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Cars have a long and colorful history when it comes to "do-it-yourself" modifications, and car-audio is no different. Inclined hobbyists have constructed systems of varying complexity, from four car audio component speakers all the way up to entire vans full of them!

Lining up a car stereo car audio system begins with the car stereo. You can find stereos that feature CD changers, fancy displays... or just a radio! Some systems are designed simply to be loud, and feature a high power output rating, but have a limited frequency range. Higher fidelity systems offer a wider frequency range with a smoother response, making it sound clearer and crisper. Essentially, if you like to listen to classical - loudly or not - you probably want a system that focuses on fidelity rather than volume... but classic rock simply needs to be played loud.

Most basic stereos have four car audio component speaker outputs, though more expensive models often offer additional outputs. Every output has specific technical ratings, such as "impedance," which is measured in ohms, and a power rating that is measured in watts; fortunately, while these specifications are quite technical, you don't need an electrical engineering degree to make a savvy choice here. All you need to do is ensure that the impedance on the car audio component speakers selected matches that of the stereo output channel exactly, and that the chosen speaker's wattage is equal or greater. It can damage speakers if the output wattage of the stereo exceeds what the speakers can support.

A large number of consumers are satisfied with driving the speakers from the internal amplifier of the car stereo. However in case you desire a louder, higher-fidelity system, you should purchase a separate amplifier. This amplifier will be connected between your stereo, and amplifies the signal. This signal is then output to your speakers. By following this method, one should use the output specifications of the amplifier, instead of his stereo.

When designing a new car audio system, there are some factors of the car's layout which must be considered. For example, you'll want to make sure that the speakers you order will fit in the area you have designated for them. Also, while amps can be put anywhere in the car you have room for them, you'll want to plan ahead as wires will need to be run from the amp to the stereo and the speakers.

Once you've worked all this out, you're pretty much ready to install your system. This varies greatly between cars, but one point is the same across the board: make sure your car is off, and the battery disconnected, when you work on it! The car and the stereo should both come with manuals outlining how to install them, and beyond that it's up to your determination and sweat. A final piece of advice - don't run amplifier wires inside the car cab. It makes people nervous.

Most basic stereos have four outputs for car audio component speakers. Be sure the impedance on your speakers matches the stereo output channel exactly, and that the speaker's wattage is equal or greater. Car stereo car audio speakers come in various shapes and sizes, and you should order speakers of proper dimensions. Keep in mind that you will have to run wires to all the speakers and the stereo. Before installing your car-audio system, be sure your car is turned off, and the battery disconnected. A final piece of advice - don't run amplifier wires inside the car cab. It makes people nervous.