A client recently brought this gorgeous Centurion Ski boat to Sweet Sounds in Mankato to discuss his options for marine audio upgrades. He loved everything about the boat but felt the audio system fell short in terms of bass and system control. We had a look at the design of the audio system and cranked it up in an attempt to qualify where it was falling short. After discussing our plan, the client gave us the go-ahead to start this upgrade project.
Audio System Measurements
We planned to upgrade the existing audio system by adding a second 12-inch Focal subwoofer. Before we started construction, we set up our AudioControl RTA and measured the response of the existing sub. With a baseline established, we temporarily installed an identically-sized enclosure with the same sub in the main storage compartment. We repeated the system performance measurements as we changed the position of the sub and made adjustments to the system. Once we were happy with our measurements, it was time to start the fabrication process.
Sweet Sounds Marine Audio Upgrades
Our fabrication team measured the existing subwoofer enclosure carefully and created an enclosure with the same volume out of 3/4-inch expanded PVC plastic sheets. The team added internal bracing to the enclosure to maximize the performance of the system. Once we finished constructing the enclosure, we wrapped it in black carpet and bolted it into the storage compartment.
As part of our testing process, it became clear that the seat above the storage compartment needed to be open for the bass to exit the space. We cut a hole just beneath the seat cushion to allow the bass to exit and protected the opening with a mesh grille.
Dual Subwoofer Amplifiers
We added a second Roswell RMA 500.2 amplifier to the system to power the second subwoofer. The RMA 500.2 amp can produce up to 500 watts of power when bridged. Thankfully, there were open positions on the power distribution blocks that allowed us to run 4-AWG power wiring to the amps.
Audio System Control Upgrade
The second concern the client had was over the complexity of adjusting the subwoofer level. The factory-installed Clarion radio didn’t make it easy to turn the bass level up or down. We added a Rockford Fosgate level control to the system and split the output to the pair of amplifiers. The bass knob is mounted under the main control console to keep it dry. It makes it easy to control the system. We finished by fine-tuning the sensitivity controls on the amps to give the client more adjustment range.
Another Happy Marine Audio Client
Once the system was dialed in, we took another set of measurements to confirm everything was working as intended. The system was 4.5dB louder at 35Hz and an impressive 7dB louder at 55Hz. Now, the system plays loud without distorting, and the client has the adjustability he wanted. If you are in the Mankato area and are looking for professionally installed marine audio upgrades, drop by Sweet Sounds and speak with a member of our sales team. If you can’t drop by, give us a call at 507-345-8863 or send us an e-mail using our online contact form.
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