In today's vehicles, interior space has become A premium with automakers maximizing every last nook and cranny. Vehicles feel more spacious and comfortable and have more conveniences like cupholders and cubbies to hold everything from cell phones to iPods. While getting the most out of the limited space (especially in a truck) is a good thing, it poses a problem when trying to add caraudio products. Fortunately technology is being pushed and car-audio manufacturers are offering innovative products to work within the limitations and restrictions the automaker creates. The days when amplifiers were required to be big and subwoofers had to be enormous are gone.
Subwoofers
Subwoofers are typically large, bulky, and heavy. This fell right into the consumer's perception that the bigger and heavier the sub, the better the performance. Yet with interior spaces being maximized by the automaker, normal sized subs don't cut it, especially in our trucks. To overcome this hurdle, audio manufacturers developed a shallow-profile subwoofer. The benefits of a shallow subwoofer are that they require much less of a mounting depth and typically less enclosure volume than a traditional subwoofer. Truck owners can take advantage of the reduction in enclosure space needed for the shallow sub. Don't worry, the decrease in profile does not hinder the sub's performance.
Bass no longer has to be an eyesore. With the slim design, installation of the sub and enclosure can now go underneath the seat(s), inside the center console, or on the rear cargo wall. You can still pound your system loud and proud and feel your truck rumble from the slim-profiled sub's impressive deep bass performance.
Amplifiers
Amplifiers have a reputation of being big. But what if you could have all the power and clarity in a small package that would fit in the limited interior space of your new vehicle? You can, so don't let the pint-size amps scare you! It is amazing how technology has allowed the compact amplifier design to be efficient and avoid the perils of overheating. Car-audio manufacturers are taking advantage of the different class technologies available to produce a smaller footprint. These smaller amplifiers are producing a ton of power and, depending on the technology, some are producing the sonic purity of the best.
Installation of the small amplifier comes with great benefit as it no longer becomes the greatest challenge for an installer. Whereas the traditional large amplifier was too big to install under a seat, the new breed fits virtually anywhere. Many of the small amplifiers are also efficient enough that they can be stacked without overheating. This eliminates the need for large amp racks for multi-amp systems, leaving room for your golf clubs.
Combination
Small platforms in both the amplifiers and subwoofers have created greater installation opportunity, particularly for the truck market. Stealth installation is an option because the product size has decreased drastically. Installers can actually install the smaller amplifiers and shallow subwoofers out of sight, leaving the vehicle looking factory, but sounding nothing like stock. If stealth is not your objective and you want to enjoy a little (or a lot of) flash to your audio system, the smaller format allows virtually unlimited options for installation. Big sound with high audio quality, enormous power, and clarity can all be wrapped up in a little bitty system. Don't let the size fool you!
