thing, since the speakers
must often be mounted in on-board locations exposed to the elements. Look
for models capable of standing up to both water and UV rays. Make sure
the housings are waterproof, and that your speaker cones are made of polypropylene
or a similar water-resistant composite. The grilles should also be constructed
from a durable, waterproof plastic material or stainless steel. Also ensure
that any exposed lead wires and connections are specially treated for
corrosion resistance.
The power handling of your
marine sound system itself will depend upon the specific situation, as
well as your individual preferences and needs. You may require additional
wattage if you plan on listening to music while underway, especially in
an open cockpit area or fly-bridge. In some cases, it may be necessary
to bring a marine-grade amplifier into the mix for optimum sound. Keep
in mind that the sound quality of your system will depend on a number
of variables, including the quality of your receiver, speakers and antenna.
You can also invest in a Satellite radio system and subscription, such
as Sirius or XM, to significantly enhance your radio reception and channel
selection.
 Poly-Planar
MRD 60 Waterproof AM/FM Stereo w/ CD Player
The Poly-Planar MRD 60
AM/FM Stereo with CD Player is designed specifically for marine applications,
with its completely waterproof faceplate and patented waterproof volume
knob control. The internal circuitry is also fully coated for protection
against corrosion. Custom EQ optimizes sound for boat acoustics. A built-in
mechanism for shock resistance ensures uninterrupted play, even in rough
water. Poly-Planar's MRD 60 packs 180 Watts of total power (4 x 45 Watts)
for your listening pleasure, plus a proprietary automatic dynamic loudness
control that automatically adjusts the base level. Additional features include:
18 FM and 12 AM presets; built-in disc-changer controls; and an expansion
connector that allows for system customizing and enhancements. Optional
hard-wired/wireless remotes are also available. The MRD 60 head unit fits
standard DIN cutouts.
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