Adding a sound system

[dnifedem85]

I am looking to add a killer sound system to my boat. I have a 18' bow rider with a bench seat in the back. I am thinking of adding a sub or two under the bench seat with an amp. Maybe upgrade the mid speakers that came with the boat. Any suggestions on how to keep everything dry, since everything tends to get wet. I am worried if I run a full enclosure, water can build up inside with the humidity and short things out. Can I just run everything to a extra marine battery? Anybody with any experience have any tips?

 

[Silvertip]

Re: Adding a sound system

Any time you mention "killer sound system" you also should be thinking about what you will use to power this killer system. Yes, as a minimum you need a separate deep cycle battery but beyond that you need to think about how you intend to charge that battery. Yes - your engine has an alternator but its output is generally not high enough to fully charge a deeply discharged battery in a 10 or 15 minute run back to the dock. What you need is an on-board charger that you plug in when you do get back to the dock. If you don't have shore power, you have a charging issue that there is no simple solution for short of forgetting the high power amp. No - a solar panel will not work unless you have one about half the size of your boat. Lastly, everyone understands your desire to pound out sound. Unfortunately sound carries very long distances over water which really annoys cabin/home owners and other boaters that don't have the same taste in music as you.

 

[5150abf]

Re: Adding a sound system

We use Rockford Fosgate at work, they have an extensive line of marine stereo components but like Silvertip said, if you are gonna sit on the lake and jam a sub be ready for some unwanted attention from home owners or the DNR.

 

[180shabah]

Re: Adding a sound system

...Any suggestions on how to keep everything dry, since everything tends to get wet...

Use marine components and don't worry about it.