10 Best Car Audio Speakers in 2023 (Review) - MusicCritic (2024)

Car Audio Speakers Buying Guide

There are many reasons why you might want to replace your stock speakers with aftermarket ones, but the most obvious is they sound so much better. If you've just bought a Honda or a Toyota, and you're purchasing car speakers for the first time, you might be overwhelmed with the amount of information out there. To make things easier, we've provided you with this buyer's guide. From crossovers to the difference in speaker size, we'll cover everything you need to know. By the end of it, you'll be ready to make a purchase.

What to Look for in Car Audio Speakers

The most important factor to remember when buying a car speaker is whether your amplifier is compatible with it in terms of power handling. It's also important to understand how the channels of your amplifier operate. For example, some amps will have impedance options that restrict the power. So, check what impedance your amp is compatible with before choosing your new aftermarket speakers. Once you know this, you can focus on products with the same impedance and create the perfect sound stage.

Once you've worked out your amp's specs, consider sizes. Unless you want to modify your car, you'll want to choose a set you can mount into the space where the stock speakers are. Check the size of your current devices, then choose replacements of the same size. 6 x 9 is one of the most common sizes.

Think about your desired sound quality. Many of us will find that a standard, two-way system with a woofer and a tweeter will provide the best results, as it should deliver full-range, balanced sound.

Some people, however, may prefer a subwoofer setup, as this will give you powerful bass. If this is the case, you can find a three-way option that includes a fairly reasonable subwoofer, or, if your amplifier can support it, get a separate subwoofer altogether. If the amp is unequipped to support a sub, you could invest in a mono-block amp as a dedicated subwoofer power supply.

You might have noticed that we've included a component speaker option in our reviews. This was to demonstrate another audio setup option. It places tweeters at a preferable level for directional audio dispersion aimed at the driver and passengers' ears.

This type of speaker creates a much improved sound quality that audiophiles will enjoy. It gives more of a sense of surround sound. It also adds extra dimensions to the sound, providing a more dynamic and authentic sound, enhancing the music you're listening to. Some would compare it to the sound you'd get in a recording studio - it's simply that good. Of course, choosing component speakers means you'll need to pay more than you would for coaxials, but the benefits are evident. If you're not put off by higher prices, and you want the best quality audio, we think a component speaker is a good option.

In cars, our radio often has to compete with all sorts of driving conditions; the sound of traffic, wheels crunching against the ground, and the purr of the engine. Car speakers are typically mounted into doors or other parts of the car's interior. They will have an enclosure around them, which can impact the speaker's sound quality. If you want to avoid rattling, check that the enclosures and surrounds are made from high-grade materials.

It's not all about the complexity of the sound - durability and strength are important things to look out for, too. You don't want to replace your speakers after only a few years of use. Therefore, look out for a sturdy build quality and durable components built to last. Consider the cases or enclosures of the device, as well as the speaker grilles.

Most brands offer a warranty. So if there are any issues with your new product, all you have to do is call their number or send them an email, and they should fix the problem. If there are a number of problems or the issue can't be easily fixed, they'll usually replace the speaker. (Keep in mind that they may not if you were the one to cause the damage.)

If you want reliability, we recommend choosing products made by well-known manufacturers, like JBL, Kicker, or Pioneer, as you'll be more likely to get a durable, long-lasting product.

What is the Best Way to Install Car Audio Speakers?

We recommend you go to a mechanic or engineers to get the speakers installed. These professionals can swiftly and correctly fit your new speakers in your car for long-lasting performance.

If you don't want to spend the money on a mechanic, you could also look online for a guide on how to do it yourself. As long as you're not a stranger to DIY, you can do it easily without needing a lot of tools. You simply need to remove the old speakers, wire in the new ones, and mount them in the gap left by the old ones. That's it.

What Car Audio Speakers are Best for my Car?

This is a tricky question to answer, depending on several factors. First, you need to consider the car you have and its specification. You'll also need to consider what amp your vehicle has. Next, think about the type of music you enjoy listening to. Then, we need to know what power you want and how loud you like to play music. Fortunately, you're sure to find a product on our list that will cater to your needs (and price point!)

If none of the items on our list meet your needs, we recommend looking at the top manufacturer's websites to see if you can find one with the right specifications. However, all the products on our list are made by reputable and reliable brands and would make great additions to all car stereos, so we suggest you focus on these manufacturers. Others include Boss Audio Systems, Infinity, Kevlar Audio, and Polk Audio.

From today's reviews, the best speaker in terms of performance and audio quality is the four-way TS-A6886R set from Pioneer's most popular range. They serve up the best sound of the bunch. Their oval shape needn't put you off, as it only enhances the audio quality. Pioneer also makes the same speaker in a traditional circular shape as well.

The best in terms of value for money is the speaker made by Kenwood. It is a fantastic, three-way set with crisp trebles that produce optimum vocal clarity.

If budget is of key concern, we recommend you order the JBL GT7-6 kit. These speakers provide decent two-way audio that is well balanced and widely dispersed thanks to its Plus One technology.

You can also shop for speakers for all types of vehicles, from boats and motorcycles to your SUV, truck, or jeep.

Conclusion

Updating your car's speakers is never a bad decision. Unfortunately, most vehicle manufacturers install stock systems that don't deliver the same quality as an affordable upgrade can offer. You'll notice a marked improvement if you replace these stock speakers with one of the products on our list.

Remember, the amplifier will also have an impact on sound quality. Consider upgrading your amp at the same time as the speakers. That way, you'll also have complete freedom when choosing speakers, as you won't need to worry about finding a set compatible with the stock amp inside your car.

For all the audiophiles out there, we suggest the four-way system. It delivers the widest frequency range, meaning you get the fullest, most detailed sound quality. If your budget doesn't stretch to a four-way system, all the three-way speakers on our list will do a decent job. The best two-way option is the component speakers with their flexible mounting capabilities that optimize the tweeter position. This feature can help to enhance the audio quality.

That's it. We've provided you with ten awesome products and a very useful buyer's guide. You're now ready to go out and buy some new speakers for your car.

Expert Tip

If you want to beef up your bass levels and rattle the windows, consider adding a dedicated subwoofer to your setup. There's no need to purchase a hugely powerful one that will make the ground rumble as you drive. Many subs out there focus on clarity above volume, and they won't set you back too many dollars either. Adding a sub to your sound system will simply increase depth, which is something that rap, electronic, and techno fans will certainly appreciate.

Did you Know?

If you're unsure of your amplifier's specs or have an older car, it might be worth finding a new amplifier and installing a sound system from scratch.