There’s no escaping the fact that factory car speakers are subpar, and investing in high-quality speakers isn’t inexpensive. I’ve traveled in many old, worn-out cars and even one that was in good shape just once. No matter what the car is, the factory speakers have consistently performed poorly, but I’ve discovered a few methods that can certainly enhance in-car audio without costing anywhere near the price of a new amplifier and speaker.
Reasons Factory Car Speakers Fall Short
Most individuals don’t think about sound systems when they buy a car. Priorities usually include safety and fuel efficiency, while the audio system is often overlooked. Aware of this tendency, some car manufacturers may cut expenses by using the lowest quality speakers available, leading to sound that is harsh, unbalanced, and muddy.
Even though speakers might not be a priority during the car-buying process, after making a purchase, you quickly recognize how often you engage with the stereo. It’s at that moment you start to think, “I wish I could enhance this experience.”
Many share this sentiment but end up accepting inferior audio. In my case, I grew tired of listening to unpleasant sound quality and decided to take control with a few strategies that generally cost between $20 and $50, and many of which were free.
I’m not claiming that these techniques will transform your audio experience to the level of premium speakers, but they can lead to a more balanced and clear sound while driving.
Utilize High-Resolution Audio Formats
High-resolution, or lossless, audio formats are files that have greater bit rates, which means they undergo less compression and maintain more of the original audio information. In simpler terms, hi-res audio offers more detail and depth, resulting in clearer and more realistic sound.
You can either download a playlist of hi-res audio tracks to listen to during your drives or stream high-resolution audio directly from your device via services like Apple Music and SoundCloud. However, keep in mind that not every streaming platform provides lossless audio (particularly pointing at you, Spotify).
Soundproof Your Vehicle
Due to the way cars are constructed, they contain cracks, gaps, and holes that allow external sounds to enter. This outside noise permeates the cabin, muffling and disrupting the speaker sound, particularly in city environments. Moreover, loose components such as floor mats, door panels, and vents can cause rattling or vibrating noises that overshadow the stereo.
To minimize this unwanted noise, you essentially need to soundproof your vehicle. A good first step is to buy sound-deadening car mats, which can significantly diminish rattling sounds from the engine and the car’s undercarriage, like the axle and exhaust.
It’s essential to explore your choices and choose what best meets your needs and budget. Personally, I believe you should avoid rubber and asphalt sound-deadening mats and materials because they tend to have low heat resistance.
Substitute the Aux Cord with a USB
Everyone enjoys sharing the aux connection, but these cables often perform poorly in terms of audio quality compared to other available options. Switching your aux cable for a digital cable, like a USB, can remove interference since they’re (virtually) not affected by outside electrical disturbances. From my experience, many aux cables create electromagnetic interference, resulting in that annoying humming or hissing noise.
Another reason to consider using a USB is that it transmits all digital audio data directly to the car’s head unit, removing any dependency on the amplifier in your device. Aux cords rely on a phone’s built-in amplifier, which, to be honest, is usually not very good and can introduce white noise, particularly in lower-end devices.
However, if you’re set on keeping an analog connection, a shielded aux cable can help reduce interference to some extent. Just ensure that whatever replacement cable you choose is not a low-quality budget option because, based on my experience, the quality of the parts and construction greatly influences the overall audio output.
Adjust EQ to Minimize Distortion (On Both Phone and Car)
Sometimes, the issue lies with your sound settings. Most vehicles come equipped with basic EQ controls that allow you to modify bass, mid-range, and treble levels. Experiment with these settings, preferably using music that highlights various instruments across different frequency ranges. I enjoy jazz and bluegrass, as they often feature bands with multi-instrumentalists and less percussion that can muddle the sound.
Tweak the settings to your preference, and if your phone has its own EQ settings, adjust those as well for further fine-tuning. Overall, getting to know your car’s EQ settings can really assist in eliminating muddled or tinny sound frequencies.
Change Your Car’s Speakers
The speakers in your car are clearly the most crucial element in determining the audio quality of your vehicle. If you don’t own a high-end car, it’s likely that the factory-installed speakers won’t be the greatest. Luckily, you can find affordable replacement speakers that can significantly enhance the sound quality. Quality new speakers for your entire car can be purchased for around one hundred dollars, including installation costs. Make this upgrade first and see if it resolves your audio issues.
Install a Subwoofer
If new speakers alone aren’t enough, the next step is to add a classic subwoofer. The advantage of subwoofers is that they come with a built-in amplifier, so you won’t need to invest in a bunch of additional equipment if you’re on a tight budget. Numerous online reviews for subwoofers are available, and the team at www.autoguysland.com has put together their rankings for the top twelve options on the market. Explore these reviews to find the highest-rated subwoofer that fits within your financial constraints. Like the new speakers, you can acquire a quality subwoofer for around one hundred dollars, which can be positioned on the back shelf of your car or under the seats.
Upgrade the Head Unit
Many older vehicles particularly feature a head unit that is outdated in terms of modern technology. Not only do these head units provide minimal sound quality and adjustment features, but they also appear quite dull. You have a multitude of options when it comes to head units that can enhance both the sound and look of your car, with prices starting as low as thirty dollars. Advanced models will allow you to connect your phone via Bluetooth, enabling you to play music directly from your device’s library or through services like Spotify or YouTube.
Choose the Right Sound Settings
Configuring the appropriate sound settings through your equalizer can greatly improve audio quality, yet many people struggle with this. It is common for individuals to instinctively boost the bass, but without quality sound equipment, this can create muddiness and strain on your speakers. Save bass boosts for after you’ve upgraded your speakers and subwoofer. Instead, lower the treble and mid-range frequencies, which will yield a similar effect to increasing the bass without risking damage to your speakers, and then simply increase the volume.
Add an Amplifier
If your goal is to enhance the bass yet you don’t have a subwoofer, another possibility is to integrate a separate amplifier. A good amplifier will not only allow you to play music at higher volumes but also enhance sound clarity. Amplifiers help deliver clearer signals to your vehicle’s speakers, resulting in improved sound quality. As previously mentioned, since subwoofers include built-in amplifiers, it is often more beneficial to invest in a subwoofer rather than a standalone amplifier.
Only Use High-Quality Music Files
The music files you use can have a significant effect on the performance of your car’s sound system. Compressed Mp3 files may sound acceptable through headphones, but they often come across as dull and weak on a quality sound system. Be sure to utilize high-quality music files to give your car’s audio setup an advantage.
Enhancing your car audio can be straightforward and cost-effective. Enjoying your favorite songs while driving will definitely make the experience much more enjoyable. Ensure that your car is equipped with a suitable sound system and speakers and that you only play high-quality music files. Follow this guide, and you’ll soon enjoy crystal-clear sound.
These are a few affordable and straightforward methods to enhance sound quality in your car, but if you’re looking for a substantial upgrade, consulting with a car stereo specialist about installing new equipment or getting professional soundproofing done can significantly improve your vehicle’s acoustics.
Would you prefer a two-way or three-way car speaker?
Terms like “2-way” or “3-way” refer to the two or three drivers that compose each speaker. These drivers can consist of woofers, tweeters, mid-range drivers, and/or super-tweeters. Many people typically choose to replace their existing speakers with a similar-sized (but clearly superior) car speaker kit. Essentially, you can upgrade your car’s current audio system with significantly better speakers specifically designed to fit in the same areas.
When considering the specifications for a car speaker kit, pay attention to the following:
- Power-handling: There’s a broad range here, but focus on the continuous (or RMS) power handling. Ensure that your power source (whether it is a car radio or amplifier) can provide enough power to drive the speakers effectively. Aim to find a match that’s as close as possible, although it doesn’t need to be exactly the same.
- Sensitivity: This measures how efficiently a car speaker operates. Speakers rated at 90dB or higher require less power to perform well. Conversely, a sensitivity rating below 90dB indicates that they need more power, and you might want to consider acquiring a car amplifier to supply the necessary power.
- Mounting depth: This pertains to the amount of space the speaker will occupy when installed in your vehicle. You can add spacers or mounting brackets to accommodate nearly any speaker in any car door. However, if you prefer to avoid that, measure the mounting depth of your current speakers and ensure the new ones are either the same depth or less. To determine mounting depth, simply measure from the back of the mounting flange (the metal ring surrounding the speaker, where the screw holes are) to the furthest point of the speaker. If you’re unsure of the exact depth, always round up — never down.
The materials used for speakers are important.
The right components in your car audio system significantly influence the sound quality.
Woofer cones – responsible for bass and some mid-range sounds – are typically made from paper or polypropylene, but premium materials like Kevlar® or flax are sometimes utilized as well.
Tweeters – which create high-frequency sounds – are generally constructed from synthetic materials, metals, or fabric (such as silk). While other premium materials can be used, these three are the most common. Tweeters highlight fine details like voices and solo violins, so it’s essential to choose something that sounds pleasing to your ears.
Metal tweeters provide a very detailed response and great clarity, but some people might perceive them as too harsh. Silk dome tweeters have a very smooth and lifelike sound, but they may not achieve the same clarity as metal tweeters.
Although the numerous car speaker brands each have their unique methods, any of them will deliver a better, richer, and deeper sound experience compared to the audio system originally installed in your car. Some options can be expensive, while others are more budget-friendly. However, try not to feel overwhelmed!
Consider adding Dynamat for improved sound quality.
To help contain the music inside your car and minimize external noise, we highly recommend sound deadening your vehicle with a product called Dynamat. Dynamat is a sound-insulating material placed inside car doors between new speakers and sheet metal. It has been a trusted choice for years, and we appreciate it because it greatly reduces road noise coming from outside – making your vehicle quiet (depending on how much you use).
Furthermore, Dynamat ensures that more of your music stays inside the vehicle for you to enjoy, while minimizing what is audible to those outside.
Most vehicles are equipped with a head unit/receiver that allows for basic equalization adjustments. Equalization, accomplished via an equalizer or EQ, enables you to modify the amplitude (loudness) of specific frequencies, allowing you to tailor the overall sound to your preferences, the genre, or the car’s acoustics. In simpler terms, EQ lets you fine-tune the highs and lows of the music for a better result.
Equalizers can be parametric, in which a knob adjusts a certain range of frequencies, or graphic, which permits more precise control across individual frequencies spread over a curve. Parametric EQ is easier to navigate, whereas graphic EQ can be intricate and caters to advanced users.
While EQ settings can be subjective, many people tend to appreciate a balanced sound where all frequencies are clearly audible without any overpowering others. Here are a few tips:
- More adjustments don’t guarantee better results. Some individuals raise all frequencies to maximum levels in their EQ settings, which doesn’t help; it simply amplifies everything, potentially leading to distortion.
- Consider the music genre. For instance, if you listen to classical music, you can afford to lower low frequencies, while the opposite might apply if you enjoy hip-hop. Some receivers offer genre presets; use those as a starting point.
- The size of the car is a factor. In smaller vehicles, overly boosted bass can easily become overwhelming, so don’t hesitate to reduce a frequency and experiment to find what works best.
Audio Glossary
Equaliser – Known as EQ, this device enables you to modify the amplitude (volume) of specific frequencies to customize the overall sound to your preference. Equalisers can either be parametric, where a knob adjusts a particular frequency range, or graphic, which provides more detailed control across a frequency curve. Parametric EQ is simpler to operate, while graphic EQ is more intricate and designed for experienced users.
Power – Similar to car engines, sound systems also have a limit to their power output. Generally speaking, increased power leads to higher volume, but this also hinges on the efficiency of each component within the entire setup.
Signal – The sound produced by a sound system originates as an electrical output, or signal, from the head unit, which plays your media source. This signal travels to an amplifier that amplifies it, and then it moves to the loudspeakers, which convert this amplified signal into audible sound.
Tweeter – These are smaller speakers, typically under four inches in diameter, that manage higher frequency sounds. The term “chirping” refers to these high-frequency sounds, which is why they are named tweeters. In cars, tweeters are often positioned in the A-pillar to face the listeners directly.
Woofer – This is the common perception of a speaker, characterized by a larger cone shape, usually exceeding four inches in diameter. Woofers are responsible for mid-range and lower frequencies, which is why they are often packaged together with tweeters.
Subwoofer – This type of speaker is designed for bass and sub-bass frequencies, which are lower than those managed by woofers. Consequently, subwoofers typically have a unique construction and are housed in a box to enhance sound wave control.
Can You Get Better Bass in a Car Without an Amp or Subwoofer?
The stark reality is that achieving substantial bass in a sound system without a subwoofer and amplifier is quite unlikely. The limitation lies in car speakers, even top-tier models, being too small, and the built-in car stereo amplifiers lacking the power necessary for deep, distortion-free bass.
However, upgrading the factory-installed speakers can still lead to notable improvements. While merely replacing the speakers comes with definite constraints regarding your expectations, the superior materials found in aftermarket speakers can significantly enhance both overall sound quality and bass performance.
The main challenge is that even the finest coaxial speakers cannot compare to an actual subwoofer, so while a simple speaker upgrade can result in better bass response, it’s essential to manage your expectations. While sound quality is likely to increase, expect that the bass will not reach booming levels.
Check Your Bass and Treble Tone Controls First
Prior to investing in any bass enhancements, it’s crucial to ensure that there aren’t simpler issues with your car radio. For example, it’s possible that the tone control settings were inadvertently adjusted. If you notice a reduction in bass compared to the past, it’s likely these settings have changed.
Tone controls can appear as physical knobs or sliders on your car radio, or you may need to navigate a menu to locate them. If everything else fails, consult your owner’s manual for guidance on car radio tone controls.
If you discover that the treble is set too high or the bass too low, making some adjustments might provide satisfactory results. In certain situations, adjusting the fade to favor the rear speakers could also be beneficial, as they often possess larger speaker cones. Nevertheless, without a subwoofer, simply increasing the bass tone control can only be effective to a certain extent.
The Cheapest Way to Get Better Bass in Your Car
If your car radio, or head unit, lacks line-level outputs, the most cost-effective and straightforward method to enhance your bass is to install a powered subwoofer with speaker-level inputs.
The distinction between line-level and speaker-level outputs is that the signal from speaker-level outputs has already been amplified within the head unit. Feeding that signal into a standard external amplifier would produce distortion, leading to subpar bass quality.
With a powered subwoofer that features speaker-level inputs, you won’t have to be as concerned with distortion. Purchasing one of these units can often be cheaper than acquiring both a separate amplifier and subwoofer, and they tend to be straightforward to install.
Can You Install a Powered Subwoofer Yourself?
The fundamental steps to install a powered subwoofer unit include connecting to your speaker wires, separating them, and linking them to the sub. Additionally, this unit needs to be connected to your car’s electrical system, which involves running a hot lead from the battery or fuse box.
Overall, installing a powered subwoofer is slightly more complex than upgrading a head unit or replacing speakers. If you’re comfortable with this type of work, the primary challenge will be running a hot wire, which can potentially be tricky.
Aside from simple installation, the advantages of using a powered subwoofer that accepts speaker-level inputs include not needing to upgrade your head unit and achieving significantly improved bass response. While the sound quality may not match that of a dedicated subwoofer amplifier and a separate sub, you will still enjoy deep, resonant bass at a lower cost and with less hassle.
Are Dedicated Subwoofer Amps Essential for Quality Bass?
Though a powered sub can effectively meet budget constraints, selecting a high-quality amplifier and pairing it with the appropriate subwoofer generally produces even superior outcomes.
The primary concern is that if you’re not planning on upgrading your head unit, you may still need to opt for a subwoofer amplifier with speaker-level inputs. Alternative options include using a speaker-to-line-level converter or upgrading to a head unit that supports line-level outputs.
That being said, the most reliable way to achieve substantial bass in your vehicle is by choosing a dedicated subwoofer amplifier. Typically, the best amplifier for bass in your car is a mono, single-channel amplifier that is specifically designed for subwoofers.
While you technically can connect any amplifier to power a subwoofer, it’s more intricate than merely connecting the components. If the amplifier lacks the capacity to drive the subwoofer, it might enter protect mode or fail outright.
Finding the Best Amplifier for Bass in Your Vehicle
When selecting a subwoofer amplifier, it’s crucial to consider the rest of your sound system to prevent overpowering it.
To do this, you’ll want to match the subwoofer amplifier to a general range based on the root-mean-square (RMS) output of the amplifier relative to the type of car stereo system present in your vehicle.
You can explore this topic as thoroughly as you wish to optimize your setup before making a purchase, but a useful guideline is:
- Approximately 50-200 watts RMS for factory head units.
- Between 200-300 watts RMS for aftermarket head units.
- Between 5-10 times the watts RMS per channel if the system is already equipped with an amplifier.
It’s extremely important to research both your new amplifier and subwoofer simultaneously. While subwoofer amplifiers are built to accommodate a wide variety of subs, you can’t assume that any particular sub and amplifier will be compatible.
Generally, you should select an amplifier with an RMS output rating that is equal to or slightly higher than the rating of your sub. Also, ensuring that the sub and amplifier are impedance-matched is critical, which means verifying that the impedance of the subwoofer is compatible with the amplifier you select. For example, if you choose a 1-ohm subwoofer, you’ll need to pair it with an amplifier that can manage a 1-ohm load.
This is relatively easy if you’re adding just a single sub, but it can become more complex when wiring multiple subs to one amplifier.
The Importance of Subwoofer Enclosures and Placement
In addition to adequately tuning and adjusting your subwoofer amplifier, several other elements can influence the bass quality in your audio system. For instance, relocating a subwoofer within your vehicle, or even changing its orientation, can have a significant impact.
In some situations, you might find that reversing the polarity of the subwoofer speaker wires can enhance performance. This essentially involves swapping the connections between the amplifier and the sub. However, you’ll need to retune the system after implementing such a change.
If you’re still unhappy with the bass quality in your vehicle, your only remaining options are to consult a professional for tuning or to upgrade to a more powerful amplifier and subwoofer or a couple of subwoofers. Seeking assistance from a professional is advisable if you’re not completely confident with the tuning process since they possess the necessary expertise and tools to ensure the job is done correctly.
One of the key advantages of enhancing your vehicle’s audio system is the enhanced sound quality. If you’re driving an older used car with a dated stereo, you might have realized that the audio quality is just mediocre. Upgrading to superior car stereo speakers will enable you to experience music in a whole new way. You’ll be able to notice intricate details in songs that you previously overlooked, and the soundstage will feel more immersive and authentic.
Enhanced Volume
Upgrading your vehicle’s audio system can also amplify the volume capacity without compromising sound quality. With a more robust amplifier and high-quality speakers, you can relish music at greater volumes without any distortion or crackling. This is especially important for those who appreciate music with dynamic elements like strong bass.
Personalization Options
When considering a car audio upgrade, you have the option to tailor it to your individual preferences. You can select the speakers, subwoofers, and amplifiers that you desire. Furthermore, you can determine the overall sound profile of your system. Whether you prefer a more balanced audio experience or something richer in bass, you can design a system that fits your preferences.
Enhanced Connectivity
Most contemporary audio systems come equipped with Bluetooth, allowing you to stream music wirelessly from your smartphone or tablet. Nonetheless, older factory-installed systems may lack this feature. Upgrading your audio system will enable you to connect your devices effortlessly, making it simpler to enjoy your favorite tracks on the go. However, installing car speakers can be somewhat challenging; here’s a guide on how to upgrade car speakers without any difficulties.
Additional Features
Many aftermarket car audio systems offer extra features to enhance your driving experience. For instance, some models include built-in navigation, which assists you in reaching your destination more conveniently. Others feature advanced equalizers that allow you to fine-tune the audio to your preferences. Additionally, some systems come with voice recognition technology that lets you control your music without taking your hands off the steering wheel.
Moreover, a user-friendly audio system can help manage a stressful drive. Upgrading it can make your used car more comfortable while providing you with an enjoyable ride.
Higher Resale Value
Ultimately, enhancing your car’s audio system can boost the resale value of your vehicle. If you plan to sell your car in the future, a high-quality audio system can make it more appealing to potential buyers. Many car enthusiasts are willing to pay a premium for a vehicle with a top-notch audio system, especially if it’s an aftermarket system that has been professionally installed.
Enhanced Audio Clarity for Phone Calls
Numerous car audio systems feature a hands-free calling capability, allowing you to answer calls while driving. However, factory-installed systems can sometimes deliver poor audio quality, making it challenging to hear the person on the other end. Upgrading your audio system can significantly enhance the audio clarity of your phone calls, facilitating easier communication while on the road.
Increased Longevity of the Audio System
By upgrading to a high-quality car audio system, you are investing in a product that is designed to endure for a long time. Factory-installed systems are often not built to last, and their components can deteriorate or malfunction quickly. A premium aftermarket system will likely provide longer-lasting reliability and a dependable audio solution.
