Category: Competition Guide
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Distortion aka Clipping
When an amplifier or signal source (such as a head unit) tries to output more than its power capacity; it causes wave distortion or commonly referred to as Clipping. Music can be distorted which is why we recommend checking any music you play on playing through your sound system for clipping on a software such…
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Audio Styles and Competitions
SPL METERING: A sound level meter (also called sound pressure level meter or SPL) is used for acoustic measurements. The diaphragm of the microphone responds to changes in air pressure caused by sound waves. That is why the instrument is sometimes referred to as a sound pressure level meter (SPL). This movement of the diaphragm,…
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Audio Formats and Classing
MECA has a SPL class calculator to determine your competition class. MECA and other organizations have online rule books containing all the general rules as well as formats and classing restrictions in each, here some restrictions that are helpful to understand and are pretty standard for most competitions. Vehicle/Build Type: TRUNK: Includes builds confined and…
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Audio Tips: At the Competition
Charge Before/in between runs Just as you should charge your batteries the night before a show, when competing in multiple formats, plan to allow your voltage a chance to rebound between runs. Some shows are tight on time so always verify with your judge if you have enough time to charge and pull back in…
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Audio Tips: The Day Before A Competition
Create an organized playlist If using a USB you may want to create a demo folder and comp folder. Make sure you have all versions of any music required for competition such as burps, sweeps and/or approved commercial songs. Always check your music for clipping. Click here to learn more. Tune your system **Always consult…
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Audio Comp General Rules
Basic Terminology Hertz – The hertz (symbol: Hz) is the unit of frequency in the International System of Units (SI) and is defined as one cycle per second. Bandwidth – the span of frequencies your car audio system can play most efficiently. Your bandwidth is typically your peak frequency plus or minus 5Hz. Run a sweep on a meter to get exact data. Example: Peak is 39Hz,…
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Understanding Bandwidth
In car audio aka the basshead community, Bandwidth is the span of frequencies your car audio system can play most efficiently. Consult with your car audio technician on what the recommended bandwidth for your car audio build is as it can vary from system to system. Each build and bandwidth is unique however the general…