Its probably safe to say that most new car sound systems are capable of playing CD’s and some even include the provision to play your iPod through the vehicle’s sound system. While today’s automobiles usually come with a decent car radio, it always amazes me the difference an upgrade to new aftermarket car audio equipment makes. For music lovers, many new car buyers view the vehicle’s factory sound system as something to be replaced as soon as possible.
One of the most popular upgrades remains switching out the stock receiver for an Alpine CD player. The new Alpine head units have come a long way from the days of push button station changers and AM radio. The new car receivers are more appropriately called source units since they are capable of playing your favorite tunes from any of several sources from CD’s to iPods or various media storage devices.
While the receiver might be the source of music from any modern car sound system, the amplifier is the power behind the scenes. With a good MTX amp you should be able to power anything from a simple pair of coaxial speakers to high end component systems including a separate subwoofer. It all depends upon your budget and music tastes and how much space you want to sacrifice to your vehicle’s sound system. When shopping for an amplifier it is good to remember that a four channel amplifier will allow you to have more control over your entire vehicle’s speaker system. Many multi-channel amplifiers will also allow you to power a subwoofer as well as stereo speakers.
One area you should not skimp on is your car speakers. Many times those new to car audio will blow their budget on a source unit and amplifier and not have anything left for their speakers. You can have the best electronics on the market but never appreciate their performance capability if you don’t have decent speakers. Even if on a budget, you should be able to find a good set of Kicker car speakers which will compliment any sound system. If your installation allows, it is always a good idea to look at component speakers. Component speakers provide separate mid range speakers and tweeters which will provide a fuller and richer sound.
Of course there can be a lot more to upgrading any car sound system but these are the three items which usually provide the most improvement in sound quality for the dollar spent.
Doc has created many truck and car websites related to car audio, video and
aftermarket accessories over the past decade. His sites offer those "hard
to find" parts and accessories as well as the most popular items on the market.
In addition he has written many informative articles on selecting the correct
products for specific vehicles. 
