For car audio fans this is still a question on their lips, should I go for looks over performance? Or performance over looks? Of course, this question is mainly for stereo and the amps, as subwoofers generally have a limited look; however, you can give your car audio system that pimped out look by looking at a variety of interesting systems with different forms and colours.
All car audio specialists agree performance is the utmost important aspect of a in-car music system; yet, looks are without a doubt one of the reasons why people buy a certain car stereo and accessories. After all, no one wants a system that is ugly, with unpractical oversized buttons and small barely visible letters. Not only is it unsightly to the eye, it is also impractical.
Although overall stereos have to be the same shape, alterations can be made through choice of colour, the aesthetics of the display screen and the layout of the buttons. The main frame of a stereo can generally be found in black or silver, with colour additions on the display screen or buttons - these are usually are red, green and blue.
Unlike stereos, amplifiers are not as limited in their aesthetics. Although, traditionally a flat rectangle, there is no reason why they cannot be made into interesting and unusual shapes. Already, the market has seen tubular and triangle amps added to car audio systems. With amps, you can pretty much have free reign over design; yet, manufactures still stick to the traditional rectangle metal style mainly due to its popularity.
Even though you could say 'amps' have been typecast, there are still diverse looking models on the market. Mcintosh with its compelling but ostentatious look gives the impression that the amp is screaming for and demanding attention. Brax, a German creation often provides that cold steel and accurate persona, with its devastatingly precise structure. No angle is rounded or wrong with this beautifully precise piece of engineering.
On the other hand you've got models that simply grab you attention, without being slick, smooth or ostentatious. The Blast BL-500, a model that gained my notice immediately, shows offs its curves and angles in a zesty lime green colour. Colourful and with definite but smooth angles, this model certainly looks the part in a car audio system. Edge, a company that relies on its eye catching looks, as well as extreme power, continues to prove the point that amps can still be beautiful with its tangy orange amp.
Car audio systems do not have to be unnecessarily ugly or even boring looking, as there are quite a number of models out there that will give your car audio system a unique and individual look. However, don't sacrifice quality for looks as having a high quality should be a top priority.
