Best 6.5 inch Speakers for Bass and Sound Quality
Are you thinking about replacing the lackluster stock speakers in your vehicle? A solid pair of 6.5 speakers can take your music from drab to dramatic. Still, with hundreds of speakers on the market, it can be difficult to hone in on just one. To help you out, we’ve chosen 10 best 6.5 speakers to review. Not only that, but we’ve brought you the answers to all the most frequently asked questions.
Are you tired of listening to those terrible factory speakers in your vehicle or are you looking to step up your audio game with a high-quality component speaker system? If so, our list of best 6.5 car speakers we will put an end to your dilemma. We agree that the world of car audio can seem like a convoluted mess, especially if you are new to it. However, we believe that our article will remove any confusion and help you zero in on the best set of car speakers which comply with your needs. Whether you are an audiophile or a newbie, our list of Best Car Speakers has something for everyone.
Moreover, our list has car speaker systems that will fit everyone’s budget. So read along to find out everything you need to know about 6.5 car speakers. You might also like to read our guideline of best 6×9 speakers, best 6×8 speakers for more information. You might also like to read our guideline of best 6×9 speakers, best 6×8 speakers for more knowledge.
Please note: if a quality set of component speakers is what you’re after, be sure to check out our component speaker buying guide here.
Best 6.5 Speakers for Car
| 6.5 Speakers | RMS Watts | Speaker Type | Sensitivity (dB) | Impedance (Ohms) | Frequency Response | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Kicker 43DSC6504 | 60 | 2-way | 90 | 4 | 40 – 20k Hz | Check Price |
 | Infinity REF-6522EX | 55 | 2-way | 93 | 3 | 57 – 21k Hz | Check Price |
 | Rockford Fosgate PPS4-6 | 100 | 1-way | 92.5 | 4 | 85 – 5k Hz | Check Price |
 | JBL CLUB6520 | 50 | 2-way | 92 | 3 | 55 – 20k Hz | Check Price |
 | HERTZ HCX 165 | 100 | 2-way | 92 | 4 | 55 – 22k Hz | Check Price |
 | Rockford Fosgate R165X3 | 45 | 3-way | 91 | 4 | 52 – 20k Hz | Check Price |
 | Kenwood KFC-1665S | 30 | 2-way | 92 | 4 | 35 – 22k Hz | Check Price |
 | Alpine R-S65 | 100 | 2-way | 88 | 4 | 65 – 29k Hz | Check Price |
 | Polk DB652 | 100 | 2-way | 92 | 4 | 40 – 22k Hz | Check Price |
 | Pioneer TS-D65F | 90 | 2-way | 85 | 4 | 32 – 49k Hz | Check Price |
#1. Kicker 43DSC6504 – Best Coaxial Speakers for Stock Head Unit
The Kicker 240-watt two-way coaxial car speakers offer a huge improvement in sound quality with factory radio without an amp at a reasonable price. The sound is crisp and well-balanced thanks to the 6 1/2-inch polypropylene woofers and PEI domed tweeters. Not to mention, the speakers have a slim profile that fits well in nearly any vehicle.
The speakers have a 90-decibel sensitivity and a frequency range between 40 and 20,000 hertz. What’s more, they have an impedance of 4 ohms and a power range up to 60 watts RMS. On top of that, the speakers come with modern grilles and included new screws, clips and wire connectors. Overall, these 6 1/2-inch beasts are a great replacement option for muffled factory-installed speakers.
Pros
- The sound is much better than the factory speakers
- PEI domed tweeter for clear crisp highs
- Polyproplene woofer for great mid bass
- Reasonable price
Cons
- Push on connectors too tight and would bend the metal tabs on the speaker
- May trouble lining up attachment screws with original holes
Read Verified Customer Reviews
#2. Infinity REF-6522EX – Shallow Mount Car Speakers for Door
The Infinity REF-6522EX shallow mount speakers are great for replacing worn factory 6 1/2-inch speakers. These impressive noisemakers boast polypropylene woofer cones with hi-roll rubber surrounds. Not to mention, they feature 1-inch edge-driven textile dome tweeters with two different types of mounting brackets. The speakers have a power handling of 55 watts of average power and 164 watts of peak power.
The speakers’ cones are separate from the tweeters and magnets, making for crystal-clear audio. The bass has a solid punch too. The speakers are incredibly easy to install and have a slim profile to fit the small door. These speakers can handle both low and high volume levels with stock stereo systems. As such, they are a great one-and-done audio improvement for vehicle owners on a tight budget.
Pros
- Shallow mount 6.5 speakers with good quality sound, especially mid and high range
- Worth every penny
- Universal mounting brackets
- Good sound on OEM head unit with no additional amp
Cons
- Wiring connector is too short
- Tweeter is not aimable
- Speakers do not handle low bass well and you need to apply an HPF (high pass filter) if you have one
Read Verified Customer Reviews
#3. Rockford Fosgate PPS4-6 – Midrange and Midbass Car Speakers
Rockfort Fosgate is a popular manufacturer of vehicle audio components. Their PPS4-6 6 1.2-inch midrange car loudspeakers offer superior sound quality during for your daily commute. The speakers boast 400 watts of max power per pair. Not to mention, they feature a 4-ohm nominal impedance. The speakers have oversized motors with high-temperature voice coils and fiber-reinforced paper cones. They also feature corrugated treated cloth surrounds that dramatically cut down on the level of audible distortion.
The Rockford Fosgate speakers are sold in pairs but you can buy a single speaker. They come with universal mounting hardware and attractive grills. They work well when paired with a stock sound system but really shine when you give them some power from amp. Overall, these speakers are capable of generating quality midrange sound when you have bass from your sub and highs from your tweeters.
Pros
- Potent mid-bass and low midrange
- Put your sound system on another level
Cons
- Don’t show their full potential without an amp
- Big magnet may cause installation issues
Read Verified Customer Reviews
#4. JBL CLUB6520 – Replacement for Factory Speakers
The JBL CLUB6520 two-way coaxial speakers are made with incredibly durable UV-resistant polypropylene Plus One woofers. These woofers are engineered to handle constant vehicle vibrations. What’s more, these speakers have PEI balanced dome tweeters for well-balanced high notes. On top of that, they have a frequency response that ranges from 55 to 20,000 hertz. The JBL 6 1/2-inch speakers don’t have an overwhelming amount of power.
In fact, their peak power is capped at around 150 watts. Still, they are easy to install and boast attractive black grilles with JBL’s signature red accents. As such, these speakers look amazing in nearly any vehicle. The JBL speakers can be hooked directly into your car radio. Otherwise, you can install them alongside an aftermarket amp.
Pros
- Not bad for the price you pay
- Easy to install
- They come alive when the power or volume rise
Cons
- Lacking of bass
- Scratchy sounding at loud volume
- Sealing tape is too thin
Read Verified Customer Reviews
#5. HERTZ HCX 165 – For Motorcycle and Sound Quality
The Hertz HCX165 high-energy two-way coaxial speakers boast oversized magnets and pure copper voice coils for perfection-geared high-notes. They also feature a damped mesh fiber cone with aerodynamic gaskets that help to eliminate any unwanted distortion. On top of that, the speakers feature rotary high-frequency contours that enable listeners to tilt the tweeters toward them.
This last feature makes for a trouble-free installation and an impressive user experience. The Hertz speakers feature one of the most sophisticated designs we’ve come across. For one, the speakers feature soft iron plates and radial vents for improved heat dissipation. On top of that, the speakers have well-engineered cones for smoother feedback and extended bandwidth. Topping things off, the Hertz speakers have a streamlined design that looks great in nearly any vehicle.
Pros
- Angled turnable tweeters
- Highs are very clean and bright
- Lows are strong and powerful
- Beautiful sound quality
Cons
- Pricey
- You will need good amplifier to bring out that beautiful sound
Read Verified Customer Reviews
#6. Rockford Fosgate R165X3 – Best 3-Way Speakers
The Rockfort Fosgate R1655X3s are a pair of full-range three-way coaxial 6.5 speakers that offer affordable and well-balanced audio improvements. The speakers boast vacuumed polypropylene cones with silk dome pole-mounted piezo tweeters and dynamic midranges. The midranges are mounted at a depth of 2.15-inches. These speakers also have a 6-decibel integrated speaker crossover for full-range audio.
The Fosgate three-ways have a nominal impedance of around 4 ohms. Meanwhile, they have a frequency response that ranges between 52 and 20,000 hertz. On top of that, they have an RMS power handling of 45 watts. Not to mention, the speakers come with attractive grilles and trim rings.
Pros
- Great sounding speakers for the budget-minded
- Crisp and clear sound
- Made with quality materials
Cons
- Blow-out easily
- Some vibrations
- No bass
Read Verified Customer Reviews
#7. Kenwood KFC-1665S – Replacement for Rear Deck Speakers
Kenwood KFC-1665S are 6 1.2-inch Sports Series two-way flush mount car speakers with incredible audio capabilities. These speakers have a collective peak power handle of around 300 watts and an RMS power rating of 30 watts. The speakers have a frequency response that ranges from 35 to 22,000 hertz and a nominal impedance of 4 ohms. On top of that, they boast polypropylene woofers with treated cloth surrounds and 1-inch balanced dome tweeters.
What’s more, they have a sensitivity of around 92 decibels. The Kenwood speakers are one of the few car audio parts that are actually designed to stand up against repeated abuse. They have durable metal grilles and multiple speed clips. Not to mention, they come with wires and self-tapping screws. We found these speakers to be surprisingly affordable and easy to install. While factory-installed radios don’t always bring out their best qualities, they are solid OEM replacements.
Pros
- Easy to install
- Not the best but pretty good for the price
- Recommend if not installing an amp
Cons
- Terminals/lugs are thin and flimsy and will easily bend
- Lower power speakers
- Lacking bass and mid range output
Read Verified Customer Reviews
#8. Alpine R-Series R-S65 – Speakers with High-Quality Sound
There’s a lot to love about the Alpine R-Series 6 1/2-inch coaxial speakers. For one, they feature hybrid fiber woofers with multi-roll rubber surrounds. Together, these elements produce a clean punchy bass with minimal distortion. On top of that, these speakers have ultra-responsive 1-inch silk tweeters that produce crystal-clear highs. These speakers utilize up to 100 watts of power, enabling extreme sound when you want it most.
They are a superb upgrade for stock stereo systems. After all, they produce clean crisp highs and vibrant lows for a full spectrum of sound. These speakers mount easily and are not susceptible to regular vehicle vibrations.
Pros
- The highs are crisp and bright
- The lows are punchy and tight
- Everything you need for installation in the box
Cons
- You will definitely need an amplifier to get the best out of them
- Plastic basket
Read Verified Customer Reviews
#9. Polk DB652 – Great Speakers for Decent Price
The Polk DB652 Ultramarine Dynamic Balance Coaxial Speakers are well-balanced marine-certified (IP55) devices. They boast polypropylene UV-resistant cones with resilient waterproof surrounds. Besides their water-resistant barrier, these speakers have incredible sensitivity and a superb frequency response. Not to mention, they have a 100-watt continuous power handling and a 300-watt peak power handling. The speakers even come with sporty geometric grilles.
The Polk speakers sound great while putting up a guard against destructive natural elements. While some users felt these speakers were expensive, we’re confident that their worthy of a small investment. They are a popular replacement for RV and sports vehicle OEM speakers. Keep in mind that you may need to purchase aftermarket adapter rings in order to fit them with your factory grills.
Pros
- Marine-rated waterproof (IP55)
- Well built speakers
- Clear sound with a wide frequency respons
Cons
- Lacking in the mid and low bass
- Non-swiveling tweeter
- Head unit may not have enough power for them
Read Verified Customer Reviews
#10. Pioneer TS-D65F D Series – Perfect Coax for Bass and Overall Sound
The Pioneer TS-D65F D Series car speakers are bargain-rate replacements for your OEM speakers. They boast impressive injection-molded polypropylene woofer cones with aramid fibers for booming bass. What’s more, these speakers feature coated textile dome tweeters for excellent high-frequency response.
The pair can handle up to 90 watts of RMS power and 270 watts of peak power. Not to mention, they have a frequency that ranges from 32 to 49,000 hertz. These speakers boast a top-mount depth of 2 5/8-inches and a nominal impedance of 4 ohms. Keep in mind that these speakers do not come with grilles. As such, you will need to utilize your stock grilles or purchase aftermarket alternatives. On top of that, the kit omits installation wires. On the other hand, they come with eight 3.4-inch screws for easy mounting. With that said, these speakers may be a bit too complicated for a newbie to install.
Pros
- Directional tweeter
- Nice sounding mids and highs
- Easy installation into OEM locations
Cons
- Grilles are not included
- Use an amplifier with these speakers
Best Mid Range General Purpose Speakers
#1.OSD Audio AP650
- High end components.
- Weatherproof.
- Up to 150 watts of power.
#2.Rockford Fosgate R165X3
- 180 Watts.
- Well built.
- Four speakers.
#3.Kicker 43DSC6504
- Affordable pair.
- Good full range sound.
- Great volume.
#4.OSD Audio AP650
First up is a commendable pair of 6.5 inch beauties, they make for a great indoor/ outdoor two-way option, due to their all weather versatility. They are of a solid construction and come in a classic black or white finish. The frequency response on the OSD Audio is fairly wide, ranging from 37Hz to 20KHz. The enclosure is ported for better bass response, but with the outdoor use in mind, the circuitry and internal components are completely sealed and duly protected. The driver is impressive and the power handling goes from 10-150 watts.
They are lightweight with compact dimensions and come with matching mounting brackets which swivel 180 degrees. They are reasonably priced for weather-proofed speakers, but of course, you will already have to have an amplifier or system to hook them up to, or you will need to purchase one.
Pros: + High end components. + Weatherproof. + Up to 150 watts of power.
Why We Liked It – These are ideal speakers to mount outdoors for garden parties. They are exceptionally well made and good value for money.
#5. Rockford Fosgate R165X3
Our second speaker product that we are reviewing are a set of four, 3-way coaxial stereo speakers for mounting in your car. They are well built and are CEA-2031 compliant speakers, their powerful drivers have a peak power of 90 watts per speaker, the route mean squared power is 45 watts each. They feature a tiny half-inch silk dome Piezoelectric tweeter to effectively deal with high-frequency audio.
Having separate types of speakers designated to different frequency ranges gives a more natural representation of sound, high-frequency sounds will often be tinny without a dedicated tweeter. 6.5 inches is an ideal dimension for car door speakers, this set makes a pretty decent upgraded replacement with their additional tweeters. They weigh less than 10lbs and are easy to mount. They have a mounting depth of 2-3/16 inches.
Pros: + 180 Watts. + Well built. + Four speakers.
Why We Liked It – These 3-way speakers emulate a typical loudspeaker setup with it’s frequency allocated cones provides a less synthetic feel to audio, no boxiness, no muffling or distortion.
#6. Kicker 43DSC6504
Another option, this time a 2-way coaxial set to mount in your ride are these 6.5” pair from Kicker. They are surprisingly inexpensive for a set that is so well made. Some of the reviews in our opinion are a little unfair, Kicker makes some pretty decent, low-cost speakers and we are inclined to think that some of the disappointment found with these guys is from bass-heads, looking to deck their cars out in homage to the SPL wars.
If you aren’t looking to pack your trunk with giant booming subwoofers, these are an expertly made duo. We feel they are powerfully loud putting out a total of 240watts, with a great driven bass response for a 6.5 and that ultimately the low-end handling is determined by your set up and the mounting and enclosure methods. They come with the necessary splice connectors for simple mounting. The components great quality and they are adept for clearer high-end frequencies. They make for an excellent car speaker upgrade and surpass most expectations given their appealing price-tag.
Pros: + Affordable pair. + Good full range sound. + Great volume.
Why We Liked It – They pack a real punch for a pair that weigh less than 5lbs, we think the bass response is rich and resonant and the trebles distinct and crisp.
#7. JBL GTO629
Here we have a premium pair from JBLs fantastic high-fidelity GTO series, a perfect audio upgrade for your automobile. Their large carbon-injected cones displace much more air than other 6.5 inch speakers in its class, essentially producing more bass. They feature patented UniPivot tweeters, so you can direct the sound to where you want it.
They share dual level volume adjustment, which helps to compensate for less than idyllic placement. The components used are premium quality and well-manufactured, they capably direct the highs and lows to their respective, dedicated speakers. They are easy to install and have a mounting cutout diameter of 5-1/16 inches and a mounting depth of 2 inches. They Come in comfortably below the hundred dollar mark, they weigh just under 6lbs and are very low impedance.
Pros: + 60 RMS. + Dedicated tweeters. + Premium parts. + Value for money.
Why We Liked It – The JBL GTO series is one of their most innovative lines. They produce pristine high-fidelity sound available in common factory sizes, This pair are robust and make an excellent replacement, satisfying auto and audio enthusiasts alike.
#8. Pioneer TSA1676R
When it comes to speakers, Pioneer know a thing or two, having dealt with consumer electronics for the best part of almost a century. The Tokyo based corporation began life as a radio and speaker repair shop and today they manufacture some of the best-selling on the current available market. This pair of 6.5” speakers have an impressive maximum output power of 320 watts and they are incredibly low- priced for a high- class, 3-way set. They come hot off of Pioneers next generation TS-A series which have been refined and re-designed for optimal audio.
They have improved bass, a more dynamic range, and better power-handling, as well as a trendy new facelift. They feature a new multi-layer Mica Matrix cone design surrounded by lightweight elastic polymer. The cones rigid nature gives a much wider audio dispersion. The tweeter design has been radically improved. Overall, they provide lush stereo sound with deep bass, and high fidelity natural soundings mids and highs. They effectively cope with high input power because of well-thought-out features such as their heat-resistant voice coils along with the vented cooling baskets incorporated from their high-end PRS Spider designs.
Pros: + High end patented design features. + 320 Watts. + 3-way speakers. + Diverse range.
Why We Liked It – They are an exceptionally valuable set with some pretty high end design features.
#9. BOSS Audio CH6530
Up next is another exemplary pair of 3-way class car speakers, served up a super-low price from Boss Audio Systems, fresh from their Chaos series line. They feature piezoelectric tweeter which contains an active element that has been positively charged, Piezo speakers are much are less susceptible to overloading. Theses high-frequency drivers cope better and don’t require any crossover. They are low impedance, they feature durable poly injected cones in a rubber surround, providing a highly responsive performance.
The 3-way nature produces a full-range sound dynamic which is practically unbeatable at this price level. Other design features include a high temp voice coil which coupled with the heat-resistant Piezo mean that these 6.5 inch bad boys with their eye-catching black and red aesthetics can handle up to 300 watts at a peak of 150 each. They are relatively simple to mount if you know what you are doing and require a depth of 2.1inches.
Pros: + Durable. + 3-way class. + Full range sound. + High watt. + Low price.
Why We Liked It – They are an awesome pair of speaker with high end design aspects that have somehow been reproduced for a fraction of the cost of most of the other products they also have a reputable brand and 3 year warranty and come with free grilles. The sound range is dynamic and distortion free.
#10. Alpine SPS-610
Another good alternative for kitting out your car with, which have a mid-range wattage and fairly impressive 2-way class specs is this SPS set of 2 coaxial speakers. Each pack a punch of 80 Watts RMS each totaling a 240 peak power together. A cheaper option to some of Alpines best selling speakers in the SPR range, for those with a more restrictive budget. They benefit from Alpines knowledge an expertise and share some design features with their high-end lines. You could also try these speakers under 100.
They produce full-bodied sound with dual processing mids and highs are catered for and the bass is a little more understated than some sets but very rich with good depth. The drivers have great power handling and the basket design provides adequate cooling for optimal high-frequency response. They weigh less than 5lbs easy to install and have fairly nominal impedance, which is important especially with older cars that might have outdated circuitry.
Pros: + 2-way class. + 240 watt peak power. + Affordably priced.
Why We Liked It – They handle an ample amount of peak power and alpine audio speakers are well made.
#11. Kenwood KFC-1695PS
Of course, we couldn’t sift through so many top car speakers without coming across a superb 6.5” offering from Kenwood. They are a high-performance, set of 2, 3-way class, coaxial speakers. Each effectively copes with 150 Watts with a peak of 320 respectively. They feature Kenwoods flush mount design and are extremely well crafted. They are affordably priced and the layout consists of 2-1/2” paper cone,1-9/16” paper cone tweeter, and 1/2” ceramic super tweeter. They serve up a brighter sound with great clarity, the bass has a presence but is not overbearing with this pair set-up. They have a versatile frequency response which covers 75-20,000Hz and very low impedance.
Pros: + Respected brand. + High power. + Crystal sound (super tweeter). + 3-way classified. + Low price tag.
Why We Liked It – They are an affordably priced top class option that cover a good range, the bass is not too heavy and they are an easy install.
#12. Sony 4 XS-MP1611
If you happen to be browsing speakers, looking for an upgrade for your boat then the following offering from Sony will probably be the one for you. It is a stylish set of 4, dual cone, 6.5-inch Marine speakers. They are IPX5 certified as water resistant enough for marine use (UV-ray and salt-waterproof). Sony has decades of experience and fabricate some great low-cost products and these are no exception. They are lightweight but of a durable build and feature premium components. The dual drivers have surprising performance and cope with a fair input.
They have 65 Watts of RMS power, 130 per 4-pack and maximum power of 140 watts (280 watts per 4-pack). They produce good resonant sound with reasonable clarity. They have excellent circuitry with very low impedance and can be front or rear mounted with relative ease at the convenience of a few standard spade wires. They require a cutout of 4-15/16 inches, they come in classic black or white and they have a removable grille though it is disappointingly only plastic.
Pros: + Low impedance. + 4-pack. + Dual cone. + IPX5 waterproofing.
Why We Liked It – They are a reasonably price foursome that are perfect for pimping up your pontoon with.
#13. Infinity Kappa 62.11
Our final review for this article are this rugged pair of 6.5” coaxial speaker. They are 2-way classified and extremely high fidelity. They have an ultra low impedance, compensating for wiring quality elsewhere. The high frequencies are smoothly dealt with via its soft dome edge woven fabric tweeter. They are carbon injected glass fiber material which copes well under peak pressures. The power handling on this maxes out at a whopping 450 watts (225 each). The RMS power of each is 75 watts totaling 150 watts. They make for a remarkably noticeable upgrade to factory installed car speakers, in terms of fidelity.
The sound, in general, is pretty full range despite the 2-way class. They feature proprietary Plus One cone technology allowing them to provide more cone are than any other speaker in their class for unrivaled dispersion. They have modern aesthetics with their beautiful chrome inserts on the grille, they have no visible mounting screws.
Pros: + High power handling. + Premium material used in component. + Highly durable build. + High fidelity. + Plus One cone tech.
Why We Liked It – They are a robust set, that have outstanding performance, the price of these is a little higher than the rest we have reviewed but the components are superior quality so ultimately you get what you pay for.
Buyer’s Guide
Why buy new car speakers?
Are you debating whether or not to replace your stock speakers? Superior sound quality is provided by high-grade aftermarket audio parts. Vehicle audio components are frequently overlooked by automobile manufacturers, who are more concerned with the car’s performance and safety aspects. Fortunately, advanced aftermarket parts containing high-quality sound-producing elements such as tweeters, woofers, midrange, and crossovers are available.
These speakers can be used in conjunction with your standard radio or aftermarket stereo components to produce crisp highs and forceful lows. While other audio system upgrades can be costly, a good pair of 6.5 coaxial speakers is a relatively inexpensive investment that can yield noticeable results. Furthermore, most folks may do it from the convenience of their own garage or driveway.
What’s the difference between coaxial and component speakers?
Full-range speakers are coaxial speakers. They generate a wide spectrum of sound by combining mid-range woofers with tweeters. A built-in crossover is found on most coaxial speakers, which helps to separate highs and lows.
The main benefit of this style of speaker is that it has all of the components in one unit, making it ideal for fitting into a car door. Component speakers, on the other hand, are made up of independent woofers, tweeters, and crossovers. The use of a big external crossover allows for better distinct highs and lows.
However, it is more difficult to install this type of speaker. Check out this informative YouTube video for a more detailed look at the differences between coaxial and component car speakers. If you’re confident in your ability to install car audio parts and you have plenty of money to spend, you can’t go wrong with a high-quality component speaker set. If so, be sure to check out our component speaker buying guide.
How much power do I need for my new speakers?
The power ratings of speakers are one of the most significant variations between them. Most manufacturers, however, supply both RMS (root mean square) and max power ratings to their consumers. A speaker’s RMS, or continuous power rating, is what it uses every time it performs. Keep in mind that low-powered factory-installed radios go nicely with speakers with low RMS ratings. Speakers with a high RMS rating, on the other hand, are best paired with high-powered aftermarket amplifiers.
Make every effort to choose speakers that are compatible with your receiver or amplifier, as attempting to draw too much power from these components can cause them to fail. Always remember that it’s preferable to overload your speakers than to underpower them. Peak power ratings are also commonly found on speakers. This rating refers to the maximum power that can be used in a short period of time. This quantity of power can be safely applied to the speakers without causing any damage. Of course, this figure does not reflect the amount of power used.
What 6.5 speakers are best for bass?
Even the best 6.5-inch speakers are going to struggle to put out a lot of bass. Deep bass doesn’t come without a good subwoofer. 6.5 speaker is not designed to produce good bass but for midranges or midbass.
Sensitivity Rating
A speaker’s sensitivity rating paints a picture of how easily power is converted into sound. Speaker sensitivity is a measurement of the number of watts produced at a 1-meter distance. For example, a speaker with a sensitivity of 80 watts produces that amount of volume 1 meter away from the unit.
What materials are best materials for car stereo systems?
Speakers are made up of a number of components that work together to produce high-quality sound. The woofers in a speaker are comprised of thin, rigid materials like polypropylene. Metal thread and other robust materials are frequently used to reinforce them. Tweeters, on the other hand, are composed of extraordinarily soft materials such as silks, metals, and ceramics. Surrounds are usually included with speakers. Pliable materials like rubber and linen are used to make these pieces.
| Component | Materials |
|---|---|
| Tweeter | Silk, polyurethane for mellow sound. Metal, ceramics and graphite for brighter highs. |
| Woofer | Polypropylene best for bass. Woven fabrics or metal coated synthetics also be used. |
| Surround Materials | The best material is rubber. Foam and cloth surrounds are less expensive. |
Do speakers ever sport specialty features?
Audio part manufacturers are constantly adding unqiue features to help their speakers stand out. These features include pivoting tweeters, designer grills, and integrated controls. While elements like these can definitely improve a speaker, the core components should never be ignored.
Why does a speaker’s durability matter?
Car speakers are installed directly into car doors. As such, they often come in contact with rain, mud, and snow. What’s more, they are constantly at odds with vehicle vibrations. These conditions are often worse in off-road and all-terrain vehicles. To help eliminate durability issues, manufacturers have developed water- and dust-resistant speakers. These speakers are typically marine certified or boast high a Ingress Protection (IP) rating. Keep in mind that an IP rating of 61 protects a speaker from minimal condensation, whereas an IP rating of 64 protects from water spray coming from every possible direction.
What are the loudest 6.5 speakers?
Though there are several 6.5″ coaxial car speakers on our list that are capable of reaching fantastic volumes, there are two in particular that consumers have labeled some of the loudest and best in car speakers on the market. Firstly, the JBL are famous for their exceptional heights of volume, so you could really go for any of their 6.5’s and still experience loud volumes. We still recommend the JBL C762 or the JBL 6TO629 as those have other features which make them even better. Though the Infinity Kappa 60CSX found itself at the bottom of our list, this speaker setup also delivers fantastic volumes.
What are the best 6.5 car speakers for bass?
Again this is another question that can be answered by pinpointing a specific brand rather than a specific speaker. 6.5 Inch coaxial speakers aren’t ever going to be too fantastic for bass unless accompanied by a good woofer. Because of this, any Pioneer produced speaker is going to be your best bet as they are usually accompanied by a decent woofer.
Are 6.5 or 6×9 speakers better?
This really depends on your needs, a 6×9 is going to be better at producing some quality bass due to the bigger cone area, but for someone who just wants better quality sound, a 6.5 will be perfect. We review the best 6×9 speakers for you here.
Is it worth upgrading your current car speakers?
Even if you aren’t a major music listener, you will undoubtedly spend a significant amount of time on the road listening to music. As a result, you will undoubtedly notice a loss of audio quality, thus it is best to upgrade your speakers as soon as possible. Upgrading your speaker system is also one of the most cost-effective upgrades you can make to your car, so it’s a terrific place to start for anyone looking to improve their ride.
What’s the difference between factory speakers and the 6.5 car speakers on the list.
To put it plainly, speaker quality just isn’t what car manufacturers care about. When people buy cars they check out the engine, the steering and other features- but never really the speakers. In contrast to this, these speaker manufacturers will have spent plenty of time focusing on the speaker quality of their products and so will produce something more durable and of a better quality.
Coaxial Speakers Vs. Component Speakers
Before we debate which of these speakers is better, let us understand what is meant by the above terms. A coaxial speaker consists of a single speaker enclosure which includes the woofer, tweeter, along with the crossover. On the other hand, component systems implement these three components separately. Now, there are obvious advantages and disadvantages to both setups. In the case of component speakers, you can expect a much higher audio quality compared to a coaxial speaker with similar power output.
However, the higher audio quality comes at a premium. Moreover, it is a little tricky to install the separate parts of a component speaker system. Therefore, if you are a true audiophile with deep pockets, then the component system makes more sense. For every other person out there, you should stick to coaxial speaker systems. While the audio quality may not be as good as a component system, it should suffice for most.
Power Handling Rating
Do not be fooled by speaker power numbers until you grasp the difference between Root Mean Square (RMS) and Peak Power Output. Many audio companies just promote their speakers’ Peak or Max Power ratings without including the RMS value. Simply explained, the RMS rating is what determines a speaker’s true loudness. The RMS number indicates how much continuous power the speaker can withstand before it becomes damaged.
The Peak Power rating, on the other hand, defines how much power it can absorb in short bursts without blowing up. As a result, unless loudness is one of your defining criteria, you should just compare RMS values. Check to see if the company’s RMS value complies with the CEA-2006 and CEA-2031 requirements.
Design and Fittings
While most car speakers have a generic design, some speaker pairs like the Pyle PL63BL and the Polk Audio MM651UM we featured earlier in our list, stray from that trend. If the speaker design is not important for you, then you should focus on the depth of the speaker enclosures to ensure that they fit inside your vehicle. You can now check whether it is possible to install the speaker of your choice inside your vehicle using an intuitive tool on Amazon.com.
Durability and Marine Certification
If you are looking to install car speakers in your ATV or a similar off-road vehicle, then you should pay close attention to the Marine Certification. The Polk Audio MM651UM we featured earlier in our list is a solid example of highly durable speakers.
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:
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
You know you want the best 6.5 component car speakers, the only question is, how to fit 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 a way of mounting new tweeters high in the doors.
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. The subsections that follow address:
- Vehicle-to-vehicle differences
- Parts needed
- Tools needed
- Replacing door speakers
- Adding tweeters
- Dash-mounted speakers
- Speakers in the parcel shelf
Vehicle-to-Vehicle Differences
It would be great if car manufacturers could standardize they way they build doors and install speakers, but they don’t. Every vehicle is different. As a result we can only provide generic advice on installing a component system or those 6.5 component speakers you’ve picked from our “Best Car Speakers” list. We will however address the most common place manufacturers like to place speakers: the doors, and also the parcel shelf and dash.
Parts Needed
In addition to the speakers, consider buying two other items:
- A vehicle-specific wiring harness. This connects the speakers to the dedicated plastic plug on the end of the wiring loom in the car. The alternative is to cut the wires and make crimped or soldered connections.
- Speaker brackets or speaker adapters. These are for when either your new speakers are a different size to those already in the vehicle, or the mounting holes don’t line up. How will you know if you need them? Well the 6.5 component is such a common size you may not need them at all, but it may be that you can’t tell for sure until the door trim is off.
Tools Needed
The biggest challenge you will face is removing interior trim without damaging it. For that you need a set of special “pry” tools. These look like a flat-bladed paint scraper with a slot cut down the middle. Some are bent midway down, making them good for reaching into tight spaces up near the door hinge. Fortunately they’re inexpensive and you can pick them up at your favorite low cost tools store. Having alerted you to that requirement, here’s a list of what you will probably need:
- Pry tools – flat and angled
- Cross-head (Phillips) screwdrivers (or bits for your drill)
- Small sockets – metric and inch
- Drill
- Crimp tools (if you’re not going the dedicated wiring harness route) or a solder gun and heat shrink sleeving.
- Craft knife (for cutting through foam or sealant.)
- Hole saw of the size needed to cut openings for tweeters, preferably with the finest tooth pitch you can find. (Obviously, not applicable if you’re installing co-axial speakers.)
Replacing Door Speakers
Most modern cars have the speakers mounted in the doors. You may still find a few with them in the dash and others in the rear parcel shelf. Here we’ll concentrate on those in the doors, and add some tips for dealing with those other locations. To start with we’ll assume you’re replacing the OEM co-axial speakers. In the section after this we’ll address how to add tweeters, if you’re going the component route.
1. Park where you’ve got room to open both doors fully, then disconnect the battery.
2. Study the door trim to find any securing screws. Remove any that are visible, others may be hidden under removable trim pieces, perhaps under the armrest.
3. Remove the window controls. Most cars have switches in the arm rest and this panel can usually be popped up (being careful not to scratch any surfaces.) Then disconnect the wiring. If there’s any possibility of mixing the wires, wrap masking tape round them and mark it up appropriately. If your car has crank windows the handle has to come off. It may be held in place by a screw but more often there’s a spring clip between the handle and door trim. Your pry tools should be good for removing this.
4. Most cars have a “sail panel” covering where the door mirror mounts. This will likely need to come off before the door trim will lift away. Unless you see screws holding it in place use your pry tool to reach down the sides and pop it out.
5. Remove the door trim. Start by sliding your pry tool between door and trim panel at the bottom corner. Slide the tool sideways until you find a retaining clip. Jiggle the tool to put the clip in the center slot, and pop the panel up. Slide to the next clip and repeat. Keep doing this until you can slide the tool the entire way around the perimeter of the door panel. (Not every panel is held on by retaining clips. You may find that after removing a few screws it will just lift up and off.) Once the panel is free, carefully lift it away, watching for any cables going to the door release. If these get in the way just disconnect them cables. Sometimes it’s enough to just turn the panel 90° and lean it on the door.
6. Now the speakers are exposed, undo the retaining screws. If they are original the vehicle manufacturer may have used foam adhesive or sealant to help hold them in place: cut through that with your craft knife. Lift the speaker out and slide off the wiring connectors. There’s almost always a fat and a thin terminal: the fat one is positive. 7. Test fit the new speakers to see if the screw holes line up. If they don’t you’ll need to use a speaker adapter. Install that in the door before hooking up the new speakers. (If you’re installing a combination car speaker set, drop down to the tweeter section below now.)
8. Make the electrical connections. If a purpose-made harness isn’t available either crimp or solder and heat-shrink the wires. If you’re concerned about whether you got the polarity right, reconnect the battery and play some music through them. You’ll soon tell if they sound right or not!
9. Tuck the wires away in the door making sure they won’t rattle, then mount the new speakers in place. 10. Refit the door panel. Sometimes it takes a good thump to seat the retaining clips. Reconnect switch controls and put that panel back in place. Install any screws you took out and put any other pieces of trim back. Then go to the other side of the vehicle and do it all over again!
Adding Tweeters
Start by following steps 1 through 7 of the door speaker instructions above. Then do the following:
- Decide where you’ll mount the tweeters. They should be as high and as far forward as possible to create the best soundstage, but make sure they won’t interfere with the window operation.
- Mark the location on the inner side of the door trim panel and on any metal you’ll need to cut in the door itself. Use the hole saw to cut the two openings. File sharp edges smooth and use touch-up paint on the bare metal.
- Install the mounting hardware supplied with the tweeters. (This will include a grille for the opening you’ve cut in the door.)
- Connect the wires from the audio system into the crossover. Hook the speakers up to the output side.
- Mount the external crossover box inside the door. You’ll need a way of making this secure so it doesn’t come loose and start rattling.
From this point the test and reassembly points are the same as in the door speaker section above. Resume at Point 8.
Dash-Mounted Speakers
If you’re lucky these will be covered by removable grilles. Take out any retaining screws or just pop the grilles out with your pry tool for access to the mounting screws. If you’re unlucky the only way to reach these is from beneath the dash. That’s a much harder project, unless there’s a way to remove the entire upper panel.
Speakers In the Parcel Shelf
These are usually accessible through the trunk or liftgate. The biggest challenge may be contorting yourself into the shape needed to work on them. As with the door speakers, be sure to make good electrical connections.
Ready to Start?
A speaker upgrade is an easy way to improve your automotive audio experience. Read our reviews to learn which we consider the best car speakers. In just a few hours you’ll be enjoying music as the artists intended. On a budget? We’ve also assembled a top rated value speakers, check out our Best Value 6.5″ Component Speakers for our list of best 6.5″ components that won’t drain the bank. Or, if you’re looking for the ultimate car speakers, take a look through our Best High End 6.5″ Component Car Speakers. And before you choose a speaker for your system, consider learning about Component Car Speakers. Understand their features so that you can make an informed decision when you make your purchase.
Do you need a good 6.5-inch speaker with excellent sound quality and bass you’ll love? In this article, we’re going to review the 10 best 6.5 speakers and hone in on what sets them apart. The majority of our selection today are options for your car, however, we have also included a maritime and a patio set. Many standard car speakers will be around 6 to 6.5 inches in diameter. This size means you’ll be able to replace the stock set without modifications. They’re sufficient for practical use and don’t take up too much space either, which is one of the biggest benefits of a 6.5-inch speaker. Not looking for a standard speaker? Try these car speakers for great bass.
What to look for to find the best 6.5 car speaker
Before the list begins, there are a number of important factors that you should pay attention to when considering which car speaker is the right one for you.
Wattage
It is important to take watts into consideration as the higher the watts, the more handling power your speakers will have. This usually means that they will play music louder, so if you’re someone who wants to listen to louder music then this is an element to focus on.
Frequency
Frequency is also important, stereos have many different frequency responses which leads to differing ranges. Finding a stereo with a wider range means you may get better car audio quality, it also means that you will be able to experience both bass and treble clearer.
What to look for in 6.5 speakers?
What you need to search for depends entirely on the type of speaker you require. On the surface, they are all the same size and function in the same way, but some are actively driven and so stand alone, while others are required in conjunction with a speaker amplifier. Based on your questions about 6.5-inch speakers, we’ve researched a variety of various sorts of audio solutions. If you’re looking for low-cost bookshelf speakers or monitors with speakers that fit inside the specified dimensions, we’ve got you covered with a variety of speaker-related articles, each with a helpful buyer’s guide.
Once you’ve determined what type of speaker is best for your needs, consider whether you’ll need any additional features, such as weatherproofing for outdoor use. A cone and an electromagnetic coil are used to create a magnetic field when a current is applied to a speaker. This field attracts and repels the electromagnet away from a permanently attached permanent magnet, which has a piston effect on the cone, dispersing the air surrounding it and producing sonic waves.
Higher sounds have higher frequency waves, which means that when a speaker plays a high pitch, the sound waves travel in and out very quickly, generating a lot of heat. Different types of cone materials are better for different frequencies; for example, silk, paper, or silicone are excellent for high-frequency sound, while stronger bass demands a denser material that still reverberates. The materials used can vary significantly and be composite in nature; some high-end speakers even use cutting-edge Kevlar designs.
If you want a full range sound, you’ll need a driver with at least two 2-way class speakers, one for the upper registers and one for the lower. If you have a standard loudspeaker setup with a woofer, speaker, and tweeter classed as 3-way, the depth and overall sound will be even better.
Because there is something dedicated to distinct ends, the components used in the driver can be built from better materials. For example, a dedicated tweeter will have design elements specifically calibrated to deal with high temperatures caused by excess kinetic energy with nowhere to go. Another thing to think about is power consumption and the wattage you need.
Best budget 6.5 speakers?
The contender that clearly gets the crown for the best budget 6.5-inch speaker is the BOSS Audio set, they’re our lowest priced pair and they are a 3-way class, providing well balanced, diverse spectrum audio. They feature some premium optimizations and come from a trusted brand.
Most durable 6.5 speakers?
For most durable we would suggest the Infinity Kappa pair, they are considerably well manufactured and their patented Plus one cone technology means they handle and perform exceptionally well. If their price tag is out of your reach the most durable cheap option would be the Kenwood set they are 3-way through the bass is a little subtler than you might desire.
Best overall 6.5 car speaker?
Again we go for the Boss Audio pair the sound is unbeatable without paying at least double the price and even at that level of the market we don’t typically see 3-way models that can handle the same wattage as these babies can manage.
Best sounding 6.5 speakers?
We think the Pioneer pair have the best sound overall, they are a fantastic full range 3-way class set and they handle 320 watts. Their multi-layer Mica Matrix cone is hypersensitive and super responsive. The series has had many refinements and incorporated features from their higher end lines in the affordably priced set. The fidelity is noticeably different and we like the new cosmetics also.
Final Thoughts – Best 6.5 inch Speakers
The type of speakers you choose is determined by the function you desire. In our buyer’s guide, we’ve attempted to categorize each item according to its intended use. Hopefully, this, together with the wealth of information provided, will benefit you in your quest for an appropriate 6.5-inch speaker. Be honest with yourself about what you truly need from your speakers; many people overbuy in terms of power, and many people want a subwoofer on a sound system that they will likely never use.
If you’re shopping on a tight budget, it’s usually a good idea to go for a reputable brand rather than a cheap knock-off to obtain a good deal. A 3-way class set up to cover a better frequency response, low impedance, a mount size that won’t be obstructed in your vehicle, sensible wattage, and cooling methods integrated in the design are all desirable features in a great pair of car speakers.
We understand that picking the correct pair of speakers can be difficult, especially if you are new to the automotive audio market. We did, however, put a lot of effort and research into this post in order to assist you in reaching a decision. In fact, we feel that our list of the best 6.5 car speakers, together with our shopping advice, is all you’ll need to get your hands on a brand new set of vehicle speakers.
When we part ways, let us remind you of a few key considerations you should make before purchasing a new set of car speakers.
The greatest 6.5 inch car speakers are undoubtedly the most significant part of your car’s music system. At times, it might also be the most difficult to make a decision. Price, power, size, and, most importantly, quality vary. Finding the best automobile speakers is difficult with so many options from manufacturers all around the world.
However, if you want to improve the sound of your car’s stereo, you’ll need a set of high-quality car speakers. The sound quality in your vehicle will be improved with a new set of aftermarket 6 1/2 inch components. You can turn up the volume with a good pair of component speakers. More loudness, but also more clarity and less distortion in your music. It might even add some bass to your setup.
Finding, researching and purchasing car speakers that fit the needs of your vehicle is difficult. Sound preference, quality, style, features and price all vary. So what are our recommended 6 1/2 component car speakers for 2019? Our knowledge and first-hand experience with products combined with extensive research has led us to our own list of top 6.5 inch component speakers for your car. And if you’re not 100% positive your car will fit a 6 1/2″ speaker, check out our car speaker fitment guide to confirm the speaker sizes for your year, make and model.
Expert Tip
6.5 inch isn’t a car speaker size that usually requires any modding, If you are a serious bass-head looking for some 10” beasts you to really boost your car’s bass then you might want to head on over to our Top 10 Best Budget Subwoofers for Cars article to see what’s on offer.