Best Car Speakers, Comparison, Buying Guide and Reviews

Comparison, Buying Guide and Reviews - A Thorough Examination Of The Best Car Speakers On The Market, As an automobile owner, you will definitely want to turn your car or truck into your own little paradise. Your car should be clean and comfortable. At the same time, you will want to begin transforming your car into a comprehensive entertainment system. This will give you the ability to enjoy your favorite music anywhere and everywhere you go.

When you are asked, what are or what is the best car speakers, Model or brand, what will be your reply? I will be listing below, the best car speakers for 2017.

This list of best speakers is gathered from the most sought after models purchased on Amazon, ebay and other world biggest e-commerce websites online. Here is the major test we put these speakers through, before selecting them as the best.

1. Overall Rating from customers.
2. Audio Performance/Sound.
3. Power Handling.
4. Speaker Design Options
5. Help and Support provided after purchase.
6. Availability of Speaker sizes.
7. Warranty

Here are the handpicked 10 best car speakers.

• Pioneer TS-A6996R A-Series 6″ X 9″ 650W 5-Way Speakers

• JBL GTO939 Premium 6 x 9 Inches Co-Axial Speaker

• PIONEER TS-D6902R 2 WAY 6X9 360W CAR SPEAKERS

• Alpine Sps-619 6-Inch X 9-Inch 3 Way Pair of Coaxial Car Speakers

• Polk Audio DB691 6-by-9-Inch 3-Way Speakers

• Kenwood KFC-6995PS 125W 6″ x 9″ 5-Way Coaxial Speakers

• Infinity Reference X REF-9602ix 6″x9″ 2-way car speakers

• Rockford Fosgate R169X3 Prime 6 x 9 Inch 3-Way Full-Range Coaxial Speaker

• Jl Audio C2-690tx 6×9-Inch 3 Way Speakers with Silk Dome Tweeters

• JBL GTO938 6 x 9-Inch 3-Way Loudspeaker

In order to compile a good audio system in your vehicle, you will need to invest in a good set of car speakers. Of course, this is somewhat easier said than done, since there are so many speakers on the market.

How can you know for certain you’re making the right choice?

Will your speakers work fluidly with your current setup?

Below, you will discover a comprehensive buyer’s guide, so you can rest assured knowing you’ve made the right choice for your money!

Infinity Reference 9633CF High Performance Loudspeaker (Pair)

If you are a music enthusiast that likes to ride em’ high, you will need to consider investing in the Infinity Reference 9633CF Loudspeaker. The loudspeaker is offering 300 watts of peak power, which is pretty significant, when you consider its price tag.

To enhance the longevity of the loudspeaker, Infinity used a patent pending Plus One woofer cone, with durable rubber surrounds. You will be able to turn your tunes up to the maximum volume, without causing any damage to the unit.

Adjustable Tweeter Levels

To get the most out of the Infinity Reference Loudspeaker, you will have the option of making tweeter level adjustments as needed. The adjustment mechanism will also provide swivel positioning for optimized sound. This feature is definitely a plus, because it provides an immense amount of flexibility that is not offered by the competitive brand.

The 9633CF Loudspeakers are extremely easy to install, thanks to the Intermount III and I-Mount mounting systems. These systems, along with the detailed step-by-step instructional booklet will guide you through the entire process, so even the least knowledgeable person could have the speakers installed in 30 minutes or less.

The embedded edge-driven domes are rarely something that is found in car audio speakers, but instead premium home audio speakers. This will ensure a quality sound, even at the maximum volume level.

Pros

• Premium edge-driven textile domes
• 6” X 9” three-way loudspeakers
• Includes a set of two speakers
• Plus One woofer cones, protected by rubber surrounds
• Includes a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty
• Peak power handling – 300 watts
• Impedance – 2 Ohms
• Tweet level is adjustable, with swivel positioning
• Sensitivity level – 94 decibels
• Quick and easy installation (requires 14G wire)

Cons

• Is not compatible with all vehicle makes and models, you will need to contact the manufacturer, before purchase

Overall Assessment

The Infinity Reference 9633CF 3-Way Loudspeaker is a must have for any mobile music enthusiast. The loudspeakers are topnotch and will provide you with an extended service life. It is backed by a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty, just to give the consumer peace of mind in knowing they are investing in a high-quality pair of loudspeakers.

Polk Audio DB651 2-Way Marine Certified Car Speakers 

If those factory-installed speakers in your car just aren’t doing the job, you need to check out the Polk Audio DB651 2-Way Car Speakers. These speakers use cutting edge technology to bring you a sound like you have never heard before. The DB651 is a 6-½ inch coax speaker that is designed to replace a variety of factory speakers with ease.

Unlike a foam surround, the DB651s are constructed with a durable rubber surround, which prevents them from falling apart, when exposed to extreme temperatures. On top of all of this, the swivel mount tweeter allows the speaker to aim the sound in a more precise manner, which will offer more balance to an all-around sound.

Unique High Efficiency Design

One of the most desirable things about the DB651 speakers is the unique high efficiency design. Basically, these speakers are designed to bring you more audio output, while requiring less amplifier power. You can achieve better sound and more volume all while using less power. Most aftermarket speakers are supposed to be installed in conjunction with an additional amp. However, with the DBS651 speakers you do not even need an additional amp for the speakers to sound great. Install them with your car’s factory audio electronics and you will still get a banging sound.

Along with all of this, the DB651s are also Marine certified. These speakers have been put through some of the harshest conditions and came out on top. Marine certified speakers offer more versatility, because they can be installed into boats, wakeboards and canoes.

Pros

• Marine certified
• Replaces most factory speakers with ease
• Comes with an adapter for easy installation in European vehicles
• Durable rubber surround, which can withstand harsh temperatures
• High efficiency design requires less amp power, with a louder sound
• Can be used without an amplifier
• Handles 360 watts per pair

Cons

• Requires a high-pass filter, if wiring with an amp to prevent damage at high volumes

Overall Assessment

With the easy installation and very detailed instructional manual, you will not have a problem installing these speakers. Along with this, if you are a European auto driver, the package comes along with an adapter for an even easier installation. For the price and the versatility, you simply cannot go wrong with the DB651 speakers.

Polk Audio DB6501 2-Way Component System (Pair)

A set of woofers, with essentials should not break the bank, since most music lovers are living on a strict financial budget. Instead of spending your hard-earned money on an expensive brand, invest wisely by purchasing the Polk Audio DB6501 2-Way Component System. The system includes everything you need to soup of your factory audio system in a matter of 60 minutes or less. To ensure the longevity of the two-way Butterworth outboard crossover, the housing is vented for adequate air circulation. There is also an electronic tweeter protection circuit, which will prevent short circuits, by blowing the fuse.

Premium Done And Tweeters

The built-in dome tweeters are constructed out of silk and polymer composites. These liquid-cooled materials are heat resistance to ensure longevity. The tweeters are embedded with a premium-grade neodymium magnet for detailed highs, which is a necessity for most music enthusiasts. The woofers feature a very unique cone, constructed out of polymer/mica composite, with a durable butyl rubber surround. This will definitely enhance the speaker’s service life, so you will never need to worry about wasting your money on this investment.

You would be surprised to discover that the Polk Audio DB6501 has been certified for marine application. This basically means that the speakers will endure the toughest environments, plus they can be installed into skis, boats and wakeboards.

Pros

• Includes adaptor rings for an easier installation
• Total impendence – 4 Ohms
• Capable of handling up to 100 watts of continuous power
• Sensitivity – 92 decibels
• Includes a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty on parts and labor
• Comes with a pair of woofers, crossovers and tweeters
• Offers superior highs
• 5” component system (fits up to 6-3/4” spaces)
• Suitable for marine and car application

Cons

• Return policy is very detailed and products must be returned to the manufacture for a replacement or refund

Overall Assessment

The Polk Audio DB6501 2-Way Component System may be a little difficult to install for the first timer. However, if you follow the instructional guide and utilize the included adaptors, you will do just fine.

For the price, you cannot beat this set, plus it includes everything you need to soup up your factory system. A separate amplifier is not required, since the crossover is considered to be the amp.

Kicker DS65 6.5” Coax Speakers

If you’re looking for an excellent pair of car speakers that will not break the bank, you should check out the Kicker DS65 6.5” Coax Speakers. This speaker comes in a pair and includes a 6.5-inch woofer and a half inch tweeter. While the speakers are surprisingly affordable, they’re more than capable of delivering a big, bold performance. In fact, the speakers are perfect for a wide assortment of different music genres ranging from rock and roll to hip hop. They are also equipped with a high-quality motor structure, which greatly improves their performance.

Excellent Quality And Sound

Truly, the Kicker DS65 Speakers will deliver the perfect combination of quality and performance. These woofers feature the innovative EVC, Extended Voice Coil, technology, which helps to ensure the user will always experience an ultra-clean bass. The tweeters feature a titanium-dome and oversized voice coils. The combination guarantees you will be provided with outstanding sound definition and clarity. The surround material is ribbed and UV treated. This greatly extends the lifespan of the speaker, while also delivering optimum audio quality.

To make the speaker combination even more appealing, the company offers a 2-year warranty on these speakers. This helps to guarantee that they’ll last for a long period of time. Despite the immense affordability, the speakers deliver amazing longevity, surprising durability and immaculate sound quality.

Pros

• Comes in a pair
• Includes 6.5-inch woofer and .5-inch tweeter
• High quality motor structure greatly improves the speaker’s performance
• Extended Voice Coil guarantees an ultra-clean bass
• Protected by a 2-year limited warranty
• Tweeters feature oversized voice coils for immaculate definition

Cons

• Not the best bass speaker

Overall Assessment

When it comes down to it, there is a lot to like about the Kicker DS65 Speakers. While they are coaxial speakers, they still deliver a decent bass performance. They’re very well rounded and will most certainly serve the consumer for many years to come. Whether you’re a fan of rock, metal or hip hop, you will enjoy your time with these speakers. For the price, they’re definitely well worth the investment.

Kenwood KFC1694PS 6.5-Inch Speakers

Kenwood is definitely one of the most notable brands in the industry. The company has managed to build a solid reputation, by consistently delivering high quality speakers to consumers throughout the world. The company’s KFC1694PS 6.5-Inch Speakers are certainly one of the best car speakers on the market. They feature everything you need to get a great audio performance, while greatly enhancing your vehicle’s audio system.

Power And More

The Kenwood KFC1694PS Speakers are capable of handling 240 watts of peak power. They feature a power range of 2 to 70 watts. The combination ensures that the speakers will be able to take a great deal of abuse, without becoming damaged or unusable. At the same time, the speakers are capable of handling a large frequency range from 80 to 22,000 Hz. This guarantees that they’ll be able to hit the highs and lows, without any difficulty.

The speakers also have a sensitivity rating of 88 db and a nominal impedance of 4 Ohms. The woofer with the grille weighs just 1.8 pounds. Therefore, they have a little bit of weight, but will not be too difficult to install. While the speakers are affordable, they’re still capable of delivering a satisfactory performance even if you consider yourself to be picky.

Pros

• Built-in cone constructed out of durable polypropylene material
• Frequency response – 80-22,000 Hertz
• Power Range from 2 to 70 watts
• Capable of handling up to 240 watts of continuous power
• Very lightweight (1.2 pounds)
• Speaker depth – 1-13/16”
• 70 RMS for each speaker
• Built-in foil tweeters
• Easy installation process

Cons

• Negative speaker terminal is very thin and fragile, but this is general with most speakers

Overall Assessment

The Kenwood KFC1694PS 3-Way Car Speakers will be music to your ears, especially for those that have been forced to deal with factory speakers. The speakers are extremely easy to install, but this will depend on the installer’s mechanical skills. Just follow the detailed instructional guide and you will do just fine.

Pioneer TSD1602R 6.5 Inch Two-Way Speakers

If you want to take your car’s factory audio system and completely transform it at a great affordable price, you have to check out the Pioneer TSD1602R 6.5 Inch Two-Way Speakers. With all the features and affordable price, it really is no marvelous wonder as to why these Pioneer speakers are considered some of the best 6.5-inch speakers available on the open market.

These speakers do have a feature that Pioneer users might be familiar with, which is the exclusive rear chamber tweeter. The tweeter first appeared in the Pioneer PRS speakers, extending the mid-range frequency and providing better vocal imaging and staging. This feature was so amazing and popular that it was incorporated into the new D-series speakers.

First Cone Made Of Basalt Volcanic Rock Fibers

One of the most amazing things about these new D-series speakers is the cone, which is actually constructed of basalt volcanic rock fibers. These fibers are extremely durable and absorbent, which enhances their stability and provides more protection from a vast range of temperatures. Within the speakers, you will also find a V-shaped tweeter diaphragm. This newly designed diaphragm ensures that the speakers provide better sound dispersion, so that the passengers and drivers can enjoy the same powerful sound.

Pros

• Durable rubber surround
• V-shaped tweeter provider better sound dispersion
• Cone is constructed of basalt volcanic rock fibers
• Exclusive rear chamber tweeter provides better vocal range
• The full-depth basket design delivers a harder hitting bass

Cons

• Sounds better in vehicles, if you also replace the factory head unit

With the bang for the buck that you get from this stellar deal, you really cannot go wrong with these Pioneer beauties. The new full-depth basket design will provide users with a much harder hitting bass than what they are used to with the factory speakers. Once these speakers are installed, you will notice the difference right away and be happy that you made the switch.

Best Car Speakers Buying Guide

A lot of consumers will make a decision based on the price of the speaker and nothing else. This will prove to be a costly mistake. Instead, it is essential to carefully analyze the speaker’s specifications and your current setup. Using this information will make it possible for you to obtain the best speakers for your money. Below, you will discover factors that must be considered!

Types Of Speakers

First and foremost, you should realize that there are two types of speakers available. They include full-range speakers and component speakers. While they’re somewhat similar, they’re also different. These two types will be explored in greater detail below.

Full-Range Speakers

As the name suggests, the full-range speaker contains all speaker elements in a convenient bundle. In general, this type of speaker will include a woofer and a tweeter. This will ensure your audio system is able to achieve the highs and lows. It is also possible to find models, which have other drivers. This may include a mid-range or super tweeter. Typically, full-range speakers are more affordable and they’re best for those that are trying to replace their factory speakers.

Component Speakers

Component speakers are different, because they come separated. It may be possible to buy component speakers in bundles, but they will not be pieced together in a case of sorts. The component system will include individual woofers, crossovers and tweeters. Then, these individualistic components will be connected together. This will allow them to work in perfect unison with one another. In general, component speakers are higher quality and they’ll usually deliver a better performance. Just remember that piecing together all of the separate speakers can be a hassle.

Nonetheless, if you want the best audio system possible, it is best to opt for a component system.

Speaker Size

Before getting in too far, it is a good idea to learn a little more about the different sizes of speakers. In general, it will be possible to find speakers in two or three different sizes. They usually include 5.5-inch, 6.5-inch, and sometimes even 9-inch. If you’re replacing factory-installed speakers, it will be pertinent to make sure you opt for an identical size.

This will guarantee that the replacement speaker will fit the speaker compartment perfectly. If your new speaker is too big, you’ll need to make further accommodations to get the speaker to fit in your vehicle. Also, make sure you check out the depth of the speaker. The depth needs to be perfect otherwise the new woofer or speaker will not fit into the designated slot.

Sensitivity

Now that you’ve learned a little more about the different speaker types, it is time to delve into the specifications of speakers. The sensitivity of the speaker is something that will prove to be very impactful. This factor will tell you precisely how much sound the speaker will be able to deliver once the power is applied. Remember that you need to carefully match the speaker’s sensitivity level with your audio system’s power level.

Speakers with lower sensitivity levels are better suited for higher powered systems and vice versa. Perfectly matching the power and sensitivity will ultimately deliver a much better sound quality.

Power Handling Capabilities

As the title suggests, power-handling will tell you precisely how much power the speaker can handle, without blowing or experiencing distortion. If you have a lower powered system, you can easily save yourself a little bit of money by opting for a less capable speaker. However, if your audio system is very powerful, you’ll need tougher and more capable speakers. Speakers will have two power specifications. They include RMS and peak power ratings.

The RMS power rating tells you how much continuous power the speaker can handle. The peak power is the maximum power the speaker can handle at once. The experts typically recommend paying more attention to the RMS power, as it will prove to be more important in the long run.

Frequency Range

While the power capabilities of the speaker are undeniably important, it is essential to put great emphasis into the speaker’s frequency range. A speaker with a wider range will be able to produce more sounds. Just remember that the frequency range can a little misleading. It is not always vital to opt for the biggest range. Most automobile audio systems will not be able to produce a full range of sounds and some of these frequencies may not be audible anyway.

Nonetheless, audiophiles will appreciate the thought of having speakers with a full frequency range.

The Material

It is also important to carefully inspect the material used for the speaker in question. The material can have a major impact on the sound quality delivered. Woofers should be manufactured from lightweight, but stiff, materials. This will ensure they’re able to accurately produce the music’s bass sounds, without any problems whatsoever. This is why polypropylene is generally a good choice. You should also pay close attention to the surround materials. The material needs to be able to withstand humidity and heat! If the material is unable to stand up to these elements, it will quickly wear out in your automobile.

Rubbers is generally the best choice. If you’re looking for something a little more affordable, you should opt for cloth or foam. Finally, you should inspect the tweeter’s materials. These speakers are generally manufactured with softer materials, such as silk or even polyurethane. Alternatively, a harder material, such as metal or graphic, will be able to deliver a louder pop.

Detachable Tweeters

In some cases, it may be possible to find tweeters that are detachable. This makes them much more versatile and ensures they can be installed in component and full-range systems. The detachable feature will prove to be very beneficial, when you’re forced to upgrade to a new vehicle. Since the speakers can easily be detached from the system, you will be able to effortlessly move them from one automobile to the next.

Pivoting Tweeters

Alternatively, you should know that some tweeters will feature a pivoting mechanism. This makes it possible for the consumer to pivot the speaker in one direction or the another. This is a good feature, if you have limited room inside of your automobile. The pivoting feature will ensure you’re able to direct the audio into the appropriate direction easily.

Price Ranges

When it comes down to it, a lot of consumers will put great importance on the price of their speakers. The truth of the matter is that spending more will generally get you a better pair of speakers and an improved audio experience. Nonetheless, this will not always be the case. Remember that it is essential to choose speakers that work perfectly with your audio system. As long as the specifications match up correctly, a cheaper speaker may work more impressively than a much more expensive speaker.

With this in mind, you should set a budget and then work around this figure. This will ensure you’re able to get the best car speakers for your money, without going overboard.

Consider Your Automobile And Driving Habits

While you’re at it, you will want to carefully consider your automobile and your driving behavior. Do you drive your vehicle over a great distance each and every day? What year was your vehicle manufactured? If you own an older vehicle, which will need to be replaced in the near future, it may not be a good idea to splurge on a new audio system. Also, you should only spend excessively for speakers, if you actually spend a great deal of time in your automobile. Consider your automobile, its condition and your driving habits before making a decision.

More complete, : Tips Buying Guide for Car Speakers

Check The Warranty

Last, but certainly not least, it will be pertinent to carefully examine the warranty provided with the speaker in question. The warranty can tell you a great deal about the manufacturer and what they think about their product. If the speaker has a longer warranty, it is highly likely the manufacturer expects it to last for a much longer duration. And of course, it is always best to opt for a lengthier warranty anyway. Doing so will help to ensure that your investment is protected for a much longer period of time.