Some drivers are content to sit in their cars and listen to light music. However, other drivers prefer a more nuanced experience with the audio in their car. They may want to listen to their favorite songs at higher volumes or deeper levels. Or, they may want to access their phones or their favorite radio stations while on the road.

For these drivers, an aftermarket car audio system can enhance their experience. Below are some tips to help you choose important elements of an aftermarket system.

Replace the Speakers

Your car's speakers will have a big impact on how your car audio sounds. So, you can make a big difference just by replacing the car's factory speakers with new ones.

With car speakers, you have two options. One option is the full-range  4x6 car speakers. These speakers include all the audio elements in a single package, including the woofer and various levels of tweeters. Woofers produce the lower range, while tweeters handle the higher ranges. Full-range speakers are the simplest option for replacing the factory ones.

The other option is the component speaker. These speakers break down the components so you can choose and install them separately. Component speakers are best if you want a customized experience that provides a realistic sound with great depth.

Add Amplifiers and Subwoofers

Another way to tweak the sound without replacing the entire stereo system is by adding an amplifier. Factory stereos have an amplifier built into the head unit, but the amplifiers are not often very strong. So, when you turn up the volume, you hear distortion. An aftermarket amplifier can handle louder volumes without the distortion.

The subwoofers are responsible for the deep, resonating bass. While some car owners turn their cars into a driving nightclub, you can get more sensitive levels of deep bass depending on the size and power of your additional subwoofer. The addition of more bass also helps in the depth department with music.

Look Into Smartphone Integration

If you want to replace the entire head unit, one feature you'll want to consider is smartphone integration. Most modern car stereos should integrate with smartphones. However, iPhone users will want to look for a badge that states the new system works well with Apple technology.

For those who use other systems, such as Android or Windows, you have two options. Most head units feature a USB port that allows you to plug your phone in and access your apps. However, if you want to connect wirelessly, look for systems that connect via Bluetooth. Smartphones can generally connect to any device via Bluetooth.

Consider GPS Navigation

Aftermarket car stereos aren't just for playing music. Many head units also feature apps. One such app allows you to access GPS navigation. With these systems, feature GPS antenna and navigation software that allow you to access maps right from the console. They usually access GPS technology from the most common companies.

Depending on the unit, you may be able to use the GPS navigator on your smartphone. It might sync with the head unit display, or it might simply access the audio via Bluetooth. These features allow you to use your own navigation, such as for saved trips.

Think About Your Radio Options

Many car owners want to sync with their smartphone to access music saved there. Some go old-school with compact discs. And some go really old-school with radio.

Except radio isn't so old-school anymore. In fact, at bare minimum, you can look into a car stereo that offers you a built-in HD radio tuner. With this option, you can access all your local radio stations in high definition. Likewise, you also have additional stations available at each frequency.

Perhaps you're a fan of satellite radio, which offers you a plethora of station options. You can connect to these stations via modules such as SiriusXM. Just remember that satellite radio usually requires a subscription.

Access your car's audio in ways personalized to your preferences with a new stereo system. Let X-Pert Tint and Auto Alarms help you choose and install a new car audio system.