iPods are Killing Car Stereos

The Consumer Electronic Association reports that this year’s demand for car stereo systems including satellite radio, speakers, CD changers, etc. will be 28% lower than that in 2006. it seems that today young people do not worry much about sound quality. Around 50% of them consider Original Equipment Manufacturer’s installed stereo to be good enough. Many prefer to install an iPod into an FM transmitter as this is rather cost-effective and allows music portability. So what can help revive the industry?

Another interesting fact is that most of manufacturers are currently producing MP3- and iPod – compatible stereo systems as they are more powerful and are provided with more options than standard ones. Besides they are comparatively cheap. The only problem is that the manufacturers provide these stereo systems into new vehicles. But if you own for example Mazda 3 it will be rather difficult to replace the system. You will have to remove the entire center console and just imagine how terrible the aftermarket deck will look instead of it. Besides it is necessary to admit that modern stock stereos sound much better than 10 years ago.
Despite of the sale decrease the experts predict the revival of car stereo systems in the nearest future. These new ones will be able to work with existing stock systems and provide sound of better quality.