Many people like to turn on music while traveling by car. Good sound makes trips more enjoyable and less tiring, but most new cars in the basic version, unfortunately, either do not have car acoustics at all, or this is not the sound that the vehicle owner would like. When a car enthusiast is faced with such a situation, he is faced with the question of how to choose speakers and other acoustic devices for the car.
What to look for when buying component speakers
Usually the car is equipped with standard acoustics, the quality of which is at an average level. Therefore, many car enthusiasts want to improve the sound in the cabin, and a component speaker system is a great option. As the name implies, acoustics consists of several components. An important difference from coaxial systems is that the high-frequency speakers are made in the form of separate compact devices.
Speaker sizes
There are several standard sizes of component acoustics. The diameter of the larger loudspeaker is usually specified for the kit. The dimensions of the tweeter (tweeter) are indicated in the instructions or on the manufacturer’s website. Companies produce component speakers with a diameter of 10, 13 and 16 cm. The most popular models have a diameter of 13 and 16 cm - these will be discussed in our review.
Number of lanes
More bands provide better sound uniformity across the entire audible range. The following component systems are used in cars:
- Two-way. The set consists of a tweeter (high-frequency speaker) and a main speaker (reproduces the mid/low range).
- Three-lane. In such a system, three types of speakers are used (HF, MF, LF), each of which reproduces separate frequencies (high, medium, low).
In addition to the loudspeakers, the set includes a crossover that connects to the acoustics and amplifier, and allows you to accurately distribute frequencies for each speaker.
System power
When choosing models, you should take into account the power of the acoustics.
- The rated power shows how much power can be supplied to the column for a long time without danger of damage (one hour in normal mode).
- Maximum power reflects how much power the speaker can withstand without mechanical damage in a very short period of time (about 2 seconds).
- Output power affects the overall sound quality. The more watts, the better. The parameter is indicated in the technical properties of the car radio or a separate amplifier.
For the entire system to function correctly, the rated power of the speakers should not be lower than the power of the amplifier.
Frequency range
Component systems use different types of speakers to reproduce all frequencies: subwoofers are used for bass, mid-range speakers are used, and tweeters provide high range.
Each acoustics manufacturer chooses its own methods for assessing the frequency range. Therefore, in the car interior, even systems with similar technical parameters sound differently. You only need to focus on individual preferences.
Acoustic sensitivity
This parameter shows the sound volume of the acoustics. Sensitivity is measured in decibels. When connected to an amplifier with the same power, an acoustic with high sensitivity reproduces the sound better. Top systems have values from 90 dB.
Peculiarities
In some respects, component acoustics differ from coaxial systems.
- Accommodation. The speakers are mounted separately, which provides surround, rich sound.
- Design. A separate housing is used for each emitter (speaker), which allows the sound direction to be correctly distributed.
- Sound quality. Component systems are better than coaxial systems: more installation options, additional settings.
- Installation. Each speaker and crossover must be positioned optimally, which complicates equipment placement.
- Price. Compared to coaxial models, the price of a set of component acoustics is higher. Therefore, this option is recommended for users who are really interested in car audio and have sufficient finances.
Installation and connection rules
To correctly install the speakers on the rear and front doors, follow the step-by-step instructions and take into account the connection diagram of the audio system components.
Required wires
To connect the car radio to the speakers, you will need different types of cables:
- Adapters for connecting crossovers and filters, antennas, tuners.
- Power cables. Both highly specialized and standard wires are used.
- Line cables for connecting speakers.
Connection diagram
When assembling a speaker system, several options for placing components are used. The circuit is selected taking into account the types of connectors and other standard elements.
Depending on this, there are 3 options for connecting devices:
- connecting a ready-made radio with speakers;
- connecting the speakers to the car radio, pre-connected cables (the player is disconnected from the plug);
- laying new cables with subsequent connection of equipment components.
To avoid mixing up the wires, follow this diagram:
- The positive terminal of the ignition system is designated by the code ACC. The cable has a red braid.
- The left speaker wire is enclosed in white insulation and marked FL. The negative cable is equipped with a special strip.
- To connect the right speaker, use the gray wire (FR).
- The purple cable marked RR is connected to the right rear speaker.
Rating of component acoustics with a diameter of 16 cm for 2021
1. The best component acoustics of all Pioneer TS-650C
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Why we liked it: Pioneer acoustics are perfect for upgrading a standard system. The speakers are made from reliable components and provide excellent, powerful sound that most users will enjoy. Editor's Rating:
Technical specifications
The power value for the Pioneer two-way system is 60 W. The speakers reproduce frequencies from 30 to 30,000 Hz. The impedance is 4 ohms and the sensitivity level is 88 dB, which is less than the JBL Stage3 607CF model. These properties must be taken into account when connecting an audio receiver or additional amplifier.
Appearance
Two-way component speakers TS-650C are compactly housed in a branded box. The kit consists of main loudspeakers, tweeters with mounts, two crossovers, and accessories. The low-frequency speakers have a polypropylene diffuser (a reliable material, widely used in car speakers). To better reduce vibrations, the upper suspension is made of rubber. All speakers are conveniently mounted in the cabin. The tweeters have protective grilles, but the main emitters are not equipped with grilles.
Sound quality
Pioneer acoustics reproduce bass perfectly, and the compositions also contain high frequencies. The system's power is sufficient for most users; in addition to the speakers, you can connect an external amplifier. A wide frequency range allows the speakers to accurately reproduce the user's music library.
pros
- good assembly;
- high power;
- wide frequency range;
- powerful bass;
- convenient installation.
Minuses
- There are no protective panels for the speakers.
2. The best three-way component acoustics Focal 165 AS3
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Why we liked it: the Focal 165 AS3 acoustics are distinguished by their reliable assembly, original design and great sound. The kit is affordable compared to its competitors, making it a great option to buy. Editor's Rating:
Technical specifications
The three-way system has a power of 80 W and reproduces a frequency range of 55–20,000 Hz. The acoustics have a sensitivity of 90 dB and an impedance of 4 ohms, which allows you to connect the speakers to an audio receiver or use an additional amplifier. Woofers and midrange speakers provide powerful sound and rich bass.
Appearance
Component acoustics Focal 165 AS3 consists of 165 mm woofers, compact 80 mm midrange drivers and tweeters with mounting brackets. The set is completed with crossovers and metal meshes. In the woofer and midrange speakers, the diffuser is made of fiberglass (a reliable material with good acoustic properties). The tweeter contains an aluminum diffuser that reproduces the high range with high quality. The acoustic set is made in a corporate style that goes well with different interiors. In comparison with other manufacturers, this is the best three-component acoustic system in terms of cost and sound quality.
Sound quality
The sound of the system is excellent, the entire frequency range is balanced. At high volumes, distortion is minimal. The melodies are distinguished by detail and correct transmission of mid and low frequencies. High notes are perfectly reproduced by tweeters, but the drivers need to be properly mounted: for optimal sound, the correct placement of the speakers in the car is key.
pros
- good power;
- balanced sound;
- corporate design;
- affordable price;
- protective panels.
Minuses
- placement of tweeters.
3. The best two-way component acoustics Nakamichi NSE-CS607
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Why we liked it: The NSE-CS607 component speaker system is superbly built and reliable. Music reproduction is clear and highly detailed. The cost of the acoustics is high, but the sound quality is excellent. Editor's Rating:
Technical specifications
The rated power of two-way acoustics NSE-CS607 is 40 W. This is less than competing systems from JBL and Pioneer. The frequency range is 50–20000 Hz, sensitivity is 88 dB, impedance is 4 ohms. Thanks to these parameters, the speaker system provides good sound.
Appearance
The Nakamichi kit consists of two LF/MF speakers with protective metal meshes, a pair of tweeters with mounting adapters, external crossovers and wires. The low-frequency loudspeakers have a steel basket, the magnet is protected by a rubber pad. The diffuser is made of durable polypropylene, the rubber suspension reduces vibrations. Such reliable components ensure long-term operation of the acoustics. The external panels of the woofers and tweeters are made in the same style, the acoustics have an individual design.
Sound quality
At high volumes the speakers sound clear. The melodies have a lot of bass and high detail in the high frequencies. The speaker system perfectly reproduces different styles of music and is suitable for connoisseurs of high-quality sound. The cost of Nakamichi NSE-CS607 is higher than models of the same class from JBL and Pioneer.
pros
- rich bass;
- great sound;
- high-quality assembly;
- metal mesh;
- stylish design.
Minuses
- high price.
4. JBL Stage3 607CF
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Why we liked it: the Stage3 607C car audio system from JBL has excellent power and sound performance. When the entire system is properly configured, listening to music in the cabin is very comfortable. Editor's Rating:
Technical specifications
The rated power of two-way acoustics is 50 W, the available frequency range is from 55 Hz to 20 kHz. Sensitivity is at a good level - 92 dB, impedance is 3 Ohms. These parameters allow you to connect the system directly to an audio receiver or use an external power amplifier. The advantage of the JBL model is its affordable price compared to two-way systems from other companies.
Appearance
The JBL Stage3 607CF kit comes in a branded box containing two main speakers, a pair of tweeters, plastic mounting cups for the tweeters and two external crossovers. There are no wires or protective nets in the set.
The tweeter has a diameter of 32.5 mm. The JBL logo is located in front of the tweeters - the devices look stylish. The emitters can be positioned correctly in the cabin using reliable plastic fasteners. The midrange/woofer speaker is assembled on a stamped metal basket, which ensures mechanical strength. For air cooling of the speaker there are holes at the bottom of the base. The diffuser of the device is made of cellulose, reinforced with an upper rubber suspension. This design ensures accurate sound reproduction. The kit includes two crossovers to which all speakers are connected. On top of the crossover body there is a logo combined with a button for adding total power.
Sound quality
The speakers reproduce bass, midrange and high notes well. For optimal high-range sound, it is important to properly mount the tweeters in the interior in a listener-oriented manner.
pros
- reliable assembly and materials;
- air cooling;
- mounting cups for tweeters;
- high sensitivity and power;
- optimal cost.
Minuses
- The kit does not include wires or protective nets.
5. The best premium component acoustics Audison Prima APK 163
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Why we liked it: The Audison three-way speaker delivers excellent sound and has a large power rating. Reliable assembly, high-quality components and ease of installation are additional advantages of the Prima APK 163 speaker system . Editor's rating:
Technical specifications
Of the models reviewed in the review, this three-way system is the most powerful (125 W). The frequency range is from 50 to 20,000 Hz, the impedance is 4 ohms. The sensitivity of the system is 93.5 dB, which is an indicator of high-end devices. The technical properties of the three-way acoustics Prima APK 163 are better than those of the Focal 165 AS3 model, but the cost of the Audison set is much higher.
Appearance
The kit includes: two main speakers, a pair of midrange speakers, two tweeters (with mounts), a set of crossovers and protective metal panels. The bass and midrange speaker baskets have a small mounting depth (56 and 41 mm, respectively). Such dimensions allow you to replace the standard sound system without upgrading the interior.
The set includes three compact crossovers: the small size allows you to conveniently position this equipment. Baskets (bases) of LF and MF emitters are made of steel and have high mechanical strength. The speaker cones are made of cellulose with a protective layer (for extra durability). The tweeter dome uses Tetolon (synthetic silk) to ensure detailed high range reproduction. All system components have excellent assembly, which guarantees long-term operation.
Sound quality
The acoustic system provides excellent sound; all frequencies in the compositions are optimally balanced. The speakers are very powerful and create rich sound. An external amplifier can be used to upgrade the system.
pros
- excellent assembly;
- high power;
- great sound;
- convenient installation;
- protective panels.
Minuses
- Not everyone can afford it.
Comparative characteristics of devices
| Model | Rated power, W | Impedance, Ohm | Sensitivity, dB | frequency Hz | Installation depth, mm | price, rub. |
| Hertz ESK 165.5 | 100 | 4 | 93 | 60-23000 | 65 | From 1020 |
| Audio System Radion 165 | 90 | 4 | 92 | 65-20000 | 62 | From 8400 |
| Audison Prima APK 165 | 100 | 4 | 93 | 60-20000 | 56 | From 11 700 |
| JVC CS-J610 | 30 | 4 | 92 | 35-20000 | 43 | From 990 |
| PRIDE EMERALD 6.5 FB | 100 | 3,1 | 98 | 120-22000 | 64 | From 3500 |
| PIONEER TS-M650PRO | 110 | 4 | 94 | 50-18000 | 79 | From 5540 |
| Ural AS-D200 Armada NEO | 160 | 4 | 99 | 80-8000 | 76 | From 2390 |
| Edge EDPRO6E-E8 | 150 | 4 | 90 | 80-10000 | 78 | From 1510 |
| Aura SM-B808 | 200 | 8 | 95 | 70-12000 | 79 | From 2190 |
| Focal 165 AC | 60 | 4 | 91 | 60-20000 | 63 | From 6170 |
| Alpine SPR-50 | 90 | 4 | 87 | 70-29000 | 57 | From 9140 |
| Hertz MPX 165.3 | 100 | 4 | 92 | 45-21500 | 63 | From 12 540 |
| Audison Voce AV K6 | 125 | 4 | 91 | 50-22000 | 69 | From 25 900 |
| Morel Virtus 603 | 140 | 4 | 88 | 55-22000 | 61 | From 33 990 |
| Hertz MLK 1650.3 | 150 | 4 | 92 | 40-28000 | 69 | From 49 990 |
| Polk Audio DB691 | 100 | 4 | 93 | 35-22000 | 81 | From 7999 |
| Alpine SPG-69C3 | 90 | 4 | 91 | 65-19000 | 76 | From 3899 |
| Morel MAXIMO-Coax6x9 | 100 | 4 | 92 | 45-20000 | 81 | From 3689 |
| Mystery MJ 105BX | 45 | 4 | 90 | 100-20000 | — | From 1090 |
Rating of component acoustics with a diameter of 13 cm for 2021
1. Pioneer TS-A133Ci
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Why we liked it: The Pioneer TS-A133Ci system has a reliable build, provides good power, and reproduces a wide frequency range. The sound is balanced and rich, so the acoustics will suit most users. Editor's Rating:
Technical specifications
Pioneer two-way speakers have a power of 50 W and can reproduce frequencies from 42 to 42,000 Hz. The impedance of the speakers is 4 Ohms, the sensitivity is 90 dB - these parameters allow you to connect the speakers to an audio receiver with a powerful built-in amplifier.
Appearance
The TS-A133Ci model comes in a branded package, which contains: two midrange/bass speakers, a pair of crossovers, tweeters and protective metal mesh. The loudspeaker baskets are steel, the diffusers are made of multilayer composite material, and there is a rubber suspension along the upper perimeter. This design is reliable and correctly reproduces the mid and low range. The tweeters are equipped with plastic adapters, which allows you to correctly position these emitters.
Sound quality
The main speakers reproduce bass and midrange well, and the tweeters complement the highs. The sound of the speakers is spacious and balanced; at high volumes, melodies sound clear.
pros
- quality components;
- high power;
- balanced sound;
- wide frequency range;
- protective panels included.
Minuses
- you need a powerful amplifier.
2. The best budget component acoustics Ural AS-C1327K
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Why we liked it: the Ural acoustics have high reliability and high-quality assembly, providing good sound reproduction. An important advantage of the model is its affordable cost. Editor's Rating:
Technical specifications
The component two-way speakers have a rated power of 35 W, the range is 68-23000 Hz, which is less than the Pioneer TS-A133Ci. The sensitivity of the Ural acoustics is 91 dB, the impedance is 4 Ohms, so the set can be connected to various car radios.
Appearance
The AS-C1327K speaker system consists of a pair of woofers, two tweeters, external crossovers, and protective grilles. The diffusers of the low-frequency speakers are made of polypropylene with a special coating (to improve sound parameters).
The main speaker baskets are steel. The suspension provides vibration reduction and is made of butyl rubber (a type of rubber). The silk membrane in the tweeter improves high range reproduction.
Sound quality
The acoustics have a balanced, rich sound. The compositions have low, mid, and high frequencies. For optimal sound, it is important to properly secure the speakers in the cabin.
pros
- excellent assembly;
- high-quality components;
- high sensitivity;
- rich sound;
- affordable price.
Minuses
- low power.
Voting for the best car speakers
What car speakers would you choose or recommend?
Mystery MJ 105BX
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Morel MAXIMO-Coax6x9
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Alpine SPG-69C3
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Polk Audio DB691
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Hertz MLK 1650.3
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Morel Virtus 603
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Audison Voce AV K6
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Hertz MPX 165.3
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Alpine SPR-50
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Focal 165 AC
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Aura SM-B808
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Edge EDPRO6E-E8
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Ural AS-D200 Armada NEO
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PIONEER TS-M650PRO
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PRIDE EMERALD 6.5 FB
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JVC CS-J610
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Audison Prima APK 165
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Audio System Radion 165
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How to choose the best component speakers
Installation features
Component acoustics must be properly placed in the cabin to produce rich and spacious sound.
- The main difference between component systems is that the tweeters and midrange/woofers are located separately. This design allows you to create better sound than using coaxial speakers.
- Component systems are sold as a set, and the main size is indicated for the midrange/woofer. As with coaxial speakers, there are popular models with a diameter of 13 and 16 cm. The dimensions of the supplied tweeters are small (from 2 cm).
- Tweeters are placed in the front part of the cabin (console, racks) towards the listener. It is advisable to place the midrange speakers near the tweeters to balance the sound of frequencies. The main (low-frequency) speakers are mounted in the doors. This method provides an optimal sound panorama in the cabin.
- The systems use crossovers (devices for dividing frequencies) that are connected to the acoustics. Therefore, take this into account when installing equipment.
When choosing component acoustics, check:
- compliance of speaker dimensions (shape, diameter, depth) with standard parameters;
- availability of places to place the system (doors, center console, pillars).
Technical terms
A diffuser is a speaker element whose surface reproduces sound. Companies use different materials to create diffusers. Each option has its own characteristics and is suitable for certain models, so it is impossible to clearly choose the best one.
The following materials are used for the production of diffusers:
- Cellulose . This is the most popular material. It has good strength and damping properties (reduction of vibrations). Compared to other options, the acoustics have few resonances, which means they provide natural sound. To enhance mechanical strength and protect against moisture, manufacturers use special impregnations, but such models are more expensive. Cellulose is commonly used in woofers and midrange speakers.
- Polypropylene . Also widely used in car acoustics. To improve rigidity, mineral additives based on quartz and magnesium are used in the composition. The material is cheap, resistant to climatic conditions, and provides a uniform frequency range. Small-diameter subwoofers (up to 25 cm) and mid-range speakers are equipped with polypropylene diffusers.
- Composites. The speakers use Kevlar, carbon fiber and other durable, expensive materials. The main advantages are reliability and rigidity, but the materials have low damping rates (reduction of vibrations). Therefore, the range is not as uniform as with cellulose models. Composite cones are popular in midrange and tweeter applications.
- Rubberized fabric. It has low rigidity, but excellent damping properties, therefore it is mainly used for subwoofers.
- Metals (aluminum and titanium). Designed for high-frequency speakers. These diffusers are lightweight and durable; multilayer combinations with other materials are used to reduce resonance.
- Silk. Used for dome high-frequency acoustics. The material has good strength and reliability, and ensures uniform reproduction of high frequencies.
Impedance refers to the electrical resistance of an acoustic. For car speakers the parameter is 4 ohms. The impedance of the acoustics should be identical to the impedance of the amplifier: speakers with a lower impedance cannot be connected to an amplifier for safety reasons, and models with a higher impedance are not suitable because they sound quiet.
The suspension is used in speakers to dampen the diffuser when playing sound. The suspension is made from materials that are elastic and suitable for use in different climatic conditions. The woofers use reliable soft suspensions made of rubber and rubberized fabric. For high-frequency and mid-range loudspeakers, polyurethanes or fabrics are used, which are sufficiently durable and reduce vibration well.
Speaker names
A tweeter is a small speaker (from 2 to 10 cm). In component systems, the loudspeaker is placed in a compact housing, which allows you to mount such acoustics on a panel or side pillars of the cabin. The tweeter reproduces high frequencies from 2000 to 20000 Hz.
A subwoofer is a low-frequency speaker that is needed to reproduce bass. The frequency range is typically 35–200 Hz. The subwoofer can additionally be used in conjunction with the main speakers to improve low frequencies. Subwoofers are usually placed on the rear shelf or in the trunk. There are two device options: woofers and cabinet subwoofers.
Additional devices
A crossover distributes the input signal from the amplifier to individual speakers and reduces sound distortion. As a result, high, mid and low frequencies are sent to the corresponding speakers.
There are two types of crossovers:
- External. A compact device to which an amplifier and speakers are connected. This crossover can be purchased separately or included in a set of component acoustics.
- Built-in. It is used in coaxial acoustics, has small dimensions, and is therefore located in the speaker housing.
An amplifier is a device from which the signal is supplied to speaker systems. The audio receiver uses a built-in power amplifier. An external amplifier is purchased additionally. The use of such a module in the system provides the following advantages:
- compositions are played back without distortion at high volumes;
- sound detail is significantly improved;
- In the cabin, you can use acoustics with more power.
What to prepare in advance
Selecting a good speaker system for a car, namely choosing car speakers, is not an easy task and requires preliminary preparation. The interior of a car is definitely a difficult space to obtain clear and spacious sound. When planning the installation of a new speaker, you need to take into account a large number of different nuances.
The first thing you should pay attention to is the presence of good sound insulation in the cabin. If you ignore this aspect, then all efforts, both financial and time, will be spent in vain. Even the highest quality musical equipment cannot sound good in a knocking and rattling interior. So first we test and improve the noise insulation and only then move on to the next stage - the direct selection of the speaker system.
Let's sum it up
Component acoustics are recommended for users who value high-quality sound in their car. When purchasing a branded set, the speakers and crossovers are already balanced according to technical parameters; you just need to correctly position this equipment in the cabin. Three-way speakers sound better than two-way models, but are more difficult to install. The market offers products for every taste and budget, and even among budget ones there are many truly high-quality devices. We hope our review will help you make the right choice!
Model selection rules
When choosing acoustics for a car, it is recommended to focus on the following criteria:
- diffuser size - the larger it is, the better the sound quality at low frequencies;
- number of speakers, minimum number – 2;
- number of stripes - the more, the better.
- power;
- frequency range;
- sensitivity.
So what are the best speakers to choose for your car? It is recommended to focus on the purpose of using the speakers and the size of the budget. So, if you need speakers at a reasonable cost, you should opt for the JVC CS-J610 model. Music lovers are recommended to purchase the Hertz MLK 1650.3. If you need a system with good sound quality, but at a budget price, the Audison Prima APK 165 model is suitable. Based on this principle, you can choose a suitable acoustic system from our rating.
What should be the power of good speakers?
When analyzing the concept of speaker power, it is worth remembering that the value of this indicator should be slightly greater than the outgoing power of the car radio. Otherwise, all attempts to obtain more or less high-quality sound will be reduced to zero.
Video: how to find out the power of the speakers
Typically, speakers are labeled with a rated and peak power rating, with the former indicating the power at which the speaker can be operated for long periods of time without the risk of damaging the cone or overheating the coil, and the latter indicating the maximum power the speaker can withstand for a short period of time. .
