By Gideon V. – Sonic Electronix Editor

Marine audio products are built to survive elements that regular electronics cannot handle, such as light rain, moisture and harmful sun rays. Marine stereo components are great for building stereo systems in boats, motorcycles, and outdoor areas because they are water, fog, salt, and UV ray resistant. These products use only the strongest materials, so you can enjoy your stereo system in the outdoor environment without worrying about rust and corrosion.

In terms of expandability and features, marine head units are quickly becoming equals to aftermarket car stereos. The Sony CDX-H905IP is a marine MP3 CD player with iPod control. This splash-proof marine head unit has a built-in iPod interface cable for iPod controls, charging and playback. You can take your iPod with you and use your stereo faceplate to control your playlists while sailing at sea. If you have an iPhone, you can add on the Scosche PassPORT IFWA for plug and play charging of the iPhone 3G.

The CDX-H905IP has a rear RCA input for further expandability options, such as satellite radio or navigation. The sealed, flip-down design keeps the internal circuitry protected from moisture and dirt. The faceplate has customizable red and blue color schemes and its rounded shape looks as though it were a part of your boat’s controls.

Although the CDX-H905IP includes a wireless remote control, you can add the Sony RM-X55M wired marine remote control. The Sony RM-X55M sends a signal to the CDX-H905IP internally, so you don’t have to point it at the stereo for remote control operation. This further protects the stereo from the outdoor elements since you don’t have to mount the stereo in an open area.

For a total boat sound system, you should consider adding marine speakers to your boat. A great set of marine speakers for your boat are the Sony XS-MP1620B. These 6-1/2” 2-way boat speakers are a great addition to your boat stereo system. As they handle 45 watts of RMS power each speaker, you should add a four-channel marine amplifier to power them. A head unit, such as the CDX-H9051P, only provides 17 watts of RMS by 4 channels.