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In this article: We'll review 9 of our best pick 6 1/2 inch component speakers for your car, truck or vehicle with quick reviews, photos and price comparisons to help save you money.
Component speakers, also referred to as “separates” have two stand alone speakers that emit different ranges of sounds. The woofer, or the larger speaker, emits the lower to mid range frequencies. The tweeter, the small speaker, covers the high range frequencies and sounds. Separating the tweeter and woofer allows clearer sound with less distortion. If you're looking for more information about components, consider checking out our article about component vs coaxial speakers.
Whether they're components or coaxials, having a set of the best 6.5 inch car speakers is arguably the most important aspect to your car's stereo. It can also be the most difficult to choose at times. They range in price, power, size and more importantly quality. With endless choices from manufacturers around the world, finding a pair of the best car speakers is hard. But if you want to upgrade the sound of your car’s stereo, a set of quality car speakers is necessary. A new set of aftermarket 6 1/2 inch components will improve the quality, increase the volume but also bring more clarity to your music while decreasing the distortion. It could even add a little bass to your system, but we'd recommend a 6×9 speaker or subwoofer for those looking for bass specifically.
In this list of best 6.5″ component car speakers, we compile our top picks based on our own experience and research. These speakers might not be ideal for every application, but are our representation of speakers that are from reputable brands and product high quality music with longevity. You can check out our broader list of best car speakers if you're looking for another size or speaker type. And if you're not 100% positive your car will fit one of these 6 1/2″ speakers, check out our car speaker fitment guide to confirm the speaker sizes for your year, make and model.
Here Are Our Best 6.5 Inch Component Car Speakers of 2022
- Best Overall 6.5″ Component Car Speaker Pick: Focal PS 165 FXE
- Runner Up, Best Overall 6 1/2 Component Car Speaker: Hertz CK 165 F
- Best Hybrid 6.5″ Car Speaker: JL Audio C3-650
- Best High Resolution 6 1/2 Car Speaker: Sony XS-162ES
- Best 6.5″ Car Speaker for Bass: Rockford Fosgate T2652-S
- Best Factory Replacement 6.5″ Speaker: Infinity REF-6530cx
- Best All Weather 6 1/2 inch Car Speakers: Polk Audio DB6502
Best Overall 6.5″ Component Car Speaker Pick:
Focal PS 165 FXE
Focal PS 165 FXE Review
Focal is serious about creating high-fidelity sound in the car audio marketplace. Their newest 6.5-inch component set is the PS 165 FXE, which incorporates the French company's iconic use of flax fibers and some of the highest-end technology in the business to produce the best sounding component speakers in the world. We know these have a high price tag, but it's for a reason. Ask anyone in the stereo industry – home and automotive – and they'll know Focal. We did a first look and feature overview of this the PS 165 FXE and loved what we saw and heard.
Flax Woofer Cone and TMD Surround
The woofer cone is made of a sandwiched flax fiber core with glass layers. Flax is a highly rigid, lightweight, and hollow material that allows these speakers to be among the most rigid and responsive with very low harmonic distortion. It’s one of the features that’s unique to Focal’s lineup of speakers, including the PS 165 FXE. Focal says that the unique properties of flax give the speaker the ability to produce a more natural sound with rich midrange and clear bass.
The cone surround is another innovative design using ‘tuned mass damper’ technology. This is the same tech used to stabilize skyscrapers in earthquake-prone areas, so it is more than capable of handling all kinds of abuse without fail. The combination of a rigid cone and a balanced surround provide excellent response and a pure sound.
A central ogive surround allows for the natural dissipation of unwanted noise and helps to provide the full and rich sound you expect from Focal.
TAM Tweeters
Focal uses a unique “M” profile tweeter that offers a wide diffusion area. In other words, you don’t have to be as precise when trying to directionally install them to still benefit from a directional speaker. The angle-mount tweeters are easy to install and are specifically designed to provide off-axis listening typical of an in-car environment. The inverted dome design allows for harmonic balance and clean treble.
Crossover Network
The bi-amplified design of these speakers allows you to configure your setup to take full advantage of the high-quality crossovers included in the kit. The crossovers direct the proper frequencies to the proper speakers, so you don’t have overlap and wasted energy when a speaker attempts to recreate a frequency that it can’t.
Power Handling and Frequency Response
Focal rates these components at an RMS of 80 watts and a peak of 160 watts. The bi-amp design performs best when power is amplified. The aluminum and magnesium frame stabilizes and balances the speaker to prevent distortion.
Key Features
| Make | Focal |
| Model | PS 165 FXE |
| Size | 6.5″ Component |
| Power (RMS) | 80 watts |
| Power (Peak) | 160 watts |
| Frequency Response | 55 – 28,000 Hz |
| Sensitivity | 90.5 dB |
Pros
- Natural and warm sound unlike anything else on the market
- Audiophile grade stereo equipment
- Flax cone looks incredible
Cons
- Somewhat deep mounting distance may not work in some factory locations
Runner Up, Best Overall 6 1/2 Component Car Speaker
Hertz CK 165 F
Latest Prices
Hertz CK 165 F Review
Proving that high-end sound doesn’t require a massive price tag like the Focals, this component set from Hertz provides crystal clear sound across a full range of frequencies. Not only are these speakers an excellent way to improve the sound quality in your car, they also feature a slim profile making it easy to install in a wide variety of cars. We’ve had a lot of experience with Hertz. All the way back to the early 2000s when the Hi Energy lineup was our pick for a quality, high performance speaker that wouldn’t completely break the bank. They’ve been featured on our lists for years. The CK 165 F is our latest recommendation from the lineup at Hertz.
Flat-Profile Woofer Cone
The secret to these speakers is the unique flat profile of the mica-infused, semi-pressed paper cone. It provides plenty of rigidity for lower frequencies while requiring only one and three-quarter inches to mount. The cone is a good compromise between rigidity and lightness to give you excellent, warm sound.
Tweeter Technologies
The tweeter uses unique faceplate geometry to reproduce sound accurately in an off-axis environment common to your car. Like the Focals, this gives it a wider dispersion area. Hertz uses Finite Element Modeling to generate the perfect range of sounds to enhance your experience. It is a soft-dome fiber design measuring one inch in diameter.
Crossovers
The included crossovers make it simple to wire your speakers to get the ideal frequencies directed at the proper speaker. Low-loss capacitors and low resistance inductors use pure copper connections for the best sound and frequency response. The crossovers offer a tweeter balance switch for properly tuning the treble for your application. In our experience, this is necessary to prevent super harsh highs in most vehicles.
Power Handling and Frequency Response
Hertz designs these speakers to handle plenty of power but adding a car amplifier is almost always needed to get the most out of them. Hertz rates the woofers at an RMS of 90 watts with a peak of 270 watts. The speakers are intended to cover frequencies ranging from 65 Hz to 22.5k Hz.
Key Features
| Make | Hertz |
| Model | CK 165 F |
| Size | 6.5″ Component |
| Power (RMS) | 90 watts |
| Power (Peak) | 270 watts |
| Frequency Response | 65 – 22,500 Hz |
| Sensitivity | 93 dB |
Pros
- Excellent at providing good bass response
- Very good frequency response with low distortion at all volumes
- Clear tweeter audio that’s not too bright
Cons
- A little bass-heavy for some systems
- Cone material may not be as long-lasting as a poly or flax material
Best Hybrid 6.5″ Car Speaker
JL Audio C3-650
Latest Prices
JL Audio C3-650 Review
A component system is ideal when you want to elevate the treble of your music and separate it from the midrange and bass frequencies. Coaxial speakers are more practical from an installation perspective and when keeping the high-frequency tones close to the midrange frequencies is necessary.
The unique feature of this system that we love, and one of the main reasons why it’s on this list is the ability to convert from a coaxial design to a component design with ease. The tweeter can easily be located on the center of the woofer or removed and placed elsewhere for the perfect tuning. When mounting the tweeter as a component, an included phase plug balances the sound and frequencies out.
Woofer Design
JL Audio uses a tried-and-proven mica-injected polypropylene woofer cone that is rigid and lightweight to produce deep percussion notes accurately. The basket is specially designed to absorb vibration and prevent unwanted distortion.
Optimized Motor
Back in the 1990’s, JL Audio began experimenting with new dynamic modeling maps to produce a more enhanced listening experience. They called the technology Dynamic Motor Analysis, or DMA, and it produces a more stable and accurate frequency response. The process allows the sound engineers to significantly reduce distortion and improve overall performance, particularly when a speaker is driven hard and at higher volumes.
Cool Air Vented Frame
The C3-650 uses a patented extruded aluminum frame design that features air channels cast into the body direct air across the voice coil windings and into the spider cavity. The action of the spider helps to push air through the voice coil windings to keep everything cool.
Key Features:
| Make | JL Audio |
| Model | C3-650 |
| Size | 6.5″ Convertible Component |
| Power (RMS) | 75 watts |
| Power (Peak) | 150 watts |
| Frequency Response | 48 – 25,000 Hz |
| Sensitivity | 90 dB |
Pros
- Convertible design is one of the most versatile systems you’ll find
- Accurate and powerful frequency response is ideal for an amplified system
- Low distortion characteristics
Cons
- Some reviewers have mentioned harsh highs, however this can be eliminated via tuning in most applications.
- May require additional components for mounting tweeters
Best High Resolution 6 1/2 Car Speaker
Sony XS-162ES
Latest Prices
Sony XS-162ES Review
We recently did an in-depth review and installation of the recently released audiophile-grade speakers from Sony, upgrading a MK7.5 GTI stereo with all of the latest Sony equipment. The 162ES is the component version that uses the same cutting-edge technology and adds the flexibility of a remote tweeter. This line has become one of our favorites because it offers excellent performance at a reasonable price. They look great too.
Aramid Woofer Cone
Sony builds these speakers starting with an aramid fiber matrix that is filled with injected mica. The design allows for an incredibly lightweight surface that is also highly rigid. This material is known to produce more natural and deeper low frequencies while virtually eliminating distortion from unwanted vibrations.
A unique notched surround adds to the stability of the woofer cone and adds to the excursion abilities, giving the 162ES plenty of ability to power through even the most aggressive music with ease. A progressive rate height spider adds stability to the cone and ensures accurate woofer movement to further perfect the sound.
Tweeter Details
The tweeters are 1-inch synthetic fabric tweeters that are audiophile-grade. They produce frequencies beyond that of the human ear, so you’ll get every possible frequency from your music. You’ll particularly notice how clean and crisp the tweeters are when playing music with fine instrumentation.
Specialized Frame Technology
Sony is using a newly designed five-beam frame with the ES series that’s engineered to eliminate flex. Like many other features on this speaker, this helps to prevent unwanted distortion. The unique frame adds a ton of strength without adding bulk, so these speakers will still fit in most factory stock locations without modification.
| Make | Sony |
| Model | XS-162ES |
| Size | 6.5″ Component |
| Power (RMS) | 90 watts |
| Power (Peak) | 270 watts |
| Frequency Response | 40 – 40,000 Hz |
| Sensitivity | 89 dB |
Pros
- Among the best sounding speakers on the market at the price point
- Very low distortion even with maximum amplification and volume
- More compact than some designs
Cons
- Instructions for hooking up the crossover network are poorly explained
- Requires amplification to get the most from the speakers
Best 6.5″ Car Speaker for Bass
Rockford Fosgate T2652-S
Latest Prices
Rockford Fosgate T2652-S Quick Review
Rockford Fosgate's T2652-S is our top pick 6 1/2 component speaker for bass. Now, 6.5in speakers aren't exactly known for bass reproduction, but this component set features Rockford’s legendary VAST technology which allows the woofer cone to be up to 25% larger than other speakers. The larger the cone, the more efficient it covers lower frequencies and bass. Numerous other fun features set these carbon fiber poly cone woofers apart too, including the machined aluminum phase plug that improves dispersion while looking cool.
Tweeters are aluminum-dome and are somewhat oversized from factory component tweeters. The component kit includes a crossover network to allow bi-amplification. The entire package is supported from a billet aluminum frame that resists distortion while reducing weight.
Key Features
| Make | Rockford Fosgate |
| Model | T2652-S |
| Size | 6.5″ Component |
| Power (RMS) | 100 watts |
| Power (Peak) | 200 watts |
| Frequency Response | 55 – 22,000 Hz |
| Sensitivity | 89 dB |
Pros
- Excellent option for bass response
- Phase plug design is unique and very cool
Cons
- Tweeters can be too bright
- May require modification to install in some vehicles
- Crossovers are somewhat bulky
Best Factory Replacement 6.5″ Car Speaker
Infinity REF-6530cx
Latest Prices
Infinity REF-6530cx Quick Review
The Reference-series from Infinity are among the most popular choices on our list for replacing factory components. They offer an unbelievably good sound for a mid-price speaker while offering excellent, natural treble that isn’t washed out or harsh. On top of all that, they have a high-end appearance that steps up any interior space if you're planning on showing them off.
These speakers feature a polypropylene woofer cone and a high-roll surround that allows tremendous excursion while keeping the cone stable. Edge-driven tweeters are responsible for the unmistakable Reference sound. True 3-ohm speakers mean you’ll get the most out of a factory head unit while making them ideal for a custom installation as well.
Key Features
| Make | Infinity |
| Model | REF-6530cx |
| Size | 6.5″ Component |
| Power (RMS) | 90 watts |
| Power (Peak) | 270 watts |
| Frequency Response | 53 – 21,000 Hz |
| Sensitivity | 93 dB |
Pros
- Excellent sound quality for the price
- Natural sounding tweeters
- Great factory speaker upgrade or replacement choice
Cons
- Not as broad of a frequency response as some options
Best All Weather 6 1/2 inch Car Speakers
Polk Audio DB6502
Latest Prices
Polk Audio DB6502 Quick Review
Rich, clean, full-range – these are some of the terms that are describing Polk's DB6502 speakers across the web. Superseding their prior model, the DB6501 (who happened to be on our list prior), they come from a line of great performing components. What really stands out about this set in our opinion is their versatility. Polk made them to perform well in all environments. Whether you own a Jeep and like to play in the mud with the top off, or if you have a daily driver that just needs a great upgrade to the OEM speakers. They're an excellent performing set of speakers that are perfect for almost any application.
Did we mention that they're also water resistant too? With waterproof inner and outer surrounds, they have an IP55 rating, making them both dirt and water resistant. A polypropylene UV tolerant cone also makes it a great choice for outdoor use. We'd recommend these speakers for boats and cars alike. And for price tag, the DB6502 is by far one of the best value speakers on our list.
Couple key features worth noting:
- Water resistant – Marine IP55 certified
- Polypropylene UV tolerant cone
- Waterproof inner and outer sounds
- Non corrosive plastic speaker grilles included
| Make | Polk Audio |
| Model | DB6502 |
| Size | 6.5″ Component |
| Power (RMS) | 100 watts |
| Power (Peak) | 300 watts |
| Frequency Response | 35 – 23,000 Hz |
| Sensitivity | 92 dB |
Pros
- The speakers feature waterproof inner and outer surrounds
- Perfect for outdoor use and we recommend them for use on cars and boats alike
- Price tag is on the affordable end
- Great sound quality
Cons
- Might be a little more difficult to install than others
- Highs are a bit harsh
Looking for a different type of speaker? Check out these lists!
How We Chose
We're constantly updating our list of the best 6 1/2 inch component car speakers. In our search, we combine reviews across the industry with first-hand tests and opinions in order to assemble our list. There are some key elements that we take into consideration when we rate and review speakers. This includes:
- Style (Looks, Design) – Who doesn't like a good looking speaker?
- Power Ratings (Peak, RMS) – RMS power is a critical component.
- Price – We look for the best price to feature ratio.
- Quality – Materials used, manufacturer reputation, etc.
- Online Reviews – From multiple vendors such as Sonic Electronix, Crutchfield, Amazon and others.
The result from our research, testing and opinion is the latest list of top rated and reviewed 6.5 components for your car or truck (we also assembled a list of best marine speakers separately). We also like to provide price comparisons from vendors to try to get you the best price for your products. Our price comparisons typically update every 24 hours so what you see might not be exactly what it is at the vendor, but it should be pretty close! In the end though the best car speaker is one that meets your specific needs, this includes compatibility with your car.
Common Speaker Terms & Ratings
When choosing the Best 6 1/2″ Component Car Speakers, CarAudioNow takes several criteria into consideration. Lets define a few common criteria and terms that are used when rating a speaker:
Power Handling: Power handling is the measurement a manufacture gives to rate how much power a speaker can handle and operate at. It is given by two measurements, RMS and Peak (or MAX). RMS Power rating is the amount of power the speaker handles continuously. The Peak Power rating is the amount of power a speaker can handle in short bursts. When comparing speakers, RMS Power is the more relevant and important rating to look at.
Sensitivity: Speaker sensitivity rating is a measurement of the amount of sound the speaker will emit from the power it’s given. The higher the sensitivity, the more efficient the speaker is with the power it’s given. For lower powered systems, you want a higher sensitivity rating. For a higher powered system, you want a lower sensitivity rating. Lower sensitivity rated speakers are meant to handle higher power.
Frequency Range: Frequency range is the frequencies that the speaker emits sound at. It's typically measured in Hz. The ranges show from a low frequency to high, for example: 20 – 22,000 (22k) Hz. This measure how low and high the speaker can emit sound at.
To help you compare these three key speaker ratings for the products in our comparison, we've assembled a few charts:
Power Handling (Watts)
Sensitivity (dB)
Frequency Range (Hz)
Speaker Design & Materials
Woofer: The speaker woofer determines the responsiveness, and quality of the speaker. The stiffer and lightweight the material used, the more effective the speaker is. Polypropylene is a common material used for the cone. In addition, woven fabrics such as kevlar are used in higher quality speakers. Aluminum and titanium are also used in higher end speakers.
Woofer Surrounding: The woofer surround also is an important aspect of the speaker system. It can effect the sound as well. Durable, lightweight, and free moving materials are used to allow the woofer to move with as little energy possible. The material is essential for a long lasting speaker too. As speakers get older and used, humidity levels and wear-and-tear can crack and break the woofer surround. Rubber surrounding is typically the most long lasting an high performing. Foam an cloth surroundings are found on less expensive car speakers, with lower performance and shorter life spans.
Crossovers: When you purchase a component car speaker set, a crossover is typically a part of the package. External crossovers are typically used to lessen the amount of distortion a speaker has. They do this by separating the frequency inputs. Signals can cross through coated wiring and cause distortion. So an external crossover system will limit this.
How to Install 6.5 Inch Component Car Speakers
We know you want the best 6.5 component car speakers, the only question is, how to install them?
The thought of installing a car speakers can be quite intimidating. They're built into doors, sometimes the dashboard and maybe the rear parcel shelf. How do you get the old ones out and replacements in without damaging all that trim? And if you're upgrading to a component system, you'll need to think about how you'll remove the A-Pillar trim to access the tweeters or the dash covering.
Fact is, car speaker installation is easier than it looks. All you need are a few simple tools and a little knowledge. We'll provide that know-how here, hopefully inspiring you to tackle this not-too-difficult project. Check out our How To for Installing Car Speakers to prep yourself for your upcoming speaker upgrade.
FAQ
Top brands for 6.5″ component speakers include JL Audio, Focal, Hertz, Rockford Fosgate, Kicker, and Sony. Among others. Most of which are among our list of recommended products!
Component car speakers have separate components – woofers, tweeters, and crossovers – which allow for greater customization and overall sound quality compared to traditional full-range and coaxial speakers speakers.
A 6 1/2″ component speaker has a smaller woofer and is designed for cars with tighter spaces, while a 6×9″ component speaker has a larger woofer and typically provides more powerful bass. 6×9 inch speakers also require a little more room to install naturally.
The crossover in a component car speaker set is responsible for directing certain frequency ranges to the appropriate driver (woofer or tweeter). This ensures clear and balanced sound, and also prevents damage to the various components.
Yes, component car speakers can be installed in any car as long as there is sufficient space and the correct wiring. We recommend installing the same dimension speakers that your vehicle has from the factory, when possible. But in theory, a 6 1/2″ component speaker can be installed in any vehicle with a little work.
To determine whether your car is compatible with a 6 1/2″ component speaker(s), you'll need to check the size of your car's speaker openings and the available mounting depth. We have put together a database of car speakers sizes for you to check your year, make and model to help determine if a 6 1/2″ speaker will fit in your car. We also recommend verifying the power handling capability of the speakers and the car's audio system to ensure compatibility.
Why were the Morel Speakers not tested? I have heard they are at the top of the list when it comes to quality sounds.
At first i was going to go with focal now i think i will buy hertz165.any suggestions wich subwoofer would set them off and how strong of a amp i would need.thank you jimmy
Hi Jimmy,
How many are you planning on purchasing and powering with an amplifier?
Hertz are really tough to beat. Never got a chance to play with any Morel gear, but I have always read good things about them. Dayton audio should be on the list too, they have some awesome sounding speakers esp for the price. Once i get my amplifier replacement settled with AudioSavings, Im going to try to do a custom 2 way build using raw drivers from dayton, peerless etc. Should be a fun project. BTW dont ever buy anything gear from AudioSavings either on ebay or direct. They have screwed me on so much gear. Always excuses and problems with there warehouse, or website. Never honor warranty and always make up bs about replacements. Be Aware. They have a house brand “Rockville Audio” which should be avoided at all cost. Total garbage.
We codul’ve done with that insight early on.
Tengo un Morel Dotech y suena mejor que los JL audio de gama alta y que el Focal. Por qué no inclueron a Morel en sus pruebas?
I haveca set of mtx and was thinking of upgrading to a set of Focal 165KRX2 6.5″ Split Speakers are the hertz splits better orvworse compared tonthe focals
Thank you for this article. I’ve tried HERTZ HSK 165XL in my car and it’s really great speaker and gave me an effective sound system in the car.
I was wondering why Morel wasn’t here either? Some of the best speakers I’ve heard. Hertz are great as well but the morel seem to not have the “forced” in your face sound they are more realistic hard to explain. Why no Morel??
Hi Mike,
Morel is a highly regarded brand for speakers, we agree. We actually have them rated very highly in another review list, Best High End 6.5″ Component Car Speakers. You can find this here: https://www.caraudionow.com/best-high-end-6-5-inch-component-car-speakers/. When we aggregate our lists of best products, we take price into consideration. Typically, Morel speakers are a bit higher in price, which is why we placed them on our other list. Hope this helps.
Don’t waste you money on a new pair of speakers…. you get more mileage from a cheap pair of sneakers.
I have Rainbow profi speakers throughout and if you strive for exceptional highs and Crystal clear detail for rock and classical music, choose Rainbow
This may sound foolish, but alpine type-r didn’t make the list?
I know right?
I have had excellent results with the installation of Focal K2 components. I chose this brand due to their ability to handle large amounts of power and provide an excellent well balanced sound. A bit on the pricey side however reliability and quality of sound takes precedence when selecting components. You will not be disappointed.
What do you think of the infinity kappa perfect 600 component set ?
Very informative. I will look at hertz for my wife’s RRover. Any suggestions on Amps to power 2 pairs of hertz components in RR?
Would these speaker ratings apply to installing on a 2015 Road Glide, Harley Davidson?
Hi, I have a few questions…some background info…1998 Mercedes E320, W210, base model sedan (non-Bose system)…2 speakers, possibly tweeters near mirrors, and on both sides of the front dash, not sure what to do with these speakers, replacing these is not mentioned when installing an aftermarket system, and Crutchfield doesn’t list anything for them. In the front doors I can place 6.5″ speakers, the rear doors supposedly can only take 3.5″ speakers, and the rear deck supposedly has 6.5″ or 7″ from factory. Crutchfield suggested 6.5″, same as for front doors. Someone in a blog stated that they fit 2 8″ sub-woofers into the factory mounts, I lost the link to ask, and not sure if it’s possible.
1) Our car factory speaker system ran on 4 Ohms. Should I go with a 2 Ohms. system, stick with the 4 Ohms. system?
2) What do you think of speakers that can be switched from 2 – 4 Ohms.?
3) If I went with a component system, which has crossovers, do I need to get an amp. to power them, or would they work fine without an amp for now, even though I plan on adding one in the future?
4) I’m particular to brands like…Pioneer, Infinity, and Alpine, which would you suggest for both, the best overall 6.5″ speakers, for both coaxial & component? Take note…I want the complete sound system to be from the same brand!
5) I’ve seen 2-way, 3-way, and even 4-way speakers…what would work best with this vehicle for the best sound & bass possible?
6) this car is pretty solid in terms of little rattle, but if I was to roll on some sound deadener, what places are suggested just as a precaution?
Any help is greatly appreciated…thanks. 🙂
Hello. Thanks for your comment. If your car is wired and configured for a 4-ohm speaker, I would not advise replacing it with a 2-ohm. Also, you shouldn’t require an amp to power your tweeters if you get a component system. The crossovers utilize one source of power to distribute the power to both the woofer and tweeter.
Of your listed 2-way, 3-way etc speakers, component speaker low frequencies are typically are not impacted regardless if they are a 2, 3 or 4-way since each speaker is a dedicated speaker. A good example of this is the JL Audio C5-653 which as a woofer, mid-range speaker and tweeter that are each separate. For component systems, having dedicated speakers for different frequency ranges like this helps to separate out frequencies that may not be optimal for the speaker size. For example highs won’t be passed through the woofer at all and lows won’t be passed through the tweeters.
And as for deadener, every car is different but door panels and trunk would be my first spot to place deadener if you have rattles.
Speakers all tend to sound similar and depending on the brand, pricing may differ significantly but at the end of the day, it has to sound good to the listener. You should not upgrade speakers because somebody has x brand so you want to keep up the trend. Regardless of the speakers you purchase, its the installation that will make the speakers sound good, and proper installation should also include sound deadening to the doors, correct speaker bracket, and foam surround around the speaker trim that will come in contact with the plastic speaker door panel. Crossover module should be placed between the plastic door panel and wires secured so they don’t obstruct power winder mechanism. Speaker wires should also be secured so they don’t affect power window mechanism and heat shrink or appropriate tubing installed to protect speaker wires that run from the cross over module, to the woofer and tweeter. Tweeters should also be checked to ensure it is secure and angled correctly to provide good staging / imaging effect. Lastly power rating of the speaker can be driven minimal power rating and up to twice the power rating but the amplifier gain must be set correctly so it can provide years of enjoyment. Lastly, crossover setting on the head unit should be set to 80Hz (being 6.5 inch) or lower if possible and the crossover slope should be minimal 12db / 18db. 24db would be best but not likely with todays after market head units. When used with a additional subwoofer(s) should be set with low crossover slope such as 12 or 18db with a cut off frequency of 80hz or lower. With the amplifier gains set for front speakers and subwoofer, it should create a good sound with the low frequencies only visible when the bass hits, not over-bearing bass that the sound stage is moved to the rear of the vehicle.
Hi Ron. Thanks for your comment! I couldn’t agree more. At the end of the day, it’s what sounds good to YOU. And a combination of quality speakers, proper power, installation and TUNING.
My head unit cuts on and off. When I connect my iPhone to usb it cuts it off. And sounds comes and goes