A client from Gilbert, Arizona, contacted Handcrafted to get some help with the audio system on his 2006 Yamaha SX230 jet boat. He had already purchased a good amount of equipment and started the installation himself. After realizing that he was not going to be able to meet his goals for the install, he asked us for some help. We scheduled a time for him to drop off the boat so we could finish his Yamaha SX230 audio system.
Wiring and Service Connections
We started the installation by removing the existing audio wiring in the boat. We ran new power wiring from the battery, and new speaker wiring throughout the boat to ensure reliability. Next, we created a plastic amp rack to hold the quartet of amplifiers. The customer already had three Planet Audio amplifiers, and we added a Rockford Fosgate R750-1D for the subwoofers. We used an Audison Connection distribution block to ensure reliable power delivery to each amp.
The wakeboard tower on the boat is home to three pairs of tower speaker enclosures. We ran dedicated wires to each speaker pod. To facilitate the ease of serviceability, we installed a waterproof Deutsch Electrical quick-connect on the port side of the boat. We ran all the wiring within the tower tubing after this point. On the starboard side, added another Deutsch Electrical quick-connect for the navigation light on the top of the tower.
Speaker and Subwoofer Installation
The client had purchased three additional sets of Polk Audio speakers for the boat. We fixed a few of the mounting locations to ensure each speaker was solid. We used stainless steel nuts and bolts to mount the speakers so there is no chance of water damage.
There are two Pioneer subwoofers in the system. The design of these subs allow them to work in an infinite baffle application, so they do not require a custom enclosure. We mounted the subwoofers to the left of the port-side cockpit seat. The three sets of Polk speakers provide sound inside the boat.
System Configuration
The client had a Kenwood mechless radio in the boat. We used Audison Connection interconnects to feed signal from it to the amps. To finalize the installation, we set the sensitivity controls on the amps using our oscilloscope for maximum performance and reliability.
Yamaha SX230 Audio System Delivery
Once we completed the installation, the client returned to Handcrafted in Chandler, AZ, to check out the system. He loved our craftsmanship and attention to detail. The system sounded great, and he was excited to get the boat out on the water. If you are looking for an entertainment system for your boat, drop into Handcrafted or e-mail us here.
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