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.

If you want more speed from your vehicle, you can add aftermarket automotive equipment to improve your engine’s performance. But there are other ways – shortcuts, if you will – to handle your need for speed.

You don’t have to spend a fortune on engine modifications to achieve this goal. Some simple and affordable steps can also help you improve your 0-60 time. How much you want to bump up the action is up to you – and your budget.

No. 1: Auto Mods to Increase Horsepower & Torque

In the most simple terms, the more you increase the flow of air and fuel to your engine, the more combustion you’ll have and, as a result, the faster you’ll go. Pushing out your vehicle’s exhaust is also important to this equation.

Consider adding a high-performance cold air intake, changing out your headers, switching to a high-flow catalytic converter, installing a wide-mouth throttle body or making high-performance changes to your car’s electronic programming.

Of course, you could always add a turbocharger or supercharger, if you’re ready to get really serious off the line.

No. 2: Lighten Your Load to Increase Your Speed

It’s so simple that you might never have considered it but, the more weight you can get rid of, the faster your car can go.

Do you really need to cart around your bowling ball and three bags of sand in the trunk? Start with obvious, non-essential items and you might be surprised how much weight you can shed.

Add some lightweight rims and swap out your breaks for high-performance two-piece rotors. You could even replace body components with carbon fiber. And, of course, you can always take your spare out but take care you don’t get stuck somewhere with a flat and no way to get back on the road.

No. 3: Better Traction Means Faster Speed

Have you taken a look at your tires lately? Driving around on worn tread isn’t helping your acceleration. In fact, it can hinder it significantly, thanks to a lack of traction and grip. Choose tires rated for high traction to provide that all-important extra grip.

No. 4: Lower Your Profile, Raise Your Speed

The more aerodynamic you can make your vehicle, the more you’ll reduce wind resistance and, thus, improve your speed. You can accomplish this in a number of ways ranging from wings, spoilers, side skirts, hood scoops, etc. You can also lower your vehicle. Having a lower center of gravity will reduce drag and get you where you’re going that much faster.

In Draper, Utah, Laketown Speed and Sound has everything you need to improve your vehicle’s performance, acceleration and speed. Stop by and see us today and let us help you turn your vehicle into the speed-demon of your dreams.

Once summertime rolls around in northern Utah, auto window tinting may become your best friend.

Even on days that aren’t brutally hot, the sun’s intensity can quickly heat up your vehicle. But, in addition to helping keep your car cooler, window tint delivers a host of other benefits.

The Benefits of Having Tinted Car Windows

Adding tint to your vehicle’s windows will help keep your car cooler, even on the hottest of days. This means greater comfort for you and your passengers and you won’t have to use as much AC to cool down the vehicle.

Tint helps protect your investment by blocking the damaging UV rays that cause interior components to crack and fade. Tint also helps protects you and your passengers from the sun and the damage it can cause.

You’ll enjoy added security and privacy after you install auto window tinting. Would-be thieves won’t be able to see what you have inside your car, whether it’s parked or rolling down the road.

Finally, tinted windows help your car look great. Depending on the product you choose, you may even have the option of different shades, such as blue, gray or bronze.

Determining the Right Type of Auto Window Tinting for You

You may not realize it but you have your choice of window tint materials. The right selection for you will depend on your budget and your goals. If you don’t have a lot of money to spend and you don’t plan on having your vehicle for years to come, you can select a basic film with color stabilization.

If you’d like a more enduring product that comes with a lifetime warranty and multiple color options, consider a ceramic or metalized type of tint.

A higher quality tint material will do a better job of keeping your vehicle cool and provide greater UV protection.

Auto Window Tint Installation in Draper UT

If you’ve ever tried DIY car window tinting – or seen someone’s unfortunate attempt – you already know why it’s important to let a professional handle this project.

When applied correctly, you’ll never be able to tell your car has anything on its windows.  Professionally installed tint simply looks like colored glass. No bumps, no bubble and now waves. Just perfectly colored perfection.

Based in Draper, Laketown Speed and Sound provides professional tint services, in addition to car audio installation, boat and RV stereos, motorcycle and ATV sound systems and automotive upgrades. Window tint installation is quick and painless, with most jobs completed in about 1-2 hours.

Contact us today to learn more about how you can benefit from having auto window tinting installed on your vehicle before summer arrives.

If you enjoy music as much as you enjoy off-road adventures, installing an audio system in your Polaris RZR is the thing to do.

This task does not come without its challenges, however, as the conditions and terrain you expose your side-by-side sport vehicle to take their toll on sensitive electronics.

If you want a sound system that will provide outstanding quality and the durability to handle hours on the trail, you’ll have to select components that are specially designed and manufactured for this purpose.

Having a car audio expert to help you with the selection and installation of your RZR sound system is the best way to ensure you get the results you seek.

RZR Sound Systems That Stand Up to the Off-Roading Experience

The first challenge that you’ll face when adding a sound system to any brand or model of ATV, UTV or powersport side-by-side is durability. Components have to be sealed in such a way that they keep out any dust or moisture, either of which will rapidly cause the failure of any given component.

Space is also at a premium in your RZR. That means that all components must be compact enough to mount without compromising the integrity or safety of the vehicle. Wiring connections have to endure continuous vibration along with the bumping and thumping that comes with the territory.

The last issue we have to deal with in sport vehicle sound systems is power. You’re working off of a limited power supply, so you can’t expect normal car audio components to work in this application. This means that all the system’s components must have maximum efficiency.

Options for Your Polaris RZR Audio System

You’ll want to start with a console head unit, so you have all the controls at your fingertips while you’re on the trail – no looking away from the path to mess with your radio. And, of course, you’ll need some good, solid speakers (or a soundbar) that can crank with fidelity, to overcome the noise you’re making – and that means you’ll need an amplifier too.

Now we get to the fun stuff.

If you want to really thump out there, you’ll want a good subwoofer. If you want to stream music from your smartphone or another electronic device, you will need Bluetooth integration.

Depending on your vehicle, you can even choose an overhead sound system or one of our favorites: the RZR sound roof. You’ll be the envy of everyone on the trail when you roll out with one of those, cranking your favorite tunes up to 11.

RZR Audio System & Speaker Installation

If you spend a little time on the internet, you’ll see a lot of DIY RZR stereo system installation videos and blogs. But, before you attempt to install any aftermarket gear in your side-by-side, think about the conditions that equipment will have to endure on the trail.

ATV and UTV sound systems require specialized tools and knowledge, to achieve the level of secure mounting and connections you need.

Laketown Speed and Sound in Draper, Utah, knows the side-by-side audio market extremely well. In fact, most of us have had our RZRs tricked out right here ourselves. We have full fabrication capability, so you know we will install your components right – and they’ll look perfect as well.

Contact us today to schedule your appointment to discuss adding a sound system for your RZR side-by-side, ATV, UTV or other powersport vehicles.