Do you need to boost your car audio system? Are you tired of weak bass and sound? The best car audio sound processors can help you transform your entire order to one that you’ll love. Cars are great places to listen to music, especially when you’re traveling a long haul. However, having to tolerate marginal sound quality is never a welcoming idea.
These car audio digital sound processors (DSPs) come as the ultimate solution for a wide variety of car audio issues. They improve sound quality, and audio performance, and help your system reach its full potential. You now do not have to put up with the poor sound in your car. You can work with the listed DSP car audio, or make simple improvements on the installed ones for noticeable results.
Our research shows that AudioControl LC7i is the best DSP for car audio systems. The LC7i is considered the best choice for those who want to upgrade their existing car audio system. This product offers superior sound quality and features such as Bluetooth connectivity, a USB port, and an easy setup process. In addition, this product has been tested by our experts and they found it to be reliable and compatible with all types of cars.
Table of Contents
List of the Best Car Audio Sound Processors
1. AudioControl LC7i – The Best DSP for Car Audio
The AudioControl LC7i Output Converter works excellent. This 6-channel audio line-out converter is designed for everyone who loves listening to music. It lets users keep the original factory-installed source unit, and enhances system performance. You can count on your LC7i to deliver great sound quality. The best part is that this converter has a bass frequency restoration feature. With this feature, you will be able to enjoy better bass responses. This makes the LC7i ideal for people who want to listen to music at home or while driving.
It’s also designed to automatically correct for low-frequency response (bass roll-off) standards with most factory-installed audio systems. AudioControl’s Accubass circuitry is unique and exclusive for maintaining and restoring the bass frequency when the volume is turned up It also includes AccuBASS to provide maximum sound quality as well as improve audio performance. It makes the LC7i one of the best car digital sound processors.
Furthermore, the LC7i optimizes sound quality and achieves maximum output by allowing flexibility of audio signals downstream, powering these signals to multiple or single factory amplifiers. This converter is compact enough to fit into most of today’s space-constrained cars. Its small size makes it easy to install into your car. You can control the volume of the low-frequency output using an ACR-2 dash remote. The LC7i stereo receiver is well suited for a variety of factory stereos. It comes with a detailed user manual so you can easily use it.
Features
- Multiple channel line output converters
- AccuBASS bass restoration circuitry
- Multiple speaker level inputs
- Internal channel summing
- Multiple preamp outputs
- Level matching controls
Pros
- Indicator LEDs
- Bass restoration feature
- Maximum sound quality
- Improved audio performance
Cons
- Relatively heavyweight
2. Taramp's Pro 2.6 S – Best Car Digital Audio Sound Processor
Taramp’s Pro 2.6 digital audio processor is a fantastic audio control sound processor and great for the price. With just a touch of a button, this equalizer allows easy audio adjustments through the intuitive interface and an LCD. This digital audio processor features two input channels and six output channels. Furthermore, it has a scroll button to enable simultaneous adjustments. It has an integrated 3-band parametric EQ that is fully adjustable for each of the output channels.
What’s more, is, this processor features an adjustable limiter. It has a compact design to fit most of today’s space-constrained vehicles. It is, therefore, easy to install. An instructional manual is included in the package to help during the installation process.
What’s more, you can count on this digital audio processor to improve your car’s audio system and sound quality. The audio generator produces a variable sine waveform. The integrated high and low pass filters enhance accurate sound. Taramp’s Pro 2.6 S is a good quality audio processor, and you can count on it to deliver excellent sound.
Features
- LCD display
- Intuitive interface
- Handy scroll button
- Parametric 3-band EQ
- Two audio input channels and six output channels
- Integrated high and low pass filters
Pros
- Simple to use
- Accurate sound production
- Real-time audio adjustments
- Lightweight and compact design
- Scroll button for simultaneous adjustments
Cons
- Does not support Bluetooth
3. Stetsom STX 2448 - Best Budget DSP Car Audio
Stetsom STX 2448 digital audio processor makes a perfect addition to your car audio system. This audio control DSP is of high quality, 32-bit, and features fixed function. The integrated processing functions that are contained in this device include treble and bass controls for sound improvement.
There is also the scaling of two digital inputs, limit-cycle-free, dynamic range compression, soft volume, soft mute, second-order IIR filter, and multiple cascaded stereo high-precision. And you know what, all these features make Stetsom STX 2448 the best DSP processor.
On top of that, this digital audio processor has a convenient compact size that makes it perfect for most of today’s space-constrained cars. It features four channels – the sound adjustments are also customizable for an enhanced experience.
This processor is suitably lightweight and easy to install. Low and high pass filters can be set for accurate sound production; you can count on this DSP for clarity loudness. The multiple crossover frequencies allow you to control it easily. The package comes inclusive of an instruction manual for easy use and control. It is considered the best budget DSP car audio due to the lowest cost as compared to others.
Features
- Four channels
- Convenient compact design
- Customizable sound adjustments
- Numerous built-in processing functions
- High-quality, 32-bit digital audio processor
Pros
- Easy to use and install
- Compact and lightweight
- Customizable adjustments
- Many integrated built-in processing functions
Cons
- Does not support Bluetooth
4. Sony XM-GS6DSP – Best Car DSP Amplifier For Bass
The Sony XM-GS6DSP amplifier is specially designed for all who desire a great in-car audio experience. It is designed with 6-channels, all with class-D amplification. This amplifier is capable of various rear speaker configurations. It will fill any car with a dynamic and clean sound of subwoofer power. The minimal audio interference is crystal-clear, even the loudest, as it comes from a compact amp. This car DSP amplifier has 4.1 channel time alignment as well.
Besides that, the sound can be customized with app control. The integrated high and low pass filters enhance accurate sound. Sony XM-GS6DSP is the best DSP amplifier for car audio and comes in a sturdy aluminium case for durability. It is conveniently lightweight and has a compact size for easy installation. It is designed to connect to your car audio via Bluetooth for easy control.
Features
- Customized sound
- High and low pass filters
- Heavy-duty aluminum case
- DSP with channel time alignment
- Multiple channels of class-D amplification
Pros
- App control for customized sound
- Class-D amplification technology
- High subwoofer power
- 3-year warranty
- Accurate sound
Cons
- Lacks bass restoration
5. Dayton Audio DSP-408 – Best DSP Amplifier For Car Audio
Dayton Audio DSP-408 does a great job when it comes to improving audio systems in a car and home. This car audio DSP allows you to control your sound system. This digital signal processor car audio is feature-rich with a 4-input and an 8-output. It has an integrated 10-band parametric EQ that is fully adjustable for each of the output channels. Other features include crossover settings, input/output mixing, and time alignment for excellent functionality.
Another thing is, that this digital signal processor car audio delivers real-time signal processing to assure the ultimate control. It has complete audio customization for the application of specific installations. Moreover, the graphical user interface is easy to use. There is an optional Bluetooth dongle that allows app control and streaming. The wired remote control is also available. The best part is, as earlier stated, you can use it in your home as well.
Features
- Easy-to-use Graphical user interface
- Time alignment feature
- 4-input/8-output DSP
- Input/output mixing
- Built-in EQs
Pros
- Can be used at home
- Optional Bluetooth dongle
- Real-time digital signal processing
- Complete audio customization
- User-friendly graphical user interface
Cons
- The Bluetooth dongle sold separately.
How can I improve the sound quality of my car?
You can make several improvements to your sound system to make it reach its full potential. Hopefully, the pro tips listed below will help you a great deal and yield noticeable results.
Tips to Improve Sound Quality
Replace Car Speakers
More often than not, speakers come last in any manufacturer’s mind. They, therefore, do not give them the attention they deserve. Most of the new systems still use inexpensive speakers and amps, so the quality of sound is poor. You can change this by purchasing new aftermarket speakers, and you will be surprised at how significantly your sound quality will improve. A tighter bass and more clarity are expected.
Use High-quality music files
Whenever you store music files in a music player, they likely lose some frequency information due to compression. Do not settle for just the default settings. Instead, use little compression if you want to use an MP3 player, smartphone, or iPod in your car. You can also use a higher audio quality when you are streaming. A higher bit rate translates to better quality music as well.
Bypass your music player's built-in DAC converter
The built-in DAC may not offer a good enough performance in the car as with listening with earbuds. Your smartphone being your music player often, you will notice a difference when connected to a car stereo system. To avoid this, connect the smartphone to the aftermarket stereo through a USB stereo. That works to bypass the device’s DAC and thus a better sound quality.
Use sound deadening material
Engage sound deadening products such as Hushmat, and Dynamat to reduce exterior noises, vibrations, and road noise. That will improve the sound of the system. Firstly, do not install your speaker on a door panel- its thin metal vibrates, and the music is not accurate. The deadening products work to reduce vibrations and result in a more precise and stable sound. These products also serve to reduce interior noise levels in the car, so you do not always have to turn the music up for better sound.
Add a car amplifier
Car amplifiers boost any speakers for a more powerful performance. Installing a separate amplifier is essential as it provides additional power to any stereo. It makes a significant difference in making your system sound better.
Addition of a signal processor or equalizer
The interior of your car may also affect sound quality. For instance, plastic and glass surfaces reflect sound, while seat covers and carpets soak up the sound. Poorly located speakers make matters worse. The poor quality of sound may cause ear fatigue; an equalizer will come in handy to eliminate the peaks. They give multiple points for frequency response adjustment.
A parametric equalizer varies the width and center points of each EQ band so you can narrow down on the problematic area. Sound processors work to increase bass response and eliminate frequency response peaks. When an EQ is appropriately used, there will be a notable difference. You need to set it properly for optimal performance.
Build a better sub box
A subwoofer box should be sealed appropriately for better performance. Any air leaks will adversely affect sound quality. The sub box with correct interior volume is also important for superb performance. You can even resort to buying a premade enclosure that will work with your sub-box.
Engaging crossovers
Most in-dash receivers now come with inclusive frequency filters that work with speaker and preamp outputs. For subs, high pass filters eliminate the low bass from full-range speakers. A cleaner volume will be achieved. Experiment with the cross-over points to find the ideal bass.
Set amp gains properly
It is noteworthy that the gains control only works to adjust the input signal delay amount that comes into the amplifier. When cranked up too high, you will experience a nasty distortion. The volume control of the receiver should be turned up to ¾ way, and then turn the gain amp up till a distortion is heard. Back it off and you are good to go.
Add a Subwoofer
Add a subwoofer, and you will be surprised at what you have been missing. A good subwoofer brings proper balance and accurate sounds. They also work to relieve the speakers. A subwoofer can be adjusted to preferred musical tastes.
Final Verdict on Choosing The Best Car Audio DSP 2020
Digital sound processors (DSP) are game-changer in-car audio market; they are a must-have for audio enhancement. These devices help the audio system reach its full potential. You can count on them for a better sound quality experience. Audio sound processors are an excellent addition to your car’s sound system. Install one of these, and you will be surprised at what you have been missing.
