Entertainment through your ride

ENTERTAINMENT is very important in a car. Not only is it functional but these days it is also an essential part of a car. Car audio video equipment, or car entertainment, could be said to have become a primary need in Jakarta, where motorists deal with terrible traffic on a daily basis. In such a situation, car entertainment is the most effective way to deal with the boredom.

However, choosing the right audio video equipment that matches one’s needs is not easy. First and foremost, one has to consider the personality of the car owner and, of course, the availability of space in the car. Determining the type of speakers, size of equipment and compatibility with the whole audio video system is the next step.

Currently, a variety of products are available on the market. Customers can choose from different brands, features and prices. Quality also comes at different levels and you can choose a system that suits your budget. Generally speaking, a better quality product costs more – although a pricey product does not always go hand-in-hand with high quality.

Before moving onto the next step, it is recommended that you decide what kind of entertainment system you want to install in your car. Do you want a system with good audio quality, or would you prefer a better video or television? You also need to consider who is going to make the most use of it -- is it an adult or kids?

Paragon Mobile Entertainment System marketing manager Lin In Ho gives the following tips on car entertainment systems on
www.otomotifnet.com First, check out offers within your budget from different suppliers. Check and compare the features, price and performance of each product. Second, go to specialist stores or official agents to check products. You might have to pay more at such a place, but they usually come with a guaranteed quality. Third, choose a reputable installer. And four, make sure you get a warrantee, which is usually for 12 months for electronic equipment.

You will probably find the price range is limitless, but a beginner should start with something affordable. The simplest and most affordable system is a portable system that comes with a small monitor. It is very easy to install as it is attached between the front seats or behind the headrest of a front seat. This system uses 12 volts of power and is considered sufficient by most people. The price plus installment ranges from Rp 3 million to Rp 8 million.

There is also the fixed system, that is, non-portable. Although proper installation is necessary, there is always room for improvisation. The monitor can be put in the car ceiling, dashboard, console box or even on the back of the sun visor.

Car entertainment not only offers film options such as VCD and DVD but also can access TV programs with an additional antenna, songs from MP3 player and karaoke. Kids can also take their PlayStation and Nintendo along. For this kind of entertainment system, between Rp 4 million and Rp 18 million is needed.

The highest level is the multimedia station. With this system, you can insert a DVD player in the in-dash player, turn on the MP3 Audio, manage the DVD charger and other functions in the dashboard. You can also put together and mix different components for the best results. This system also makes it possible for passenger to enjoy separate entertainment while on the road. For example, one passenger can play games while others listen to music or karaoke. Therefore, more than one monitor needs to be installed here. As for price, this is wide ranging and is according to taste.