A car without music systems is like Facebook without notifications. Isn’t it? These days modern cars come with a decent stereo system. Still, it seems like you want to upgrade the existing audio system in your car.
While upgrading the car stereo, the speaker is a part that you cannot overlook. The best speakers for the car are what bring life back into the music. Fact is that car speaker makes the music audible to your ears.
However, car speakers come at nearly every size, shape, and type. Alongside this, the audio electronics industry is full of countless brands where everyone promises the best audio experience. It can sometimes be challenging to determine which one to choose.
So, we thought to improve your experience with the best car speakers. We look into the companies that produce rich and bright lows, mids, and highs. From all those brands, here we’ve compiled a list of 9 best car audio speakers.
We’ll also share some essential things, including a buyer’s guide, to make an informed decision. Take a look at all these options to make a fancy upgrade before your next trip.
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9 Best Speakers for Car with Amazing Sound
Before making a list, we take a comprehensive look at all the best speakers on the market. Finally, here we’ll review our nine best speakers for the car. Each of them may have different features, but what you’ll get in common is the excellent audible experience. Let’s get started!
1. JBL GTO629 Premium 6.5-Inch Co-Axial Speaker
As the leading audio brand on the market, JBL continues to deliver top-class speakers. The JBL GTO629 is a great sounding speaker that will boost your driving experience.
This premium 6.5-inch co-axial speaker provides powerful yet clear sound. The head-unit can deliver up to 180W of power. It features carbon-injected cone material along with Patented plus One woofer-cone technology.
These carbon-injected cones are larger than others in its class. It radiates more air and generates more bass. Moreover, its patented UniPivot tweeter makes the sound audible to your ears.
However, its dual-level tweeter volume adjustment makes it more worthy than previous speakers. You can even adjust it to match your taste. With 3-ohm voice coils, JBL GTO629 is designed for factory speaker’s replacement with thin wires.
Above all, it’s carbon-composite, non-magnetic frames maintain integrity even in severe conditions. It helps to remove harmful frequencies that are above the 12dB/octave crossover filter.
Pros
- Patented plus-one woofer-cone technology
- Impressive bass
- Long-lasting
- Durable construction
- Vented magnet assemblies
- Powerful yet clear sound
Cons
- It could be tough to mount grille
Final Verdict
In general, the speaker will make the most of every watt your car stereo can provide. It not only offers a great bass sound but also ensures clarity.2. Rockford Fosgate R165X3 6.5″ Car Audio Coaxial Speakers
Up next? We have a 3-way car audio coaxial speakers from Rockford Fosgate. The Rockford Fosgate R165X3 speakers are well-known for its good sound-quality and impressive performance. Considering the price, the R165X3 is less expensive than most other OEM replacements. It is designed to be a great factory replacement option. These 6.5″ coaxial speakers are highly-responsive, and the drivers perform really well.
Pros
- Solid design
- Four speaker set
- Maximum power handling
- Rubber surrounds
- Provides distortion-free, full-range sound
- Affordable
Cons
- May not be that durable
Final Verdict
Overall, the Rockford Fosgate speakers offer excellent bass quality.
3. JBL GTO609C Premium 6.5-Inch Component Speaker System
Once again, we have a great addition speaker system from JBL. Though you could adorn your car with JBL’s top-line speakers, the GTO609 will bring you most than others. The JBL GTO609C is an all-round car speaker for bass sound.
The JBL GTO609 is designed to handle up to 270W with large voice coils. It ensures increased power handling. These speakers include a larger than average woofer that allows regulating more air.
It has carbon-injected cones that are stiffer and lighter than polypropylene counterparts. This helps to offer better bass handling and response. Moreover, the speaker comes with the most flexible soft-done tweeters.
The tweeter features I-mount systems. It allows you to flush or surface mount your component tweeters. Also, they have dual-level adjustments to adjust the volume and tweeter levels.
Nonetheless, these three-ohm speakers are suitable for cars with tiny wires. The speakers will allow personalizing the sound according to your listening preference.
Pros
- Incredible sound
- Notable bass
- Solid build quality
- The best in its class
- Flexible tweeter placement
Cons
- Difficult to install grille
Final Verdict
The JBL GTO609C offers notable frequency response, great bass, and overall unmatchable sound. At this price point, it is difficult to beat the JBL609C speakers.
4. Kenwood KFC-1666R Road Series Car Speakers
Next on our list, we have the Kenwood KFC-1666R 6.5″ Road Series car speakers. It is a game-changer for audiophiles and those who need an immersive in-car listening experience.
First, these 2-way coaxial speakers deliver a powerful punch with 300W peak power and wide frequency response. So, you will have crystal-clear highs, deep lows, and rich bass.
Besides, the 4-ohm impedance guarantees even power distribution. Here, the heavy-duty magnet design and shallow depth make installation a breeze for you or your kids.
Moreover, its silk dome tweeters are coaxially mounted and durably made. They aim to deliver a smooth yet wide response. Then, the speakers run at 4-ohm impedance. They have a power range between 15W and 60W, along with 100W peak power.
Pros
- Incredible 300W peak power and 4-ohm impedance.
- Accurate 40Hz-22kHz range for sound reproduction
- The heavy-duty magnet design is durable for a long-run
- Lower tweeter height, which is easy to install.
- Balanced sound provides clear and detailed highs.
Cons
- RMS power rating might be lower.
Final Verdict
Overall, Kenwood’s is keeping its reputation for quality and innovation with this speaker. It can be your reliable and stylish addition to any car audio system.
5. Pyle 4” x 6” Three-Way Sound Speaker System
Pyle 3-way speaker system doesn’t just sound great – they look great, as well. It’s a feast for your eyes and ears if you own the Pyle 3-way speakers. The speakers are an excellent replacement for your car’s factory speakers.
Firstly, the woofer features an impressive blue poly injection cone. It offers a lot of stiffness without extra weight. The speaker features a 1-inch ASV voice coil that is prepared for high temperature and wattage situations.
These 4-ohm component speakers will compensate your car’s short wire if any. It delivers the most with a maximum output power of 240W. Also, it features a one-inch neodymium film dome midrange and ¾” piezo tweeter.
This combination allows the speaker to generate smoother, brighter, and louder sounds. There is a non-fatiguing butyl rubber surround to keep the speaker secure. It also extends the life of the speakers.
Pros
- Eye-catching design
- Better power output
- Provides smooth, loud and clear sound
- Durable construction
- Affordable price
- Comes in a range of sizes
Cons
- Sound quality is not as superior as others in the list
Final Verdict
The Pyle speakers comprise an ideal combination of materials to offer a wide frequency range. Also, they are an affordable option to upgrade your car’s factory stereo.6. BOSS Audio Systems CH6530 Car Speakers
BOSS car speakers are well-known for their budget-oriented audio systems. The BOSS Audio Systems CH6530 is not an exception. This good-looking sound speaker provides clear, crisp, and loud sound.
Pros
- Sturdy and durable cone material
- Long-lasting speakers
- Offers a clear sound
- Rubber surroundings
- Comes in a range of outputs
- Cost-effective
Cons
- No high-end sounds
Final Verdict
The BOSS Audio CH6530 is a great pair that comes at an affordable price.7. JVC CS-J620 300W 6.5″ CS Series 2-Way Coaxial Car Speakers
Coming in our next option is the JVC CS-J620 2-way coaxial car speakers. The JVC CS-J620 could be an excellent upgrade for your factory speakers. It is excellent for producing great music with low distortion.
Pros
- Great power handling
- Heat-resistant voice coils
- Better sensitivity
- Easy to mount
- Smooth mid-range and low-ends
- Durable construction
- Less-expensive
Cons
- Not suitable for high-end volume
Final Verdict
If you are searching for a great-sounding yet easy mounting speakers, the JVC CS-J620 may be perfect for you.
8. CT Sounds Meso 6.5” 3-Way Component Speaker Set
Next up comes the CT Sounds Meso 6.5” 3-Way Component Speaker Set on our list! The sweet speaker is considered a powerhouse for bass freaks!
Speaking of specs, this 3-way system comprises 6.5” woofers for smooth output. Plus 3.5” midrange drivers and 25mm silk-dome tweeters that deliver a sonic experience unparalleled!
But that’s not the end! It contains a neodymium motor assembly so that you get efficient power handling on the same time the silk-dome tweeters offer crystal-clear highs.
Above all, it has 250W RMS and 500W max power handling capability per set. So you can guess these speakers can effortlessly fill any large space with rich sound.
Now, if you are cruising down the highway or parked at a car show, the CT Sounds Meso 6.5” set will have you turning heads and dropping jaws.
Pros
- High volume levels and minimal distortion.
- Built to withstand harsh environments.
- Brushed aluminum tweeter housing
- High-quality components
- Reasonable price point.
- Better frequency response
Cons
- Although powerful, it might not be that sensitive speaker
- Subjective sound preferences compatible with certain people
Final Verdict
Overall, our tests proved that the CT Sounds Meso 6.5” 3-Way Component Speaker Set will be extremely preferable by people who love deep bass and sonic effects in sound.
9. Rockford Fosgate R165X3 Prime 6.5″ Coaxial Speaker
At the end of the list, we got another Rockford Fosgate R165X3 speakers. But, this one is much affordable and offers less power handling than the previous one. It could be an excellent factory speaker upgrade at this price range.
The R165X3 can outperform other OEM replacement. It may lack in power than other expensive car speakers. But the quality you’ll get is unparalleled. These full-range speakers can produce all audio frequencies without needing subwoofers.
Moreover, it features a vacuum polypropylene cone with a silk dome tweeter and midrange. The polypropylene cone has lower distortions and generates smoother high frequency. It also ensures a clear and crisp sound quality.
The speaker also comes with grilles and mounting hardware for easy installation. Its rubber surround makes the speaker capable of withstanding anything.
Pros
- Quite affordable
- Quality component
- Silk dome tweeter and midrange for better frequency
- Smoother high frequency
- Lower distortion
- Rubber surround
Cons
- Less power handling
- Not good bass response
Final Verdict
On the whole, it offers a significant upgrade over most factory speakers. It is impossible to beat these speakers for the price.
Different Car Speaker System
Buying the best speakers for a car can be complicated if you are not familiar with different types. Basically, car speakers can be divided into two main categories. They are-
- Component speakers
- Full-rage (coaxial) speakers
Component Speaker System
Component speaker systems are equipped with separate components, including subwoofers, woofers, and tweeters. All these components are joined with crossovers to provide better sound quality.
Here the crossovers ensure that low frequency goes to the woofers and high frequencies to the tweeters. The component sound system offers a crisper sound. This is quite expensive than the full-range speaker system. Also, component systems are challenging to install.
Full-Range (coaxial) Speaker System
In a full-range system, the components like woofers and tweeters are combined together. These systems are quite affordable. You’ll get a decent sound-quality even at a lower price.
Moreover, a full-range speaker system is easier to install. The drawback is that you cannot customize it. Overall, the full-range speaker system is best for its simpler installation process.
What Type of Car Speakers Do You Need?
Different speaker system uses different drivers to convert electrical energy into sound waves. Depending on the drivers they use, both categories can be classified into the following types:
- Subwoofers
- Woofers
- Tweeters
The car speakers are widely familiar with the above names. Let’s explain each type:
Subwoofers
Subwoofers are the larger speakers that you may get into the car’s stereo system. The size of subwoofers typically varies from 10″ to 15″. Subwoofers deal with the very low sound frequencies in the car’s music.
When you hear the bass drum and bass notes very loud, you possibly hear a subwoofer. Most subwoofers are connected to an aftermarket system instead of the stock car audio system.
Woofers
Woofers are the most common types of speakers seen in the car. These are medium-sized speakers available in the car sound system. Woofers typically range from 3.5″ to 7.5″ in size. However, woofers handle the mid-range frequencies in your car.
Depending on the size, they can handle bass frequencies. For example, the larger woofer cone handles bass frequencies better and produces the best sound. Conversely, the smaller woofer cone can deal with frequencies closer to the high end.
Tweeters
Tweeters come at a tiny size that is under 1.5″ in size. But, it can handle the high-end frequencies in the car music. They are typically mounted in the middle of the woofer in most full-range speakers.
In the component speakers, tweeters are installed high in the door panel. Moreover, tweeter drivers can be specialized further for ultra-high-frequency sounds.
Best Speakers for Car Buying Guide
Now that you’ve learned about our nine best car speakers. We’ve you’ve shortlisted a few of them as your favorite. Still, you may have a few more questions in mind. And we decided to clear all your dilemma.
Here we will talk about a few things that you should consider while buying car speakers. Whether you are upgrading existing speakers or investing in an upgraded one, check the following factors.
Power Handling
First and foremost, you have to consider that how much power the speakers can handle. It denotes the number of watts that can pump through the car speakers. The speakers should handle the power that the head unit transmits.
Only then can you achieve a great sound. If the speaker is not capable of handling the power the head unit transmits, it will distort. It means the power transmitted from the head unit should be compatible with the speakers.
So, it is essential to check the power specs if you are sticking with the stock head unit. Elsewise, while replacing the stock head unit, make sure to learn about the head unit’s power.
Build-Quality
The quality of the speaker components has an intense effect on sound quality. It also determines the performance and durability of car speakers. Why does quality matter?
During the summer, when your car is closed, the heat level is too high inside the car. Similarly, it gets extremely cold during the winter. The intense temperature can cause havoc on the speakers.
That’s why it is essential to have the best quality of your car speakers. To get the durable speakers, look into the models that feature a woofer cone. Also, make sure it has rubber surroundings with suitable mounting hardware.
- For woofers and subwoofers, a rigid and lightweight cone material offers the best sound quality and durability. Metal fiber, paper, and polypropylene will also do a great job as long as they have the properties mentioned above.
- For tweeters, it varies somewhat widely. The high-end models may use a hard material such as graphite or a soft one like silk.
Speaker Size
Earlier, we mentioned car speakers come at different sizes. Before investing in a new one, it is essential to measure your factory speakers. So you can determine the accurate speaker size.
The speakers should be compatible with the power output in your car’s audio system. Only then can it deliver the best sound quality. The most common speaker size is around 6.5″. You might consider buying a 4×5 for a smaller dash speaker. Also, you might find a 5.25″ size for a back door speaker.
Sensitivity
Sensitivity is one of the most crucial factors in any sound system. The sensitivity refers to the amount of power the speaker requires to generate sound at a specified volume. It is measured in decibels.
Usually, speakers with high sensitivity require less power. If you are replacing a few stock components on the stereo system, you’ll need high sensitivity. Getting high sensitivity can be an advantage as they are easy to drive.
However, if you are replacing all the stock components, you may go with low sensitivity. The speakers with 90dB ratings will appropriately work better.
Car Acoustic
Are you one among those who like to listen to a specific type of music while driving? If so, you can look at particular features. The hip hop lover might consider the need for some extra bass. Also, if you are a rock music lover, you might choose higher tones.
However, if you are not fond of any particular genre, you can choose a balanced subwoofer. While driving, you shouldn’t hear a heavy bass sound. It can be distracting, so better you search for sound quality over a throbbing bass.
Additional Features
Apart from the features mentioned above, there may be some added features you’ll want to buy. Some speaker includes detachable tweeters. These are great for installing in tight spaces. Also, the user can rotate the speakers when needed.
Budget
Finally, setting a budget will help you get your desired speakers. The best speakers for a car can vary greatly. In our above list, we tried to include speakers for all budgets. There are low budget options for the one that costs more than hundreds. So, decide on your budget and choose accordingly.
How to Install a Car’s Speakers?
You can install a new one if you are not happy with the factory speakers in your car. Upgrading the existing factory speaker is not a difficult task. Here we’ll describe how to upgrade factory speakers and install a new one.
Before we start, note that all the vehicle requires a different disassembly process. You cannot access the factory speaker with a single method.
Tools You’ll Need
- Crimping tools
- Allen wrenches
- Electrical tape
- File
- Drill with bits
- Screwdriver (flat-head)
- Phillips screwdriver
- Panel popper
- Socket wrench
- Torx drivers and bits
- Wirecutter
- Soldering iron and solder
Accessing Factory Speakers
Front Dash Speakers
Front dash speakers are relatively easy to access. If it is the rear windshield, you can access it by removing the speaker grille with a 90o screwdriver. Make sure you are not damaged or scratch the dash while removing the speaker grille. You may use a panel popper to remove the grille.
Door Speakers
As the name implies, doo speakers locate at the door panel. Depending on the car, it could be easy or tricky to remove. Some car allows removing the speaker grilles from the outside of the door panel. You can use a panel popper or a flat head screwdriver to access the speakers.
In some cars, there are switches for your power doors and windows. You may have to remove some plugs to remove the door panel safely.
Rear Deck Speakers
Usually, rear deck speakers are difficult to access. But, in some vehicles, you can remove it like dash speakers. Simply pop off the grille to access the screws. In some vehicles, you may have to remove the whole back seat and rear trim pieces. Or you can access them from your trunk.
Replace the Car Speakers
Disconnect the Battery
Disconnecting the battery will prevent any kind of short circuits while working. So, remove the negative terminal from your battery at first.
Remove the Factory Speaker
Follow the tips above to access your dash, door, or rear deck speakers. Simply unscrew the speaker, pull it out and unplug if any connector is behind it.
Install Your New Speaker
Check for any harness in your new speaker. If you find the harness, simply plug it into the new speaker’s terminal. Or, if you don’t find any harness, make sure you connect all the parts. Only a proper connection can send audio to the car speakers.
Test the Speaker
Before finally installing the new speaker, you can give it a quick test. So, you can know if it is working or not. You have to do it before reassembling your dash, door, or rear deck.
Secure Your Speaker
After testing, if the speaker is working fine, then finally, you can secure it. It should fit perfectly in your original speaker’s housing. You may have to hold it in place while securing it into place.
If You Are Installing A Component Set…
Perhaps, you have to install a crossover. If you want to mount a separate tweeter, find a location to mount it. The installation process comprises cutting and drilling into the door panel or A-pillar. The process is more custom. That is why coaxial replacements are suggested for OE replacement speaker upgrades.
FAQs
This is actually a bit difficult to answer. It depends on the number of drivers installed in the speaker. The higher the driver, the better sound quality you’ll have. The market has a range of options available that offer better sound quality. They are; JL Audio C2-650X, Pyle speakers, JBL GTO Series, BOSS Audio Chaos, etc.
According to many car audio enthusiasts, JBL is one of the best brands of sound system for a car. They manage to be one of the top brands with consistent performance and positive feedbacks. Also, there are more brands—for example, Pioneer, Alpine, Polk Audio, BOSS Audio, etc.
The general rule for speakers with bass, the larger the speaker, the deeper the bass. There are several models manufactured with bass enhancement. They tend to deliver distortion-free bass. A few of them are; JBL GTO629, Pioneer TS-M800PRO, Rockford Fosgate R165X3, Rockville RM84PRO, etc.
The 6.5 speakers are considered as the loudest speakers for a car. A decent pair of 6.5 car speakers can take your music from drab to dramatic. They have a reasonably high power rating. And, the best part of these speakers is their exceptional sound quality. There are hundreds of 6.5 speakers on the market, such as; Pioneer TS-A1686R, JBL GTO609C, Kicker 43DSC6504, etc.
The loudest speaker is what delivers incredibly loud and powerful sound performance. These speakers allow them to make more bass and move more air. Most of them come with pivoted tweeters that are mounted low. Moreover, loudest speakers are of low impedance. So they allow making the most out of every watt.
There is a range of well-known brands that manufacture car speakers. They are; JBL, Rockford, Pioneer, Kicker, BOSS Audio, etc.
Absolutely, if you upgrade factory car speakers, they’ll sound better. But, the issue is that aftermarket speakers have lower sensitivity than OEM speakers. So, they may not be as loud, but it will boost the sound quality dramatically. It is better to amplify the factory speakers before upgrading them.
Yes. Sony car speakers offer both two-way and coaxial three-way sound. They come in a range of sizes. Also, Sony car speakers meet the requirement of components like tweeters and subwoofers.
After analyzing countless models, we found JBL GTO609C 6.5″ components speakers as the best. They provide the best audio quality. With the separate tweeters and woofers, they produce high-end sounds and clear depth bass.
Conclusion
All things considered, it is worth to upgrade car speakers in the long run. It not only improve the sound but also enhance the overall performance of your car’s stereo system. Now that you’ve checked our best speakers for car.
We can confidently state that these will make a significant upgrade to your stock speaker. They aren’t out of reach for most in terms of price. So, you can easily find a new set for your vehicle.