Best Stereo Systems For Boats: Enjoy Music On Water

Marine stereos are a must-have for anyone who wants to listen to music while sailing the high seas. But with so many options available, it can be tricky to choose the right one for your boat. In this article, we'll introduce you to some of the best marine stereos on the market and give you a buyer's guide to help you make an informed decision.

When it comes to marine stereos, durability and sound quality are key. Marine stereos need to withstand exposure to the elements, including water, salt, and sun. They also need to be powerful enough to drown out the sound of the engine, waves, and wind. Other features to look out for include smartphone compatibility, Bluetooth connectivity, and USB ports.

- Fusion Entertainment MS-RA70: This stereo offers a simple and sleek design, a high-quality amplifier, Bluetooth connectivity, and a full Apple or Android interface.

- Kenwood Bluetooth Digital USB AUX AM/FM Radio: This complete marine audio package includes a stereo and four marine-grade, water-resistant speakers. It also features hands-free calling and impressive Drive EQ technology.

- BOSS Audio MGR350B: A stylish and innovative stereo with USB, AUX, and Bluetooth connectivity. It's compatible with all smartphones and MP3 players and has a UV-coated front panel for sun protection.

- Aquatic AV AQ-MP-5BT: This stereo has a unique internal device shelf that allows you to charge your phone while playing music. It also features Bluetooth connectivity and a bright display.

- Clarion M205: A water-resistant stereo with an amplifier and an LCD display. It also includes an Aux port and a stylish blue backlight.

Water-resistant vs Waterproof

When shopping for a boat stereo, it's important to understand the difference between water-resistant and waterproof products. All marine stereos are designed for use in boats and outdoors, but they differ in terms of the conditions they can handle. While both water-resistant and waterproof stereos offer protection from the elements, there are key distinctions to keep in mind.

Water-resistant stereos, also known as weather-resistant stereos, are designed to protect against humidity, salt air, and sun exposure. They have circuit boards dipped in a plastic coating, which forms a barrier to safeguard the copper circuits from corrosion. Additionally, they are made with UV-resistant materials to prevent the plastic from becoming brittle and breaking down due to sun exposure. However, these stereos are not meant to be exposed directly to water and should not be rained on or splashed. A splash cover can be used to protect them from water.

On the other hand, waterproof stereos offer enhanced protection against water ingress. While they share the same protections as water-resistant stereos, they are also sealed against water. This means they can handle rain, splashes, and even hosing down, but they are not designed to be submerged. Waterproof stereos typically have a larger faceplate that overlaps the cutout, allowing for a rubber gasket to seal it to the dash and prevent water from getting behind. They may have a waterproof faceplate only or a fully sealed chassis, usually made of stainless steel, aluminum, or heavy-duty ABS plastic.

When choosing between water-resistant and waterproof marine stereos, consider the level of water exposure your stereo is likely to experience. If you anticipate direct water contact, a waterproof stereo is the best option. However, if your stereo will be mounted in a relatively protected area and you primarily need protection from humidity and salt air, a water-resistant model should suffice.

Water-Resistant Marine Stereos:

• Fusion MS-RA70: This stereo offers a sleek design, a powerful amplifier, Bluetooth connectivity, and a full Apple or Android interface. It's easy to install and fits traditional car stereo holes.
• Kenwood KMR-M328BT: This stereo features Bluetooth, Spotify, Pandora, Alexa voice control, SiriusXM tuner, dual phone pairing, and a remote app. It has a conformal-coated circuit board and an anti-glare positive backlit LCD display.
• Clarion GR10BT: This compact and easy-to-install stereo includes a built-in amplifier, rear USB and AUX inputs, a UV-protected face and controls, and smartphone charging via USB.

Waterproof Marine Stereos:

• Pyle PLMRB29W: This budget-friendly stereo offers Bluetooth connectivity, a built-in microphone for hands-free calling, and a remote control. It has a waterproof faceplate and is sealed against the elements.
• Rockville RGHR2: This loud and powerful marine receiver is waterproof and includes a wired remote. It has a built-in amplifier, USB and RCA AUX inputs, and two sets of RCA outputs.
• BOSS Audio Systems MGR300B: This weatherproof stereo features Bluetooth connectivity, a built-in amplifier, and USB and MP3 support. It has an IPX5 weatherproof rating.

UV protection

When looking for the best boat stereo, it's important to consider UV protection as part of your purchase. Marine stereos are designed to withstand the elements, and this includes protection from the sun's rays.

Importance of UV Protection

• The sun's UV rays can damage your boat stereo over time, so it's crucial to choose a stereo with built-in UV protection. This will ensure that your stereo doesn't crack or fade due to sun exposure.
• Look for stereos with a UV-resistant coating on the front panel, like the BOSS Audio MGR350B, which is designed to survive in the open ocean.

Water Resistance

• While UV protection is important, it's also crucial to ensure that your chosen stereo is water-resistant. It will inevitably come into contact with water, so make sure it can withstand splashes and rain.
• A stereo with a waterproof or water-resistant design will protect its internal components and ensure longevity.

Installation and Placement

• When installing your stereo, consider its placement. If possible, mount it in a location that minimizes direct sunlight exposure. This will reduce the impact of UV rays and prolong the life of your stereo.
• You may also want to consider a stereo with a theft-deterrent faceplate to prevent unauthorized access.

Regular Maintenance and Care

• To maintain the UV protection of your boat stereo, clean it regularly and keep it away from direct sunlight as much as possible.
• Use a marine-safe cleaner or a UV protection spray to enhance the stereo's resistance to fading and cracking.
• Some products, like the 303 Marine Aerospace Protectant, offer UV protection and can be applied to the stereo's surface to prevent sun damage.

Product Recommendations

• The BOSS Audio MGR350B In-Dash Weather-Proof stereo is a great option, as it offers both UV protection and water resistance. It also has a stylish design and multiple connectivity options.
• The Fusion Entertainment MS-RA70 is another recommended choice, known for its sleek design and high-quality sound. It has a bright display and full Apple and Android interface, making it easy to control your music.
• For a complete marine audio package, consider the Kenwood Bluetooth Digital USB AUX AM/FM Radio. This system includes four 400-watt marine-grade speakers and is ideal if you're looking for a comprehensive setup.

In conclusion, when choosing the best boat stereo, UV protection is a crucial factor to consider. By selecting a stereo with built-in UV protection, you can ensure the longevity of your device and maintain its performance even when exposed to the sun's rays. Remember to also prioritize water resistance and consider the placement and maintenance of your stereo for optimal results.

Stereo placement

• Mounting Area: Choose a mounting area that is protected from water. This could be on the dashboard or in the cabin. Bracket-mounted and flush-mounted stereos are available, so select the one that best suits your boat.
• Size and Fit: Marine stereos come in different shapes and sizes, so ensure the stereo you choose fits the available space on your boat. The US standard size is 2" x 7", but some stereos may be more compact or larger (e.g., 4" x 7").
• Ease of Installation: Installing a marine stereo can be a DIY project, but it's important to have some expertise in electronics and access to the right tools. If you're not confident, consider hiring a professional to ensure a correct and safe installation.
• Wiring and Connections: When installing the stereo, pay attention to the wiring. Marine-rated wiring is essential, and all wires should be tinned to prevent corrosion in salt water conditions. Ensure that the connections are colour-coded and correctly matched to the stereo and boat's power source.
• Speaker Placement: In addition to stereo placement, consider the location of your speakers. Place them optimally for the best sound experience. If you're installing multiple speakers, ensure they are positioned to provide clear and balanced audio.
• Water Resistance: Marine stereos should be water-resistant to handle spray and humidity. However, they are not waterproof, so it's important to protect them from direct water contact. Consider a radio cover to shield your stereo from hosedowns.
• Sun and UV Protection: Sun exposure can damage marine stereos, so choose a model with UV-protected faceplates, controls, and displays. This is crucial if your dashboard is often exposed to direct sunlight.
• Corrosion Resistance: To ensure the longevity of your marine stereo, look for models with rust-resistant metal components and conformal-coated circuit boards to prevent corrosion.
• Amplifier: Most marine stereos have built-in amplifiers, but if you want louder and clearer audio, consider adding an external amplifier. Ensure the amplifier's power rating matches the speakers' power-handling specifications.

By considering these factors and planning the installation carefully, you can achieve a marine stereo setup that provides an enjoyable listening experience on the water.

Stereo power

When it comes to stereo power, the first thing to consider is the environment in which a boat stereo will be used. Marine stereos need to be able to withstand sun, water, salt, and corrosion, so they are designed with water-resistant, UV-resistant, and anti-corrosion protection in mind.

The power output of a marine stereo is an important factor to consider, as the stereo will need to be loud enough to be heard over the sound of wind, waves, and engine noise. The Fusion MS-RA70, for example, has a built-in amplifier with 25 watts RMS and 50 watts peak power per channel, while the Boss Audio MGR350B offers 20 watts RMS and 60 watts peak power per channel.

Some stereos also offer the ability to adjust the sound with built-in EQ settings, like the Kicker KMC2, which has a built-in EQ with preset curves to help you get the best sound quality.

If you're looking for a stereo with a high power output, the Pyle PLMRB29W is a good option, with 75 watts peak power per channel, while the Wet Sounds REV 12 tower speakers are the best option for maximum volume, as they are the biggest tower speakers you can put on your boat.

In addition to power output, the number of channels or zones that a stereo can handle is also important. The Clarion M608, for example, offers 4-zone audio control, allowing you to split the boat into four distinct areas, while the Fusion MS-BB100V2 offers 2-zone audio.

When choosing a marine stereo, it's also worth considering the number and type of inputs and outputs, as this will determine how you can connect to the stereo and what other equipment you can connect to it. For example, the Fusion MS-RA70 has rear USB and AUX inputs, as well as discrete pre-outs and a sub-out for each zone, while the Boss Audio MGR350B has front and rear or sub pre-amp outputs.

Finally, it's worth considering the ease of installation, as some stereos may require cutting a hole in your dashboard or widening an existing space. The Kicker KMC2, for instance, fits into a standard gauge opening, making installation simple, while the Rockville RGHR2 requires a custom installation as it doesn't fit a standard gauge opening.

Stereo features

When it comes to choosing a stereo for your boat, there are a few key features to look out for. Firstly, it's important to ensure that the stereo is water-resistant, if not waterproof, to protect it from any water splashes or rain. Additionally, look for a stereo with a UV-coated front panel to protect it from sun exposure. To prevent corrosion, ensure that any metal components are rust-resistant and that the circuit boards have an anti-corrosion coating.

In terms of sound quality, opt for a stereo with a built-in amplifier to ensure clear and clean sound, even when faced with background noises like wind and waves. If you're looking for even more power, consider investing in an external amplifier. When it comes to connectivity, Bluetooth, USB, and AUX connections are standard, allowing you to play music from a range of devices. Some stereos also offer additional features like hands-free calling, voice control, and compatibility with streaming services like Spotify and Pandora.

When choosing a marine stereo, it's also important to consider the size and shape to ensure it fits your dashboard or pre-existing holes. Finally, for an easy installation process, look for a stereo that includes mounting hardware and clear instructions.

Frequently asked questions