How to Choose Speakers for Your Car Stereo

The original speakers in most cars aren't very good. If you've already replaced the original radio in your car and you want to improve the sound even more, replace the factory speakers.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Car Door Poppers
• Car Stereo Speakers
• Speaker Cables

When You Get to the Store

1. Select several speakers that fit your car and budget.

2. Ask the salesperson to plug the speakers you've chosen into a radio that's similar to the one in your car.

3. Play your own music when testing the speakers.

4. Choose the speakers that sound best to you.

5. Choose coaxial speakers for the front doors. (A coaxial speaker is actually an assembly of two speakers. One plays the mid-range/mid-bass frequencies, and one plays the highs.)

6. Check the speaker package before you leave the store. Make sure you're getting everything you bought: speakers, screws, grille, speaker wire, owner's manual, installation instructions and warranty.

Before You Go Shopping

7. Remove the existing speakers.

8. Measure the speaker openings. Front speakers usually measure 4 inches, 5 inches or 6 inches. Speakers in the rear deck are usually 6 by 9 inches, 6 1/2 inches or 5 1/4 inches.

9. Choose a favorite CD or tape to bring with you.

Tips & Warnings

• If you can't measure the speaker openings, bring the original speakers with you when you shop.
• Use a door panel popper to remove the panel and get to the speakers.
• Make sure to label and secure the original speaker wires.

on 11/22/2005 I've recently upgraded my stereo system. With this upgrade came a lot of Dynamat. This stuff has stopped a lot of door rattles and given me more decibels when it comes to bass. It can cost a bit of money, but the stuff is well worth it. It can make a decent set of speakers sound great.

on 11/22/2005 I consider it an insult to a good and well-mastered CD if you pick speakers that can not reproduce a clean, well-defined tone. Make sure the speakers you choose have a specific range, and remember to complete your speaker set with hi-mid-low and mid-low speakers. When a CD is mastered, people look for a well-rounded sound, so make sure your system is well-rounded.

on 11/22/2005 Definitely audition the speakers at the store. They may not sound the same when installed in your doors (more bass) but will help you gauge which brand/model sounds better for you.

on 11/22/2005 When looking for speakers that provide the Mid to High range of freq., look at 4x6 plates instead of 4x6 coaxials and also look at Component sets. These offer better crossover networks and will provide a cleaner sound w/ less distortion. may cost more.

on 11/22/2005 Make sure there is enough depth behind the speaker mounting surface of your car for the back of the speakers. Also check the space between the mounting surface and grill (such as between the door and door panel) to be sure your speaker will fit.