When it comes to building a quality car audio system, many beginners often make avoidable mistakes that can lead to frustration, unnecessary expenses, and subpar sound performance. In this guide, we’ll explore the top 5 mistakes people make when choosing car audio equipment and provide tips on how to make smart choices for your car’s sound system.

1. Overlooking Compatibility Between Components

One of the most common mistakes beginners make is failing to check the compatibility of different audio components. Not all amplifiers, speakers, and subwoofers are designed to work together. For example, pairing a low-power amplifier with a high-powered subwoofer can result in poor performance and potential damage to the equipment.

How to avoid it: Always check the power ratings (measured in RMS) and impedance (measured in ohms) to ensure that your amplifier can drive your speakers or subwoofers efficiently. Match the equipment’s specifications to avoid underpowered or overpowered setups.

2. Focusing Too Much on Wattage

Another common pitfall is getting fixated on wattage numbers, assuming that more watts always mean better sound quality. While wattage does matter, it’s not the only factor that determines sound performance. High wattage alone won’t deliver better sound if the speakers are of poor quality or if the installation is poorly executed.

How to avoid it: Look at the overall sound system quality. Prioritize speaker sensitivity, build quality, and proper installation over raw wattage. A well-matched system with moderate wattage will often outperform a high-wattage system with mismatched components.

⠀3. Neglecting Soundproofing

Many beginners invest heavily in high-end speakers, amplifiers, and subwoofers but neglect one crucial aspect of achieving good sound: soundproofing. Without proper soundproofing, road noise and vibrations can ruin even the best audio equipment’s performance.

How to avoid it: Invest in sound-deadening materials such as foam or butyl-based sound dampeners. Installing these materials in key areas like doors, the roof, and the floor of your vehicle can drastically reduce outside noise and vibrations, leading to a clearer and more immersive sound experience.

4. Ignoring the Importance of Installation

Even the most expensive car audio components will fail to perform properly if not installed correctly. Poor wiring, bad grounding, or incorrect placement of speakers can lead to signal loss, distortion, and even damage to your equipment.

How to avoid it: If you’re not confident in your ability to install the system yourself, consider hiring a professional. If you do plan to install it on your own, carefully follow installation guides and invest in quality wiring kits. Proper grounding and placement are critical for maintaining sound clarity and protecting your investment.

5. Failing to Plan for Future Upgrades

Many beginners buy a complete car audio system without considering future upgrades. This can lead to difficulties when trying to improve sound quality down the line, as you may have to replace major components or deal with space limitations in your vehicle.

How to avoid it: Plan ahead by choosing equipment that allows for easy upgrades. For example, opt for an amplifier with more channels than you currently need or choose speakers that can handle additional power if you plan to upgrade your amplifier later. This forward-thinking approach will save you money and frustration in the future.

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Choosing the right car audio equipment can be challenging for beginners, but by avoiding these common mistakes, you can build a system that delivers great sound without breaking the bank. Focus on compatibility, avoid obsessing over wattage, prioritize soundproofing, ensure proper installation, and plan for future upgrades to create a setup that will last and perform well.

We want to share with you the results of testing the Pride M35.18 subwoofer in Carlos’ armored vehicle from Las Vegas. 

We believe many of you have already seen his subwoofer tests on Facebook and Bass Wars.

Pride M35 18″ subwoofer  is a serial model of our range of subs. Everyone can buy this model on our website.

Voice Coil: 3.6 flat aluminum
Fs: 26.9 Hz
RMS: 3500 W
Impedance: D0.75 Ohms

The subwoofer cone is made of pressed paper, and the dust cap is real carbon.

4 x Amplifiers were connected. Cmax batteries consistently held 15.6 -15.7V and the signal purity was checked with an oscilloscope.

The power supplied was as follows:

250W / 500W / 2000W / 4000W / 8000W / 16000W / 32000W

All measurements were taken at a frequency of 61.6 Hz.

The final results were:

37,847 W — result: 178.44 dB
43,490 W — result: 178.32 dB

A thermal sensor was installed inside the enclosure. We waited for the subwoofer to cool down to 77-78F after each measurement.

The cooling process was very quick. Everyone who watched the live broadcast saw it. No other subwoofer cooled down during testing like the Pride M35.

What’s the secret? The subwoofer has an innovative cooling system. Aluminum booster-heatsink installed as an additional element. This part is difficult to install during assembly and takes time, but it allows the subwoofer to handle cooling and heat dissipation extremely well. This works not only during tests but also in everyday use in any type of enclosure.

The M35 18 subwoofer was handled the power 43490W and this is a real record among all of Carlos’ tests. This is an incredible result and we are thrilled.

Our goal was not to take first place. We knew perfectly well that a subwoofer with a higher Fs and a completely different design would be better suited for Carlos’ setup. But it was important for us to demonstrate to our audience the capabilities of the subwoofer in extreme conditions and we did it.

A big thank you to Carlos for the test and to everyone who watched the live stream.

P.S. And if we had blown the subwoofer, we could have repaired it in just a few minutes. The M series subwoofers have a modular suspension that can be replaced very quickly without the use of glue.

Many car enthusiasts wonder how a car’s body type affects the quality of car audio. There are numerous myths and misconceptions about this. It’s essential to distinguish between what is fact and what is fiction. In this article, we will explore which aspects truly affect sound quality in a vehicle and how much a car’s body type can (or cannot) impact acoustics.

Myth 1: Bigger Cars Always Provide Better Sound

One common myth is that the larger the vehicle, the better the sound system will perform. The belief stems from the assumption that a larger interior volume enhances acoustic effects, producing deeper and more powerful sound. However, in practice, the quality of sound depends more on the system’s acoustic setup and soundproofing than on the vehicle’s size.

Reality: Larger vehicles, such as SUVs or minivans, can indeed offer a bigger space for sound waves to travel, which might benefit subwoofers. However, this effect is minimal without a high-quality audio system and proper soundproofing. In fact, larger interiors may also introduce challenges with sound reflection and absorption, which can compromise audio quality if the system is not well-tuned.

Myth 2: Sedans Have Poorer Sound Due to Trunk Isolation

Some believe that sedans provide inferior sound quality because the subwoofer is installed in an isolated trunk, potentially reducing bass power and depth. There’s some truth to this, as a closed trunk can muffle low frequencies.

Reality: In sedans, subwoofers may indeed produce less bass, especially with improper installation. However, this is not inherently a body type issue but more of an installation challenge. Professional installation, taking into account the acoustics of the trunk and rear seats, can resolve this issue. The use of ported enclosures or acoustic vents can significantly improve bass transfer.

Myth 3: Coupes Are Best for Car Audio

Coupes are often seen as ideal for car audio because they are smaller and have a more “concentrated” sound environment. It’s believed that sound is less likely to “get lost” in the space, which could lead to cleaner, sharper audio.

Reality: Coupes can indeed create favorable acoustic conditions due to their smaller interior volume. However, the limited space might also restrict options for speaker and subwoofer placement. Ultimately, audio quality in a coupe depends more on system tuning and component quality than on the compactness of the space.

Factors That Influence Sound Quality More Than Body Type

1. Soundproofing: Without proper soundproofing, any car body type will suffer from external noise interference, affecting sound clarity. The level of vibration and resonance in the body also impacts audio purity.
2. Speaker Placement: Speaker and subwoofer placement often plays a more critical role than the body type. Poor installation can lead to phase issues and loss of audio quality.
3. Interior Acoustic Treatment: Regardless of interior size, proper acoustic treatment is key to clean sound. Factors such as the materials used in the car’s interior and the reflective and absorptive surfaces greatly influence sound waves.

Conclusion

A car’s body type can influence the perception of sound, but it is far from the most important factor. The quality of car audio is determined primarily by the equipment, tuning, and installation. So, before blaming your car’s body type for poor sound, it’s worth paying attention to the acoustic setup and soundproofing in your vehicle.

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the world of vintage car audio systems. In this article, we’ll take a nostalgic journey into the past to explore the retro sound systems that defined automotive sound in decades gone by. From the iconic designs to the distinctive features, vintage car audio systems evoke a sense of nostalgia and appreciation for the simpler times of motoring.

1. The Golden Era of Car Audio:
   • Explore the heyday of car audio, typically considered the 1950s to the 1980s, when car manufacturers began integrating audio systems into vehicles.
   • Delve into the iconic designs of vintage car radios, often featuring chrome accents, push-button controls, and analog displays.
   • Discuss the evolution of car audio formats, from the early AM radios to the introduction of FM radio, cassette decks, and eventually, CD players.
2. Iconic Features and Design Elements:
   • Highlight the unique features that defined vintage car audio systems, such as the vertical tuning dials, mechanical push buttons, and flip-down faceplates.
   • Discuss the craftsmanship and attention to detail in the design of vintage speakers and amplifiers, which often featured wood paneling and brushed metal finishes.
   • Explore the integration of audio technology into the overall interior design of classic cars, with audio controls seamlessly blending into the dashboard.
3. The Sound of Nostalgia:
   • Reflect on the distinctive sound quality of vintage car audio systems, characterized by the warmth of analog audio and the crackle of vinyl records played on in-car turntables.
   • Discuss the nostalgia associated with listening to music on vintage car radios, evoking memories of road trips, drive-in theaters, and cruising down Main Street.
   • Explore the resurgence of interest in vintage car audio among enthusiasts and collectors, who seek to preserve and restore classic sound systems for modern enjoyment.
4. Preserving Automotive History:
   • Highlight the efforts of collectors, restorers, and vintage audio enthusiasts to preserve and maintain classic car audio systems for future generations.
   • Discuss the challenges of sourcing vintage audio components, from rare vacuum tubes to obsolete cassette decks, and the creative solutions used to keep these systems operational.
   • Explore the role of vintage car audio in automotive culture, from classic car shows and vintage audio conventions to online communities dedicated to sharing knowledge and resources.

Vintage car audio systems offer a window into the past, capturing the essence of a bygone era of motoring. Whether it’s the iconic designs, the distinctive sound quality, or the sense of nostalgia they evoke, these retro sound systems continue to hold a special place in the hearts of automotive enthusiasts worldwide.

Find out more news from the world of car audio and about new products from the Pride Car Audio brand on our website!

Treat yourself to a wide range of equipment from the Pride Car Audio brand: subwoofers, speakers, amplifiers and much more are already available for purchase on our website and from dealers in the USA

Car audio isn’t just about powerful speakers and a quality amplifier—it’s also about proper acoustic preparation of your vehicle. One of the key factors that influences the sound quality of your car’s audio system is soundproofing. In this article, we’ll explore how soundproofing enhances sound quality and why it’s essential for maximizing the performance of your car audio system.

What is Car Soundproofing and Why is It Important?

Car soundproofing is a set of measures designed to reduce noise from external and internal sources within the vehicle cabin. While driving, engine noise, tire sounds, aerodynamic noise, and vibrations create a background that can interfere with enjoying clean, high-quality sound from your audio system.

Soundproofing not only eliminates unwanted noise but also minimizes vibrations that can distort the sound from your speakers and reduce the overall acoustic performance. With proper soundproofing, you can enjoy a more detailed, immersive, and deeper sound experience.

The Impact of Soundproofing on Car Audio

1. Improved Acoustic Environment
   Soundproofing helps create a more closed acoustic environment inside the car. This allows sound to travel without external distortion or reverberation. As a result, you get clean and detailed sound without interference from outside elements.
2. Vibration Reduction
   Speakers and subwoofers often generate powerful low frequencies that can cause vibrations in the car’s body. Soundproofing materials absorb these vibrations, preventing them from being transferred to the car frame, allowing the audio system to perform more consistently, and delivering clear, rich sound.
3. Reduction of Background Noise
   Soundproofing reduces external noise penetration (from the engine, road, and wind), making listening to music more enjoyable. Even at low volumes, you’ll hear every detail of a track without being drowned out by background sounds.
4. Optimizing Bass and Low Frequencies
   Low frequencies require precise control and stability. Soundproofing the trunk and doors improves subwoofer performance, allowing for better bass distribution. This is especially important for those who appreciate powerful, deep bass in their car audio system.

Types of Soundproofing Materials

Several types of materials are used for effective soundproofing:

• Vibration-damping materials — designed to reduce vibrations and prevent them from being transferred to the car’s body. These materials are applied to metal parts of the car, such as doors, trunk, and roof.
• Soundproofing materials — used to reduce external noise intrusion. These materials are often installed on the floor, ceiling, and trunk.
• Sound-absorbing materials — reduce internal resonance and echo, creating cleaner and more detailed sound.

How to Choose and Install Soundproofing?

For the best results, it is recommended to use a combination of vibration-damping and soundproofing materials in different parts of the car. It’s best to trust the installation of soundproofing to professionals, as the process requires specialized skills and equipment.

Car soundproofing is an integral part of quality audio preparation. It significantly improves car audio quality by eliminating external noise, reducing vibrations, and optimizing the acoustic environment. If you aim to achieve the clearest and most immersive sound in your vehicle, be sure to consider soundproofing.

At Pride Car Audio, we offer a wide selection of car audio equipment that, when paired with proper soundproofing, will help you enjoy the perfect sound from your audio system.

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We are excited to introduce the Pride M45.12 subwoofer, designed for those who demand the best from their car audio systems. With a 12-inch carbon fiber cone (not laminated) and an RMS power rating of 4500W, this subwoofer is built for maximum performance. It features a modular, replaceable moving part assembly, consisting of a carbon fiber cone, suspension, voice coil, centering spiders, and a carbon dust cap. The durable aluminum frame and powerful magnetic system make the Pride M45.12 a premium choice for any car audio setup.

Key Features of the Pride M45.12 Subwoofer

• Power (RMS): 4500W
• Voice Coil Diameter: 4 inches, flat aluminum
• Coil Wire Insulation: Polyimide
• Frame Material: Aluminum
• Magnet Size and Quantity: 256mm x 26mm, 3 units
• Centering Spiders: 250mm, 6 units
• Cone and Dust Cap Material: Genuine Carbon Fiber

Cutting-Edge Technology and Design

The Pride M45.12 is equipped with advanced features that set it apart from the competition:

• Next-Generation Cooling System: This innovative system protects the subwoofer from overheating, enabling it to operate under intense conditions for extended periods.
• Upgraded Magnetic System and Suspension: A high-linear suspension and a reinforced magnetic system provide stability and reliability even in extreme environments.
• Expanded Centering Spider with Progressive Ribbing: This design improves sound accuracy and maintains stability at high power levels.
• Lightweight Carbon Fiber Cone: The unique cone shape reduces the weight of the moving parts while increasing the strength of adhesive joints for enhanced durability under heavy loads.

Magnetic System for RMS 4500W

At the heart of the M45.12 is a powerful magnetic system composed of three 256mm x 26mm ferrite rings. These high-quality magnets create a strong magnetic field, efficiently transmitted through low-carbon steel poles, minimizing energy loss. Black galvanic coating on the poles improves heat dissipation, further protecting the system from overheating under maximum loads. The sturdy construction is reinforced with three high-strength bolts, ensuring protection during transport and use.

4-Inch Voice Coil

The voice coil is wound with flat aluminum wire, encased in polyimide insulation, and mounted on an anodized aluminum frame. This design maximizes heat exchange with the magnetic system, ensuring efficient performance at high power without thermal compression.

Carbon Fiber Cone

Made from genuine carbon fiber, the cone is both lightweight and durable, contributing to the overall efficiency and power of the subwoofer. The cone surface area is larger than most subwoofers of this size, allowing for greater bass output.

High-Performance Suspension

The suspension is engineered to deliver optimal linearity and travel, ensuring high precision and sound quality. Its low mechanical losses contribute to the accurate and powerful performance that car audio enthusiasts seek.

Durable Centering Spider

Built to withstand high loads, the centering spider and lead wires are made from premium materials like aramid thread. This provides durability and stability through millions of oscillations. The spider is securely attached to the frame with screws and reinforced with an indicator ring to ensure safe operation even at maximum excursion.

Aluminum Frame

The cast aluminum frame is specifically designed for Pride’s premium subwoofer lines. It is both strong and rigid, efficiently dissipating heat from the magnetic system, ensuring long-lasting performance.

Carbon Fiber Dust Cap

The carbon fiber dust cap stabilizes the cone, reduces unwanted vibrations, and protects the magnetic gap from dust. Its high strength-to-weight ratio makes it significantly more reliable than traditional paper or plastic dust caps.

Modular Design for Easy Upgrades

The Pride M45.12 features a modular design, allowing users to easily replace or upgrade parts. Our specialized modules are tailor-made for each subwoofer model, ensuring perfect fit and top-tier performance. Available modules include:

• High-quality voice coil
• Durable suspensions with lead wires
• Precision-engineered cone
• Carbon fiber dust cap

This modularity makes maintenance and customization simple and effective.

Who is the Pride M45.12 For?

The Pride M45.12 is available in two impedance options: D0.75 and D1.5, allowing users to choose the ideal setup for their audio system. It is perfect for installation in either ported or bandpass enclosures (4th/6th order), making it an excellent choice for both casual enthusiasts and professionals. Whether your customers are aiming for loud, powerful sound or competing in car audio competitions, the Pride M45.12 delivers outstanding performance with deep, rich bass that can be felt throughout the vehicle.