I have been messing with car audio for 25+ years and still find stuff I didn't know or completely understand. For someone completely new to car audio all this new information can be totally overwhelming. So before you do anything take some time and do some reading. Check out some of these sites, browse through some of the threads on here, and try searching before you post a question. Generally you will get a better response if it looks like you have done a little work first. At the very least get yourself familiar with some of the terms used, ohms, crossovers, bridging, etc. This will help to post an intelligent question that will get a better response usually.

Start here, these sites will answer just about anything you need to know, from the basics to extremely advanced stuff. Be prepared to spend some time reading especially if you are serious about learning this stuff. I keep going back as they keep adding new stuff.

~ Basic Car Audio Electronics

~ Car Audio Free Advice | Stereo Terminology And Education

~ Auto Audio: Choosing, Installing ... - Google Book Search

~ Car Audio Help - Information Site




Here is a good site to learn some of the terms you will come across in car audio.

~ CAR SOUND GLOSSARY OF 12-VOLT TERMS




Some how to's, tutorials, and trouble shooting guides here.

~ Car Alarm, Car Stereo, Mobile Video, and Cruise Control Info for Installers

~ AJ Quick - Random Text

~ home



This should be enough to get you started.

 

Nice post, should be a sticky.

 

Bam... done... NICE post

 

Excellent sticky. Here is another very helpful link.

~ Copy of the CAC Good, Bad, and Ugly List

 

A bunch there I don't agree with but helpful list anyway.

A couple I like

EQ STUFF

AUDIO CALCULATIONS

WIRE INFO

 

Thanks guys, this is not a complete list by any means. If you know of others that would be helpful post em up.

 

Very nice list thank you

 

very useful! tks

 

That list is mostly useless and misleading.

 

I actually have a question I have a 1999 mercedes ml320 which puts out 120 amps from the alternator and it uses 77 amps to run the truck with all of the assecories on including lights, heater, wipers and of coarse all ecu's. right now i installed a pioneer deck with two amps one putting out max 2000 watts the other 1600 watts max with two caps one is a 2.0 farad and the other is a 2.8 farad. which are powering 2 sets of 6 1/2 inch components with tweeters 1 set of 5 1 /4 inch components with tweeters and a set or 6x9 pioneers with four pyle tweeters as well as 2 cerwin vega 12inch subs. My question is can I put bigger amps in as well as subs and what is my limit in wattage with out frying out my ecu or my alternator. I will also like to know do you think i need more caps or just one that runs at a higher farad rating.