* Head Unit: A central control unit (the radio) handles source selection (radio, cassette, possibly a CD player depending on the specific option package), equalization settings (bass, treble, possibly balance and fader), and volume control. This unit sends audio signals to the amplifier.
* Amplifier: This component is the powerhouse. It takes the relatively weak audio signals from the head unit and boosts them to a level strong enough to drive the speakers. In a Mach system, this was likely a multi-channel amplifier, meaning separate channels for the front left, front right, rear left, and rear right speakers, and potentially a dedicated subwoofer channel (depending on the specific Mach system).
* Speakers: The system uses several speakers located throughout the car. Typically, these included:
* Front Door Speakers: These are usually the most prominent speakers, often larger and more powerful than the rear speakers.
* Rear Deck Speakers: (sometimes in the rear quarter panels) Provide additional sound staging.
* Subwoofer (optional): A larger speaker designed to reproduce low-frequency sounds (bass). This was often placed in the trunk or rear deck depending on the model and optional equipment.
* Signal Processing: While not extremely sophisticated by today's standards, the Mach system likely incorporated some basic signal processing, such as equalization, to adjust the frequency balance of the audio output.
* Wiring: A complex network of wires connects all the components together, carrying the audio signals and power.
In short: The Mach system took audio input, processed it (slightly), amplified it, and then sent it to the speakers for playback. It was a relatively straightforward, analog system—a significant step up from basic factory systems of the time but lacking the digital processing and sophisticated features found in modern car audio systems. Remember that specifics could vary slightly depending on the exact year and options chosen for the 1998 Mustang.
