Boating season can last virtually the entire year if you’re willing to travel a bit, and those who are serious about their boating vacations want the comprehensive experience. That means not only a high-performance boat and other comfort amenities, but also a sound system that can handle all your needs.

At Laketown Speed and Sound, we offer a wide range of boat and RV audio in addition to our car audio and stereo system installations. If you’re looking into upgrading your boat’s audio system, where should you start and what are some of the primary areas to consider? Here’s a basic primer on the steps to go through when leveling up your boat’s audio system.

Speaker Quality

Generally speaking, the first area to take a look at when it comes to upgrading the boat’s sound system is the kind of speakers currently being used. Boating is a practice that introduces plenty of noise pollution, plus some significant movement and wear-and-tear – you need speakers that can handle this kind of pressure without wearing down.

Not only do we offer high-quality speakers that will provide clear sound to cut through interference, we also offer protective elements for our marine speakers that keep them safe and functioning properly. These protective pieces do not impact the sound quality whatsoever, so don’t be concerned here. In addition, we also offer numerous additional speaker options that can be placed throughout the boat to provide the precise sound quality you’re looking for.

Subs and Amplifiers

Once you’ve ensured your system is being powered by the right kind of speakers, you can move to the power elements involved, namely your subwoofers and amplifiers. Subs provide the kind of bass power you need to be able to pick up lower notes on the water, while amps allow for higher volumes to be attained without stressing your other pieces of audio equipment. These are the elements you need to help your system achieve peak performance rather than topping out at levels below what you need.

Connectivity Features

Finally, in today’s modern world, what good is a boating sound system that can’t hook up to your devices? Luckily that’s not a concern either, as we offer several options when it comes to connecting your smartphone, tablet or other devices to the boat’s audio system. Bluetooth, satellite radio, AM and FM tuners, and even auxiliary inputs are standard features with our marine receivers and speaker systems. We’ll also help you understand any additional battery needs needed for your stereo system so you don’t overtax the boat’s battery.

For more on the stages of upgrading your boat’s audio system, or to learn about any of our car audio or window tinting services, speak to the staff at Laketown Speed and Sound today.

Suspension and body lift kits are the perfect automotive upgrades for anyone who enjoys off-roading – or if you simply want to customize the look of your truck or SUV.

To determine what type of suspension upgrade is right for you, start by considering your goals and your budget. Finding an automotive performance upgrade expert to help you will ensure that you get the results you want at a price that won’t break the bank.

Suspension Lift Kits vs. Body Lift Kits

Although body lifts and suspension lifts create results that can appear much the same, that’s where the similarities end.

As the name suggests, body lift kits are designed to lift your vehicle’s body as much as 3” while leaving the frame unaffected. This upgrade gives your vehicle the appearance of having been lifted with less hassle and cost than a suspension lift. It also allows you to upgrade to slightly larger wheels and tires but doesn’t have a profound effect on the way your truck handles or performs.

A suspension lift kit elevates the entire chassis of the vehicle – body and frame. You will notice a significant difference in how your vehicle handles (on and off the road) and, depending on how much life you want, you can upgrade to significantly larger wheels and tires. This upgrade costs more than a body lift but the results will be a beefier stance and customized appearance.

Why Add a Suspension or Body Lift Kit to Your Vehicle?

Body lift kits are typically done for more aesthetic reasons, like being able to upgrade to larger wheels. It’s ideal, too, if you simply want to increase the height of your ride. You can also use this type of suspension upgrade to level the factory stance of your pickup – which typically are designed with a slightly elevated bed and lower front end.

You may want to choose a suspension lift if you want to take on more challenging off-road conditions, as this increases the ground clearance of your vehicle and allows you to scale larger objects and climb steeper hills. This is also the upgrade to select if you want to improve the way your truck, jeep or SUV handles and performs off-road.

Choosing a Utah Automotive Performance Upgrade Professional

Upgrading your vehicles body or suspension isn’t complex or costly. However, these automotive upgrades should be left to professionals who understand the implications and safety factors involved. Otherwise, you could experience a variety of problems. At best, you might not get the results you envisioned. At worst, you could experience expensive damage to your or even void the manufacturer’s warranty.

In northern Utah, Laketown Speed and Sound is the automotive performance upgrade expert you can trust for installing lift kits, leveling kits and lowering kits. We are based in Draper but we assist customers from throughout the Salt Lake City metro area and all along the Wasatch Front. Contact us today to learn more about how our expert team can help you achieve your body lifting and suspension upgrade goals.

Even in this age of advanced technology and security, thieves continue to target car audio equipment.

Having your car stereo stolen can be costly in several ways. Not only do you lose your investment in an automotive audio upgrade, but thieves rarely care how much damage they do to your vehicle as they hurry to get away with their spoils before getting caught. You’ll have to spend time reporting the crime and making an insurance claim, which will likely cause your premium to increase. Your carrier could even choose not to provide coverage when your policy renewal date rolls around.

Today, the Laketown Speed and Sound team have some pro tips for avoiding theft and damage to your vehicle.

Simple & Cost-Effective Ways to Avoid Car Audio Theft

You can start by using some commonsense techniques to safeguard your vehicle and its contents – including your car audio equipment.

Although it might sound obvious, keep your vehicle locked at all times, even when it’s parked at your home and inside the garage. Because time is of the essence when it comes to criminal activity, thieves tend to prefer the low-hanging fruit. As a result, they may move on in search of unlocked vehicles to plunder, if they can’t access yours right away.

Also take care about where you park and leave your vehicle unattended. In parking lots and garages, look for well-lit areas with lots of other cars around. Thieves tend to target those cars parked in dark, remote locations, as they have a better chance of breaking in undetected.

Finally, don’t leave anything of value within plain view through your car windows. Stow your belongings in the trunk, console, glove box or under the seats.

Window Tinting Helps Provide Vehicle Security

The problem with visibility is that, in most cases, you can’t exactly hide your car audio equipment from view by placing it in the trunk or under the seats.

One way to make it less obvious that you’ve got a high-quality head unit or upgraded car speakers is to get your car windows tinted. Although it may not totally obscure a would-be thief’s view into your vehicle, it might be enough to slow them down or draw attention. Choosing shatterproof automotive window tint will also make it more difficult to break the glass itself.

Not to mention, professional window tinting keeps your vehicle cooler and helps reduce the damage that UV rays can cause to your car’s interior.

Consider an Automotive Security System to Prevent Car Stereo Theft

Installing a state-of-the-art automotive security system is the best way to protect your car from all types of criminal activity, including vehicle theft.

Today’s car alarm systems offer a wide variety of high-tech solutions for preventing theft and break-ins. In addition to the loud alarm that will sound if someone forcefully gains access to your vehicle, you can choose an alarm system with remote alerts. This means you’ll be alerted on your smartphone or tablet if someone tries to break in or steal your car audio system.

In Draper, Utah, Laketown Speed and Sound can help you with all types of car stereo upgrades, window tinting and automotive security systems. Our experienced installers can also recommend other ways to secure your amp, speakers and receiver, to give you the best chance of avoiding the theft of your car audio system. Contact us today to learn more.

If your primary desire for window tinting is based on the aesthetics and style it will add to your vehicle, you’re far from alone. This is one of the most popular reasons people go for window tinting, but it’s important to note that it’s not the only major benefit provided by this upgrade.

At Laketown Speed and Sound, we’re happy to provide window tinting services to clients with a variety of needs and desires, from style elements to numerous other functions of tinted windows. Let’s look at some of these other functions, including some areas you may have heard of and some you might not have been aware of until now.

Vehicle and Crash Safety

For starters, tinted windows don’t only provide aesthetic benefits – they provide safety benefits as well. Tinting windows involves adding a film to them to change their shading, and this film is also valuable in a potential accident because it helps keep the glass in one piece rather than shattered into a bunch of smaller, sharp pieces.

Normal side windows are not laminated with this same film, meaning they’re far more prone to shatter and become dangerous. Even minor window tinting improves this area of safety significantly.

Glare and Vision

Down related lines, tint may actually reduce the likelihood of an accident to begin with. This is because it reduces glare that may be present on the road, making it easier for drivers to see, especially using items like side mirrors that are particularly susceptible to glare when the sun is in certain positions. This is also true at night, when headlights behind you won’t cause the same level of glare when using mirrors.

UV Rays, Energy Use and Interior Materials

Most people are aware of how damaging UV rays can be to the skin, and window tinting helps here as well by blocking up to 99 percent of all UV rays. Simultaneously, this UV blockage limits how hot the inside of your car gets during the sweltering Utah summer, causing you to use less AC and improving your energy efficiency in the process.

Finally, this UV blockage even has an impact on the interior quality of your vehicle. Too much UV light can damage leather interior, crack and fade dashboard coloration, and even discolor cloth seats – but once again, tinting protects your interior here. If you don’t want the dark shade, we can even install a clear film for you that blocks UV rays in the same way but doesn’t change your tint.

Privacy and Security

On top of everything above, window tint is valuable for in-vehicle privacy and safety areas. It stops people from being able to see in as easily, which is particularly important if you have any valuable items in the car – potential thieves will not be incentivized to break in because they can’t see what’s in there.

For more on the numerous additional benefits window tinting provides, or to learn about any of our car audio installation services, backup cameras or other improvements, speak to the staff at Laketown Speed and Sound today.

At Laketown Speed and Sound, we’re your one-stop shop when it comes to every area of car audio upgrades. We’ll assess your current stock sound system and provide recommendations and numerous options for improvements in multiple areas, leaving you with modern, high-quality sound that amazes both you and your passengers.

There are several key components that go into a great car audio system, and at or near the top of any list is a great amplifier, or amp. You’ll have several amp options available to you when making your choice on upgrades – how do you know which is the right option? Here are several of the top factors our team will go over with you during this selection process.

Amp Channels

For starters, it’s important to note that modern amplifiers are available in several different configurations, with different sound channel formats offered. There are units with two, four and even six channels available. The general theme here is simple: For each speaker you’re looking to amplify, you need one channel.

So in essence, if you’re only looking to add a subwoofer to your current system, you may not need more than one channel on your amp. If you’re looking at two woofers or two coaxial speakers, you might need two. A four-channel amp is often used to combine speaker amplification with additional power, allowing you to either dedicate a channel to each speaker or bridge them in some way.

Proper Power Levels

Speakers need the proper levels of power to perform optimally – this is why it’s common for those making upgrades to their audio system to choose their speakers first, then look to the amp that will provide the right kind of power. If you’re just looking to power stock speakers, we’ll help you determine the RMS (root mean square) value and choose an amp that puts out between 100 and 150 percent of that.

In cases where you’re looking to power both speakers and a subwoofer, on the other hand, power is a more significant concern. In some cases you may be able to bridge two channels of a multi-channel amp, but there are others where you might want to consider getting a separate mono amplifier.

Head Units and Compatibility

Finally, especially for those who are building an entirely new audio system, head units are extremely important. If possible, it’s best to buy a head unit with preamp outlets, then an amp that has line-level inputs to give an unamplified signal to the amp. These are qualities not normally found in stock head units, so if you’re unable to change the head unit, you’ll need an amp with speaker-level inputs.

For more on choosing the right amplifier for your upgraded car audio system, or for information on our window tinting, backup cameras or additional services, speak to the pros at Laketown Speed and Sound today.

If you’re considering backup camera installation in your car, truck or SUV, you have plenty of options to choose from. But, if you hope to get the maximum safety and convenience from this rapidly advancing technology, you might want to consider installing a 360º all-around camera system.

Soon, all new vehicles will be required to have backup cameras installed at the factory. But, currently, all-around camera systems are generally limited to higher-end vehicles. Fortunately, you don’t have to buy a luxury vehicle to enjoy the many benefits of this innovative technology.

What are All-Around 360º Backup Cameras?

You’re likely already familiar with standard backup camera systems, which give you a clear view of what’s behind you using backward-facing cameras that display a dynamic image on an in-dash video screen or a rearview mirror display.

An all-around system shows you so much more, including virtually anything out of your field of vision while behind the wheel. Many of these systems include proximity sensors and the ability to alert you, using visual and audio signals or both, of potential hazards and obstructions.

Many of these systems include a dynamic gridline display that can guide you through tricky parking and backup situations, lane changes and negotiating through tight spaces.

Benefits of Installing a 360º Backup Camera System

By expanding your field of vision and eliminating blind spots, rear-facing cameras help you avoid obstacles that could sustain damage or that could damage your vehicle. More important, these systems help you avoid collisions with other vehicles and prevent potentially devastating backover incidents involving people and pets.

When you add an all-around camera system, you can better avoid colliding with other vehicles while changing lanes. You can also navigate through tight spaces without scraping your vehicle or coming into contact with other cars or obstacles.

Some systems use mind-blowing technology to provide you with an overhead, bird’s eye view of your vehicle that makes parking and other tricky navigation seem as easy as playing a video game.

Can You Install an All-Around Backup Camera in Your Car?

With multiple options available for aftermarket automotive upgrades of all types, a backup camera can be installed in virtually any vehicle.

The most basic models can be mounted in your car’s rear bumper. To achieve the all-around view, you have the option of installing a combination rearview and dashcam as well as individual cameras and sensors in your side-view mirrors. Dashcams can help out in many ways, especially with fleet management, companies such as Lytx can provide a dashcam software that will protect the drivers and others, this is why dashcams are beneficial from private to commercial use.

You can select from a variety of enhanced safety features and choose how you want to display your camera views, with some options even available for your smartphone.

Whatever auto upgrades you’re in the market for, Laketown Speed and Sound has the brands and options to fit your budget. Our experienced team understands how important it is to keep you and your passengers as safe as possible on the road. Visit our Draper UT car audio and upgrade shop today to learn more about having backup camera installation for your vehicle.

When you are considering a motorcycle audio system upgrade, you are faced with virtually the same myriad of confusing choices you encounter when upgrading or replacing your car audio components.

But, on top of that, you have some additional challenges to consider, that are unique to bikes.

To get the ideal sound system with the features and functions you really want, consider these factors before you head out to the stereo shop. Ultimately, however, working with an experienced motorcycle audio installer is the best way to get the system you want at a price that won’t break the bank.

Consider Your Goals & Objectives for Your Motorcycle Audio System

The right type of audio components for your bike will depend on what you want to achieve with your sound system.

Do you drive your bike only on the weekend or for special outings, or do you use it as your primary form of transportation? Do you want true high-fidelity sound or would you be happy with slightly lower quality? How loud do you like to play your music and programming? Do you want to listen on the road or only while you’re parked? Do you want to be able to connect your electronic device to the system and stream content or play music from your phone?

Finally, what other functions would you like to have available? The sky’s the limit when designing your system so make a list of all the features you want before you start making decisions.

Consider Your Bike’s Specific Setup Challenges

There’s no denying that motorcycle audio systems can pose a number of logistical challenges. Without the myriad spots that cars and trucks have to stash speakers, amplifiers and other components, installing a motorcycle audio system requires careful planning and, in many cases, customized solutions.

In addition to finding creative placement options for speakers, amplifiers and supplemental battery power (if necessary), you will also have to consider the location of your controls. Most bike stereo installations incorporate simple handlebar controls but, depending on the type of system you install, you may want to consider alternative (or additional) control options, such as a touchscreen interface.

Consider the Unique Challenges that Motorcycle Sound Systems Face

The open-air nature of a motorcycle requires using audio system components designed to stand up to dust and moisture. In fact, sealed, waterproof components are usually imperative.

The other challenge to consider is the constantly fluctuating levels of noise you experience while riding. Fortunately, today’s high-tech digital sound processors can adjust your system’s tone and volume settings based on speed and other factors.

To ensure you get the system that suits your needs and your budget, trust the experts at Laketown Speed and Sound to help. We are based in Draper and, with a wealth of experience, our expert installers can work closely with you to design the ideal motorcycle audio system.

When you spend a small fortune on an RV, you might expect your motorhome’s stereo system to be of at least decent quality. Unfortunately, RV manufacturers are notorious for sending motorhomes off the production line with extremely poor-quality sound systems.

Ask an RV owner and they’re likely to tell you that their factor stereo system was little more than an AM/FM radio and tiny speakers that remind them of tin cans on strings.

Fortunately, you don’t have to spend a fortune to upgrade your motorhome stereo system to incorporate clear, high-quality sound and the features you need in today’s high-tech world.

The Sad State of OEM Motorhome Audio Systems

When you go in search of a new motorhome, the chances are good that you won’t be making any buying decisions based on the factory stereo system.

RV manufacturers understand this and, consequently, tend to skimp seriously on these features, choosing instead to spend money on flashier amenities and convenience features (flat screen TVs, for example). So, when you roll your new motorhome off the lot – even if it’s a Class A model – the chances are good that you’ll be disappointed with the stereo system.

Options for Upgrading Motorhome Audio Equipment

You have many options for improving the sound system in your RV, depending on your goals and your budget.

You may want to start by replacing your motorhome speakers with higher quality models. You may also want to add either coaxial or component speakers to your system, for a fuller, richer sound quality. If you enjoy strong bass, a subwoofer will provide the thump you need.

Replacing your head unit is also important, particularly if the factory equipment doesn’t have the range of features you want. You can choose a head unit with video touch screen, allowing you to add other functions now or in the future.

Finally, depending on the type of head unit you select, you may need a standalone amplifier. Some head units have onboard amplification. However, if you want clear, clean sound and the ability to crank up the volume, you’ll need more power than an onboard amp can provide.

Choosing a Motorhome Stereo Installation Expert

Although RVs are similar to passenger vehicles in many ways, their electronics are far more complex. For that reason, you need to find an installer who understands the correct way to design and install your new components.

You might think using a motorhome audio expert will increase your cost but, in almost every case, the opposite is true. Because they know what they’re doing, they can design a system that meets your needs while keeping the price down as much as possible.

In Draper, Laketown Speed and Sound is the locally owned and operated expert in RV audio and video systems. We also install onboard navigation systems, vehicle security systems, backup cameras and all types of aftermarket vehicle upgrades. Contact us today to design and install an affordable, high-quality motorhome stereo system for you.

How old is your boat stereo system? More importantly, does it produce reliable, high-quality sound?

An afternoon spent on the lake is always better somehow when you have the perfect soundtrack playing in the background. Whether you like to stream your music from a subscription service, play tunes from your own electronic device or groove to satellite radio, you need audio components that can stand the test of time, despite the variety of harsh conditions you expose them to.

The Unique Challenges of Marine Audio Technology

Moisture is the mortal enemy of sensitive electronic devices, along with salty air, heat and dust. Not surprisingly, those are the precise conditions your boat stereo has to endure here in northern Utah.

Most boaters also like to enjoy a little speed while on the water. As a result, you’re frequently bouncing along over waves and wake. This constant jostling puts even more strain on your electronics and their connections.

Finally, getting clear, high-quality sound can be difficult in a marine installation, due to the open-air conditions and the myriad sounds of the water, engine noise and the other watercraft buzzing around.

Signs It’s Time for a New Boat Stereo

If you aren’t getting the volume, quality or clarity of sound you want from your current system, it’s time to consider an upgrade. Likewise, if your system has started to deteriorate or provide sporadic service, it’s likely succumbing to the will of the water.

You may also want to explore a new marine audio installation if you’re still fighting with the factory AM/FM radio or single-disc CD player. With options like Bluetooth connectivity, USB and other input ports and even wifi options for streaming content, it’s time to bring your boat into the modern era of marine electronics.

Choosing a Boat Stereo Installation Expert

You have to be careful when selecting an installer for your new boat audio system. Boat mechanics aren’t well-versed in these types of electronics. Traditional car audio installers may also lack a true understanding of how the marine environment affects the design and installation of audio and video components. It’s also critical that any electronic equipment be specifically designed to handle the moist, corrosive environment of the water.

Located in Draper, Laketown Speed and Sound provides expert marine audio installation for clients throughout northern Utah. We understand the challenges and we rise to the occasion, designing systems that can handle the extreme elements your boat endures.

We have a wide variety of boat stereo components to choose from, along with other options to improve the comfort and convenience of your watercraft. Contact us today to learn more. We look forward to designing and installing the marine stereo system of your dreams, at a price that will definitely float your boat.

Summertime is the best time to get out on the road, hit the trail or spend time camping in the northern Utah wilderness. Summer’s almost here and there’s no better time to trick out the sound system in your car, truck, SUV or off-road vehicle.

This summer’s trends are all about making your on- and off-road journeys safer, more connected and more enjoyable that you ever thought possible.

So what should you be doing with your car audio system this year? Why not one (or all) of these splash-worth upgrades?

Apple CarPlay & Android Auto

These state-of-the-art infotainment systems function as touch- and voice-activated car assistants, exactly like those featured on your favorite handheld devices.

Having Apple CarPlay is exactly like having an iPhone in your dash – and you use it exactly like you do your smartphone. You can ask Siri questions, get directions through your map app, play music and even have your car read you incoming text messages.

Android Auto is also similar to the Android functionality you’re used to on your phone, although not as loyally replicated as Apple CarPlay. To add apps to your Android Auto, simply download them as usual on your phone and sync with your vehicle.

Compact & Efficient Car Audio Components

As popular as massive amplifiers and subwoofers have been for decades, today’s focus is on smaller yet highly efficient car audio components that can seamlessly integrate with your factory-installed components.

So, rather than replace your entire car stereo system, you can add an amplifier, upgrade the speakers you choose, add a subwoofer or add sound processing capacity to improve sound quality.

With these more compact components, you have to worry less about disturbing your vehicle’s interior or having custom installation work performed. And, as today’s advanced components draw substantially less power than their older counterparts, you won’t have to worry about over-taxing your battery or alternator.

Car Audio Connectivity Upgrades

In today’s highly connected world, you need the ability to connect your mobile devices to your vehicle. But you also need to be able to connect to the internet – for a myriad of reasons, including having access to your cloud-based media and entertainment libraries.

With today’s technology, you can do all of that but, potentially, connect to your friends’ vehicles too.

From your car, you can monitor and control your smart home system, home security feeds and even turn lights off and on using IoT technology. All the while, you can maintain your safety on the road using voice-activated technology and in-dash digital display monitors.

But, most important, you’ll be able to pump your summer playlist from any streaming service or your iCloud account.

Whatever type of car stereo upgrades you’d like to make this summer, call on the experts at Laketown Speed and Sound. We are located in Draper, Utah, providing exceptional service to our northern Utah customers. We are your local experts for performance car parts, navigation systems, automotive security and alarm systems as well as all types of car audio systems and installation. Contact us today to learn more about upgrading your vehicle for a summer of laughter, music and fun in the Utah sun.