Long distance driving has become much more pleasurable with the introduction of advanced audio-video technologies, designed to provide the ultimate comfort to the driver and the co passengers. Tanmoy Mitra reports

Thanks to technology, there is virtually no limit to the extent of modifications that one can make with the entertainment system of a vehicle. Most cars are equipped with at least a CD player and CD recorder with more advanced option of a CD changer, which can hold multiple disks. Among audio modifications, more recent additions include DVD players and LCD screens. TV screens are fitted in the dashboard, on the ceiling, and even on the rear of the front seat  for viewing by rear seat passengers.

With the popularity of downloadable and easily formatted MP3 and WMA files, listeners now are spoiled for choice over what they wish to view and listen to. However, the ideal car audio-visual system is not necessarily the loudest one, nor the most expensive. It's the one that best meets your preferences and budgets.

Audiovisual systems
Factory installed stereo systems are usually sub par in features and performance, unless they are premium products. Package upgrades from the dealership would probably cost more money than if you were to choose one after buying your car. To get the perfect sound, it may often be necessary to install a complete audio component system, which comprises speakers, amplifiers, subwoofers and tweeters.

A bit of time and effort spent in customising the car entertainment system will go a long way in adding to the pleasure of your ride, especially since they have become a lot more affordable now.

Car audio setup accessories
Amplifiers
Installing a quality stereo amplifier is essential to improve the sound quality through your speakers. An amplifier takes a signal from a source and makes it louder. Amplifiers will improve the sound quality of the music at all volume levels. Single channel amplifiers, dual channel amplifiers and multi-level channel amplifiers are the different types of amplifiers available in the market. Alpine, Sony, Hifonics, JL Audio and Kenwood are the leading car amplifier manufacturers in the world.

Capacitors
Car audio capacitors are used to store additional energy for the amplifier. Audio capacitors supplement the regular power supply of the car in order to ensure the smooth functioning of the amplifier.

Speakers
Car speakers are the most basic requirements for an audio set up and it is economical. You can find car speakers in a wide range of prices, depending on the size, power, number of speakers, brand name, among other factors.

Subwoofers
A subwoofer is a speaker that is designed to reproduce very low bass frequencies, typically between 20 Hz and 150 Hz. It enhances the quality of the music by providing playback of low bass frequencies at high levels. Rockford Fosgate, Alpine, Kicker are a few leading subwoofer manufacturers in the world.

Tweeters
A loudspeaker for reproducing the highest sound frequencies. Tweeters require the least amount of power. The tweeter is designed to produce high frequencies such as 3500 Hz and above

CD / MP3 and DVD changers
Today's CD changers play CDs, DVDs as well as MP3s. Equipped with a fully functional remote control, multifunctional camera, game controls and functions that are easy to use, one can play their favourite tunes or watch a classic film at the press of a button

MP3 players can play audio CDs, CD-R/RW discs and MP3 files in a digital quality sound. MP3 players are cheaper than CD players and include features such as advanced error-correction, programmable track memory, digital anti-skip memory, professional digital stereo and hands free Bluetooth. These players allow you to skip, search, play, pause, and repeat. MP3 car stereos are also are provided with AM/FM tuners that can store a number of FM and AM stations. The latest MP3 car stereos are equipped with SD, USB and iPod connections to provide better services.

When car video monitors were first introduced in the market, they primarily consisted of either an overhead or flip down monitor. These types of monitors were geared mainly towards parents who took long trips in the family minivan with their kids. These days, there are quite a few more car video monitor options available to consumers with varying reasons as to what they are used for.

Of course the market is still filled with parents keen on keeping children occupied during long rides, but now people are installing monitors to entertain business clients, review DVD presentations on the way to a meeting or keeping track of the latest cricket scores. Aside from the overhead and flip down monitors other types of car video monitors available to consumers include: in-dash monitors, headrest monitors, sun visor monitors, and mirror monitors.

In-dash receivers
Satellite radios
A satellite car radio receives digital radio signal from a communications satellite, which covers a much wider geographical range than terrestrial radio signals. Satellite radio service is usually available through monthly subscription, which will give access to music, talk shows, sports games, and many more. In India WorldSpace provides satellite radio services.

Car GPS navigation systems products
Car GPS navigation is a software aided form of navigation, which guides you to your destination while driving. GPS units help the driver navigate the city by giving travel direction. GPS will warn you when you enter a new speed zone, aid you in safe driving, and give you voice alerts. These features help reduce speeding tickets, traffic violation fines, and traffic accidents. GPS units are available as portable systems and also as in-car units.