System for Yacht

Get car audio gear, you aren't going to be able to critically listen for long periods of time on a boat(I know its impossible, have tried). Besides you will need weather proof speakers and the most inexpensive way to do that is with car audio then build the cabinets-I say you will need weather proof speakers because there will be temperature swings, humidy issues and various other potential problems I wouldn't want to risk it. Me and my buddy just put 4-12's and 2 component sets and 3 amps in his new cigarette boat, and boy o boy does that thing fly!!! we didn't need to waste the money on audio stuff, should have saved it for repairs when we break stuff. ~Tim

Important to use marinized 12 volt electronics as we all know the environment will be hostile to conventional home electronics. OTOH, if your audio system is intended for use when on shore power and if you run your AC when away (keeping humidity down), then you will have some more choices. Do you have an inverter and where is the location of the vessel?

Thanks guys, I think the Alpine system sounds like the best idea so far. What is a good website to find info on high end car audio?

dont worry about the weatherproof speakers...they are a gimmick...I lived on Lake Washington with my runabout moored outfront for 5 years...Alpine head unit, cheap soundstream 4 ch amp, Boston pro6.4's & 2 10" subs. Never did I have a problem with the weather or the elements damaging anything. You will be soooooo unhappy with any of the marine speakers out there. I tried them first & they lasted about a week before I gave them to my neighbor for her boat.

Salt water is the worst, highly corosive to electronics. I have a Jensen unit (marine division) in my boat and think it's fine. Thought about having an alternative when on shore power but that would be overkill on a 33 foot boat!