How to Install UTV Audio in 5 Easy Steps

How to Install UTV Audio in 5 Easy Steps

Ready to lift your off-road experience with an amazing sound system? UTV audio installation can transform your rides, making them more enjoyable with your favorite tunes blasting through the trails. This guide will simplify the process of UTV audio installation in just five easy steps.

Quick Summary:

1. Planning Your Installation
2. Selecting Your Components
3. Installing the Audio System
4. Testing and Tuning Your System
5. Enjoying Your Upgraded Ride!

Installing a sound system on your UTV isn't just about adding speakers; it's about creating an immersive audio experience that can withstand tough terrains and extreme weather conditions. With the right planning and components like SiriusXM® Radio and Ride Command™ integration, you can enjoy uninterrupted music and seamless communication during your trips.

I’m Robert Resz, the proud owner of Rad UTV Parts. With years of off-roading experience and a passion for quality UTV accessories, I aim to provide reliable and durable solutions for UTV audio installation. My expertise ensures you get the best performance from your audio setup, enhancing every trail ride.

Let’s dive into the first step: Planning Your Installation.

When it comes to UTV audio installation, picking the right components is crucial. You need a system that can handle the rugged conditions of off-roading while delivering high-quality sound. Here’s what you need to know to make the best choice.

UTV Stereo and Audio Systems

A great place to start is by exploring the available UTV Stereo options. These systems are specifically designed to endure the bumps, dust, and moisture that come with off-road trips. Unlike regular car audio systems, UTV stereos are built to be more durable and water-resistant.

Marine Industry Influence

The marine industry has made significant contributions to UTV audio systems. Marine audio components are engineered to withstand harsh environments, making them perfect for UTVs. Many brands have leveraged their marine audio expertise to create robust and reliable UTV audio systems.

Selecting the Right System

When choosing your UTV audio system, consider factors like durability, sound quality, and ease of installation. Look for components that are specifically designed for off-road use and have positive reviews from other UTV enthusiasts.

Pro Tip: Always check if the components are compatible with your UTV model. Some systems are designed for specific brands like Can-Am or Polaris, so make sure to choose accordingly.

With your audio system selected, you’re ready to move on to the next step: Planning Your Installation.

Step 1: Planning Your Installation

Before diving into your UTV audio installation, plan your setup carefully. This planning phase will save you time and headaches later. Here’s what you need to focus on:

Speaker Placement

Proper speaker placement is critical for achieving the best sound quality. In our project with the 2016 Arctic Cat Wildcat Sport, we used four M2 Wake pods. These were mounted on a rear rack behind the driver and passenger seats.

Key Points:

• Rear Rack: Consider using a rear rack to mount your speakers. This keeps them lifted and away from mud and water.
• Roll Bar Mounts: If a rear rack isn't an option, roll bar mounts are a viable alternative. They provide flexibility in positioning.
• Subwoofers: Place subwoofers in the cargo area for optimal bass. Custom-molded boxes can fit snugly against the sides, as we did with our Metro Sound custom boxes.

Power Routing

Routing power efficiently and safely is crucial for a reliable audio system. Here's how we managed it:

Steps:

1. Remove Seats and Bed: Start by removing the front seats and bed to access the areas where you'll route your power cables.
2. Stereo Wire Kit: Use a stereo wire kit that includes a power cable with an in-line fuse, ground, and speaker cables. This ensures all components get the necessary power safely.
3. Cable Routing: Route the cables away from moving parts and the engine to prevent damage and interference.

Equipment Placement

Strategic equipment placement ensures your system is both functional and protected from the elements.

Considerations:

• Amplifiers: Position amplifiers in a central location, such as the middle of the cargo bed. This makes wiring more straightforward and keeps the amps protected.
• Head Unit: The Punch head unit can be mounted on the dashboard or a custom console. Ensure it's easily accessible for control but protected from direct exposure to dust and water.
• Subwoofer Boxes: Custom subwoofer boxes should be fitted tightly against the sides of the cargo bed to maximize space and protect the subs.

Example Setup: 2016 Arctic Cat Wildcat Sport

In our setup, we used a $499 rear rack to hold the four M2 Wake pods. The subwoofers were placed in custom-molded boxes in the cargo area with three amplifiers in the center. This setup not only optimized space but also ensured each component was securely mounted and protected.

Pro Tip: Always double-check the compatibility of your components with your UTV model. This ensures a hassle-free installation and optimal performance.

With your plan in place, you're ready to move on to the next step: Selecting Your Components.

Step 2: Selecting Your Components

Choosing the right components is crucial for a successful UTV audio installation. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need and why each part is essential.

M2 Wake Pods

The M2 Wake pods are marine-grade speakers designed to withstand harsh conditions, making them perfect for UTVs. They provide clear, crisp sound even when you’re tearing through rough trails.

Key Features:

• Waterproof and Shockproof: Built to handle mud, water, and vibrations.
• Mounting Options: Can be mounted on a rear rack or roll bar, offering flexibility in placement.
• Cost: Approximately $280 for a set of two.

M2 Subwoofers

To get that deep bass, you’ll need powerful subwoofers. The M2 subwoofers are designed to deliver low frequencies that you can feel as much as hear.

Key Features:

• Robust Bass: Improves the overall sound experience with deep, resonant bass.
• Durability: Built to endure the same harsh conditions as the Wake pods.
• Cost: Around $250 each.

Punch Head Unit

The Punch head unit is the control center of your UTV audio system. It integrates all your audio sources and provides easy control over your setup.

Key Features:

• Versatile Inputs: Supports multiple audio sources, including Bluetooth, USB, and AUX.
• User-Friendly Interface: Easy to steer, even when you’re on the move.
• Cost: Approximately $289.

T500X16R Amplifiers

To power your subwoofers, you’ll need robust amplifiers like the T500X16R. These amplifiers ensure that your subwoofers get the power they need to perform optimally.

Key Features:

• High Power Output: Delivers the necessary wattage for your subwoofers.
• Compact Design: Fits easily into the limited space of a UTV.
• Cost: Around $411 each.

T400X4AD Amplifier

For the M2 Wake pods, the T400X4AD amplifier is a great choice. It provides ample power to ensure your speakers sound their best.

Key Features:

• Efficient Power Distribution: Ensures each speaker receives the right amount of power.
• Durable Build: Designed to withstand the rigors of off-road use.
• Cost: Approximately $467.

Subwoofer Box

A custom subwoofer box is essential for housing your subwoofers securely. It also helps to optimize the sound quality by providing the right acoustic environment.

Key Features:

• Custom Fit: Designed to fit snugly in your UTV’s cargo area.
• Durable Material: Built to last and protect your subwoofers from damage.
• Cost: Around $400 for a custom box.

Example Setup: 2016 Arctic Cat Wildcat Sport

In our project, we used four M2 Wake pods mounted on a $499 rear rack, two M2 subwoofers in custom-molded boxes, and three amplifiers (two T500X16R for the subs and one T400X4AD for the pods). This setup ensured optimal sound quality and durability.

Pro Tip: Always verify the compatibility of your components with your specific UTV model to avoid any installation issues.

With your components selected, you’re ready to move on to the next step: Installing the Audio System.

Step 3: Installing the Audio System

Now that you have all the right components, it's time to dive into the installation process. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth and successful UTV audio installation.

Mounting Speakers

1. Rear Rack Installation:

   • If you're using a rear rack, start by mounting your M2 Wake pods. These pods can be easily attached using the existing 1 1/2-inch dimple-die holes.
   • Pro Tip: Ensure the speaker mounts are secure to handle the vibrations and bumps of off-road riding.

2. Subwoofer Placement:

   • For subwoofers, custom-molded boxes are ideal. In our example with the 2016 Arctic Cat Wildcat Sport, we removed the cargo bed to fit these boxes snugly on each side.
   • Pro Tip: Position the subwoofers as far apart as possible to improve stereo separation and bass response.

Wiring

1. Routing Power Cables:

   • Remove both front seats to gain easy access for routing the power cables. This step ensures you have enough room to work and can keep the cables away from any moving parts or the engine.
   • Use a stereo wire kit that includes a power cable with an in-line fuse, ground cable, and speaker cables.

2. Connecting the Amplifiers:

   • Place the amplifiers in the center of the bed/cargo area. This central location helps in evenly distributing power and simplifying cable management.
   • Pro Tip: Label your cables to avoid confusion during the connection process.

3. Speaker Connections:

   • Connect the speaker wires from the M2 Wake pods and subwoofers to their respective amplifiers. Ensure that the connections are tight and secure to prevent any signal loss.

Connecting to Battery

1. Main Power Cable:

   • Route the main power cable from the amplifiers to the battery. Make sure to use a cable with an in-line fuse for safety.
   • Pro Tip: Follow the most direct route possible while avoiding any areas that generate heat or have moving parts.

2. Grounding:

   • Connect the ground cables from the amplifiers to a solid, unpainted metal surface on the UTV frame. This step is crucial for preventing electrical noise and ensuring system stability.

Power Cable Installation

1. Fuse Installation:

   • Install an in-line fuse close to the battery connection. This fuse acts as a safeguard against potential electrical faults.
   • Pro Tip: Use a fuse rated slightly above the total current draw of your system to ensure protection without unnecessary interruptions.

2. Final Connections:

   • Attach the power cable to the positive terminal of the battery and the ground cable to the negative terminal.
   • Ensure all connections are tight and secure before proceeding.

With everything mounted and wired, you're ready to power up your system and move on to the next step: Testing and Tuning Your System.

Step 4: Testing and Tuning Your System

After completing your UTV audio installation, it's crucial to test and fine-tune the system to ensure optimal performance. Follow these steps to get the best sound quality from your setup.

Sound Check

1. Initial Power-Up:

   • Turn on your UTV and power up the audio system. Check that all components, including the amplifiers, speakers, and subwoofers, are receiving power.
   • Pro Tip: Start with the volume low to prevent any sudden loud noises that could damage the speakers.

2. Component Testing:

   • Play a variety of music genres to test the full range of your audio system. Listen for clarity, balance, and any distortions.
   • Pro Tip: Use a test track with a wide frequency range to identify any weak spots in your setup.

Tuning

1. Adjusting Amplifier Settings:

   • Set the gain on your amplifiers to match the output levels of your head unit. This step is crucial for achieving a balanced sound.
   • Pro Tip: Start with the gain at its lowest setting and gradually increase it until you achieve the desired volume without distortion.

2. Equalizer Settings:

   • Use the equalizer settings on your head unit to fine-tune the sound. Adjust the bass, midrange, and treble to your liking.
   • Pro Tip: Boost the bass for a more powerful sound, but avoid overdoing it to prevent muddy audio quality.

3. Subwoofer Tuning:

   • Adjust the crossover settings on your subwoofers to ensure they only handle low-frequency sounds. This step helps in achieving a clean and powerful bass.
   • Pro Tip: Set the crossover frequency between 80Hz and 100Hz for optimal performance.

Optimal Power

1. Voltage Check:

   • Use a multimeter to check the voltage at the amplifiers. Ensure that the voltage is stable and within the operating range specified by the manufacturer.
   • Pro Tip: A stable voltage ensures consistent performance and prevents damage to the audio components.

2. Heat Management:

   • Check for any overheating issues, especially around the amplifiers and subwoofers. Make sure there is adequate ventilation.
   • Pro Tip: Use cooling fans or heat sinks if you notice any components getting too hot during operation.

3. Final Adjustments:

   • Make any final tweaks to the settings based on your listening experience. Ensure that the sound is balanced and that all components are working harmoniously.
   • Pro Tip: Take your UTV for a test ride to see how the audio system performs in real-world conditions. Make adjustments as needed.

With your system tested and tuned, you're now ready to enjoy high-quality audio on your UTV trips. Next, we'll address some common questions about UTV audio installation to help you get the most out of your setup.

Frequently Asked Questions about UTV Audio Installation

Can you put a radio in a side by side?

Absolutely! Installing a radio in a side-by-side UTV is not only possible but also quite popular. Many UTV owners opt for marine-grade head units and speakers due to their durability and resistance to water and dust. For instance, an all-in-one Bluetooth soundbar that's both waterproof and extremely loud is perfect for off-road trips.

How do marine audio components benefit UTV audio installations?

Marine audio components are designed to withstand harsh conditions, making them ideal for UTV audio installations. These components are built to resist water, dust, and extreme temperatures. Brands that offer marine-grade speakers and amplifiers provide excellent sound quality while enduring the rigors of off-road environments. Using marine audio components ensures your system remains functional and reliable, no matter the weather or terrain.

What are the best practices for routing power and speaker cables?

Routing power and speaker cables correctly is crucial for a successful UTV audio installation. Here are some best practices:

1. Separate Power and Signal Cables: To avoid interference, run power cables on one side of the UTV and signal (RCA) cables on the opposite side. This helps in reducing noise and maintaining sound quality.

2. Use Grommets and Sleeves: Protect cables from sharp edges and moving parts by using grommets and protective sleeves. This prevents wear and tear, reducing the risk of short circuits.

3. Secure Cables Properly: Use zip ties or cable clamps to secure cables along the frame of the UTV. This prevents cables from becoming loose and getting caught in suspension or drivetrain components.

4. Grounding: Ensure that all components are properly grounded to the chassis. A bad ground connection can lead to noise in the audio system and potential damage to the components.

5. Fuse Protection: Always use a fuse close to the battery connection. This protects your audio system from potential electrical faults that could cause damage or even fire.

Following these best practices will not only improve the performance of your UTV audio system but also ensure its longevity and safety.

Next, we'll conclude our guide by summarizing the key points and providing additional resources for further reading on UTV audio installations.

Conclusion

We've covered the essentials of UTV audio installation from planning and selecting components to installing and testing your system. By following these steps, you can ensure a smooth installation process and enjoy high-quality sound on your off-road trips.

At Rad UTV Parts, we specialize in providing top-notch UTV accessories and parts. Our commitment to quality and unbeatable prices ensures you get the best value for your investment. Whether you're looking for speakers, amplifiers, or complete audio systems, we've got you covered.

Ready to upgrade your UTV audio system? Explore our UTV audio collection and start building your dream setup today!

If you have any questions or need further assistance, don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help you every step of the way.

Happy trails!