Replacing the regular speakers with high-quality acoustics is one of the most noticeable upgrades for the car. Even in budget cars, factory speakers often sound like a can: there are no basses, the average frequencies are dirty, and distortions appear at high volume. How not to make a mistake when the market offers hundreds of models Pioneer before Focal?
This article will help you understand acoustics (coaxial, component, broadband), pick up columns under model (with regard to size and electrics), avoid typical installation errors and adjust the sound so that it is pleasing, not annoying. We analyzed reviews of car owners, tests of independent laboratories and recommendations of professional installers - so that you get the right information. Unbiased information from sellers.
Why the Standard Columns Sounds Bad: Technical Reasons
Car manufacturers save on the audio system not because of greed, but for objective reasons:
- 🔊 Diffuser materials. In 90% of cases, standard speakers are made of pressed cardboard or cheap plastic - they are light, but can not withstand the load and quickly deform.
- 🧲 Magnetic system. The magnets in the factory acoustics are weak (often ferrite), which limits the dynamic range and power.
- 🔌 Electrician.. Wires with a cross section of 0.5-0.75 mm2 and the absence of sound insulation create interference, and a weak amplifier in the head unit can not "swing" even good speakers.
- 📏 Sizes.. Manufacturers install speakers of minimum diameter (usually 10–13 cm) to save space in doors or panels.
For example, in Toyota Corolla 2018-2023 standard front speakers have a diameter of only 10 cm and a power of 15 W – this is enough only for speech podcasts. And Volkswagen Golf The same generation rear columns are often connected via a capacitor that cuts off basses below 100Hz.
⚠️ Attention: If the sound has not improved after the speakers have been replaced, the problem may be in the head unit or wiring. Check the power output of the tape recorder – if it is less than 20 watts per channel, even premium acoustics will sound dim.
Types of car columns: what to choose instead of regular
The market offers three main types of speakers, each of which solves its own problems:
| Column type | Pluses | Cons | Who's good for? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coaxial (2- or 3-band) |
Simple installation, low price, compactness | Worse is frequency separation, average sound | Budget upgrades, first columns for beginners |
| Component (Separate RF/HF/HF) |
Best detail, wide frequency range | Complicated installation, crossovers require | Audiophiles, owners of premium-auto |
| Broadband (full-range) |
Universality, does not require a subwoofer | Weak bass, limited power. | Temporary solution, back shelf |
For most cars, the best choice is coaxial with a diameter of 16-18 cm (6.5-7 inches). They replace the standard one-to-one speakers, do not require modification of the doors and give an increase in quality by 60-70%. For example, JBL Club 6520 or Pioneer TS-A1676F Popular models in this segment.
If you are willing to spend time on the setup, component (e.g., Focal Access 165 CA1 or Morel Tempo Ultra 602shall provide studio-qualityBut it will require crossovers and proper Twitter positioning.
How to choose columns by size and power
Mistake #1 when choosing acoustics is buying speakers by eye. Even if the column looks good, it may not be in a regular place because of:
- 📏 Depths of the landing site ooh BMW 3 Series E90 The front speakers have a depth of only 4 cm.
- 🔩 Type of attachment (Some cars use non-standard latches or threads.)
- 🔌 Impedance (Resistance) Most standard systems are designed for 4 ohms, but some premium cars (for example, Mercedes-Benz) use 2-ohm speakers.
To avoid problems, use them. compatibility-base:
- Crutchfield (for European and American vehicles)
- Drive2 (Owners’ reviews from the installation photo);