Boat Stereo Installation

I could bring home the best boat stereo money can buy — but without proper installation, it will never sound as good as I'd hoped. So how do I get marine stereo installations right so I can set the appropriate mood out on the water? Find out how to wire a boat stereo correctly the first time.

Installing a Boat Stereo

Image via Unsplash by nearlywinter

Here's how to install a boat radio in five steps:

1. Gather the Right Tools

I get started by making sure I have everything I need for a boat radio install. In addition to the stereo receiver, speakers, and amplifier, I gather these tools and supplies:

• Screwdriver set for securing the stereo and speakers in place.
• Jigsaw, Dremel, or hole saw in the case of a gauge style stereo, like the MC2, for cutting the mounting board to fit the stereo receiver.
• Drill and bits for creating screw holes for the receiver and speakers.
• Wirecutters for trimming the speaker wire safely and precisely and for making butt connections.
• Electrician's snake for placing the speaker wire in hard-to-reach areas.
• Approximately 50 feet of speaker wire for optimal speaker placement.
• Waterproof butt connectors to assist with waterproofing.
• Zip ties to keep the wires together.`

2. Decide Where to Mount the Receiver

Once I've double-checked my list of tools and supplies, I get ready to install the receiver. There's no single perfect spot to mount the receiver since the optimal location depends on the type of boat. To help find the sweet spot, I keep these rules of thumb in mind:

• Make sure the location typically stays relatively dry, even during heavy use. Marine stereos are designed to be waterproof, but keeping it out of the splash zone can ensure that it pumps out high-quality sound longer.
• Aim to place my boat stereo within an arm's length of the steering wheel. With this placement, I ensure that anyone who's behind the wheel can adjust the stereo settings easily.

3. Install the Stereo Receiver

After finding the ideal spot for the receiver, it's time to install. I start by cutting a hole in the boat's console. First, I locate the template that came with the receiver and trace it on the console. Then I use a jigsaw to cut out the hole. Keep in mind, you'll want to avoid using a jigsaw if other controls, gauges, electronics are near.

Next, I place the stereo receiver in the hole I just cut and take a moment to make sure the gasket around the perimeter of the faceplate sits comfortably against the console. When I'm satisfied with the placement, I proceed to mark the location of the four screw holes on the console or use the C bracket that came with the unit.

Then I remove the receiver and drill the four holes. I put the receiver back in place and use the screwdriver to position and secure the four screws. If the receiver includes a support bracket to keep the unit in place, I secure it inside the console.

4. Place the Boat Speakers

Next, I decide where to put the speakers. Keeping them low and below the gunwale will keep the sound inside the vessel.  Try to locate the speakers where they are not firing into a seat or will be covered by passengers and gear. Like the receiver, marine speakers are waterproof and can withstand the occasional splash. For durability, however, it's best to install them where they're less likely to get wet.

With clamp-mounted tower speakers, I can simply clamp them in place. Tower speakers will require the power of an amplifier external to the stereo. With flush-mounted speakers, I can use the same technique as the one I used for the receiver. In the latter case, I locate the template and mark the placement and screw holes. Then I use a jigsaw or Dremel and drill to make space for the speakers before screwing them in place.

5. Wire the Stereo and Speakers

Wiring a stereo in a boat is relatively easy, as each one is color-coded for quick identification. I make sure to connect the red wire to the positive terminal on the battery, the black wire to the negative terminal, and the yellow wire to the battery. Most modern marine stereos don't have a yellow wire, like our MC2. Most boat stereo wiring also includes a blue wire for an external amplifier.

The rest of the wires connect to the speakers. Like the receiver, the speaker wires are color-coded. There will be 4 pairs of speaker wires, front-left, front-right, etc… Be sure to connect the + wire to the + terminal and the – wire to the – terminal on each speaker. 

After wiring, the marine stereo is ready for a test drive. I power it up to make sure it operates correctly before taking it out on the water. Then I queue up my favorite music and let the good times roll.

Helpful Tips for Boat Stereo Installation

Make the installation process as smooth as possible by following these handy tips:

Purchase a Marine Grade Stereo from a Quality Manufacturer

If I have an audio brand I already love, it's tempting to stay loyal and purchase a standard stereo system. Yet I recommend installing a standard system in any boat. A marine stereo is essential since these systems are designed to withstand years of exposure to marine environmental conditions.

Remove Old Speakers Safely

Before installing a replacement system, it's important to uninstall the existing system. I start by removing the mounting screws. Then I slide the speakers out of place, taking care not to damage the wires. I locate the tabs in the back of the speakers and slide them off to detach the wires. If the wiring is soldered to the speakers, I use wire cutters to detach each unit.

Invest in a High-Quality System

It's true that a marine stereo is only as good as the quality of the installation. However, that doesn't mean careful installation can make up for inferior technology. For best results, I recommend investing in the highest-quality system that fits into the budget and following the steps above to install it successfully.

You don't have to be a certified professional to install a boat stereo correctly. Use this how-to guide to wire your boat's sound system and get ready to enjoy your favorite music, no matter where the water takes you. Still searching for the ideal sound system for your boat? Visit Wet Sounds for all your marine audio needs.