Marine Audio
Building and upgrading your marine sound system is easy at West Marine. We carry marine receivers, marine speakers, marine audio amplifiers, marine audio antennas and more. You’ll find portable speakers designed to stand up to the elements and marine audio accessories to personalize the installation and use of your devices. Our selection of marine audio includes devices from brands like JL Audio, Fusion, Ecoxgear, Dual, Clarion, Poly-Planar and others, with water resistance and UV-resistance built in for use on your boat.
Need help finding the right marine audio gear for your boat? Check out our article on choosing marine speakers for a full rundown on boat speakers and our article on our top picks for marine speakers for some of our best-selling speakers. In the market for a stereo unit as well? Check out our article on choosing a marine stereo.
Audio System FAQ
Selecting the ideal marine audio system depends on several factors:
- Boat Size & Layout: Larger boats may require more speakers and amplifiers for optimal sound distribution.
- Environmental Resistance: Choose waterproof or water-resistant components to withstand marine conditions.
- Power Output: Open-air environments require higher wattage to produce clear sound over wind and water noise.
- Audio Features: Consider Bluetooth compatibility, multi-zone control, and equalizer settings for customization.
West Marine offers a range of marine audio systems designed for durability and high-performance sound on the water.
Marine audio systems are built specifically to endure harsh marine conditions:
- Waterproof & Water-Resistant Components: Designed to prevent water damage.
- Corrosion-Resistant Materials: Protects against salt and moisture exposure.
- UV-Treated Components: Prevents sun damage to speakers and head units.
- Shock & Vibration Resistance: Ensures durability in rough water conditions.
Unlike standard audio systems, marine-grade components ensure longevity and reliability in extreme environments.
Many marine audio systems offer advanced connectivity options:
- Bluetooth: Allows wireless streaming from smartphones, tablets, and other devices.
- Wi-Fi Compatibility: Some systems support app-based control for remote operation.
- USB & AUX Inputs: Provides wired connectivity for additional flexibility.
- Multi-Zone Audio: Enables separate volume control for different areas of the boat.
Wireless functionality enhances convenience and eliminates the need for traditional wired connections on the water.
A complete marine audio system typically consists of:
- Head Unit (Stereo Receiver): The control center for audio playback.
- Speakers: Marine-grade speakers designed to deliver clear sound in open environments.
- Amplifiers: Enhances power output for louder, distortion-free sound.
- Subwoofers: Adds deep bass and improves overall audio quality.
- Wiring & Connectors: Marine-rated cables for corrosion resistance and reliable connectivity.
West Marine provides a wide selection of marine audio components tailored to different boat sizes and audio preferences.
Proper installation and maintenance are essential for long-term performance:
- Installation: Securely mount speakers for optimal sound dispersion and use waterproof wiring for protection.
- Wiring Management: Route cables through waterproof conduits to prevent water exposure.
- Regular Cleaning: Rinse with fresh water to remove salt buildup, especially in saltwater environments.
- Inspect Connections: Periodically check for corrosion and ensure all connectors are properly sealed.
- Protective Covers: Use when the system is not in use to prevent UV and moisture damage.
Following these maintenance steps will ensure long-lasting performance from your marine audio system.
Marine audio systems offer several advantages over standard audio equipment:
- Durability: Built to handle marine conditions like water, salt, and UV exposure.
- Superior Sound Quality: Designed for clear audio even in open and noisy environments.
- Water & Corrosion Resistance: Extends the lifespan of your audio system.
- Custom Audio Experience: Features like Bluetooth, multi-zone control, and EQ settings enhance usability.
Investing in a marine-specific audio system ensures reliable performance and high-quality sound on the water.