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Best Component Speakers for Car

James Benchman
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by James Benchman

If you’re looking to upgrade the speakers in your car, one of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether you prefer coaxial or component speakers.

Many manufacturers make coaxial speakers as full-range options. Users will likely find that they can install these speakers easily without having to alter the interior of their car. The drivers on component speakers, on the other hand, are split into sections.

This gives customers the option to customize the configuration through an equalizer, but it also means that installation is significantly more challenging. If you are up for the challenge, you’ll want to take time to research the best car component speakers on the market today. Fortunately for you, we’ve compiled a list of what we feel are the eight top component speakers that you can buy.

Top 5 Component Speakers
  • Two-way Butterworth outboard crossover
  • Polymer composite cone
  • Easy installation
  • Comes with a hybrid layered-pulp cone
  • 300-watt peak performance
  • Lightweight
  • Available in various sizes
  • Comes with a Flex Fit basket design
  • Integrated concealed crossover
  • Three different tweeter levels
  • Mica-filled polypropylene cone
  • Two-way design
  • Comes with a woofer, tweeter, mounting system, and crossover
  • 210-watt peak performance
  • Tweeter made from mylar-titanium

Component Speakers Reviews

1. Polk Audio DB6501 6.5” 2-Way Component System

Polk is one of the most trusted names in audio, so it’s no surprise to see their two-way component speakers lead our list.

The speakers pack impressive features, such as a Butterworth outboard crossover and a neodymium magnet. Users may need to fine-tune this product, however, as we got complains about a noticeable lack of bass.

The Polk Audio DB6501 6.5”  Component System is an excellent choice for those looking to improve their in-car audio experience. The speakers have a 4.2-star rating with more than 430 customer reviews. Of those who reviewed the product, nearly 70 percent gave it a five-star rating.

The product features a two-way Butterworth outboard crossover which helps to protect the electronic tweeters. The woofers on these speakers also have a polymer composite cone. Installation should be straightforward thanks to two adapter rings. The dome tweeter is a liquid-cooled silk and polymer blend and features a neodymium magnet. Stainless steel hardware rounds out this nice package with distinctive eye-catching grills.

Power handling is nice at 300 Watts peak power and an RMS range of 10-100W.

The speakers measure 8” x 14.5” x 4.8” and weigh about five pounds. The overall frequency response is 35Hz – 23kHz. The nominal impedance is 4 Ohms and sensitivity is at 92 dB.

Pros
  • Adapter rings make installation easy
  • Butterworth outboard crossover provides a protective circuit
  • Neodymium magnet provides detailed highs
  • Steel basket is rustproof
Cons
  • The steel basket is only available in Gun Metal Gray
  • Some customers complained about a lack of bass

2. Alpine SPR-60C 6.5” Audio Component System

If you’re looking for a powerful audio system in your car, you’ll want to check out the Alpine SPR-60 system. These speakers feature an incredible peak power of 330 watts, along with an RMS power of 110 watts.

Users will want to make sure they have enough depth to install the speakers, however, as they require a mounting depth of 2-5/16”.

One of the most powerful sets of speakers on our list, the Alpine SPR-60C will surely create a powerful in-car audio experience. These speakers are well-rated online by many satisfied owners and it’s no wonder as Alpine is one of the most reliable car audio companies when it comes to the performance of their products. They have a rich history of producing both electronics and speakers through the years that have been easy to stay in the memories of us experience car audio enthusiasts.

The speakers have a peak wattage of 330 Watts and like to be fed with an RMS range of 8-100W normally. Many users were blown away by the levels that the speakers hit, although some mentioned that the tones were not very rich. This might be accurately reflected in their listed frequency response range of 65-29,000 Hz. Now, I’ll be honest as the 65 low end isn’t impressive and I’m surprise to see it as manufacturers usually love to pretty optimistic with their numbers. A good example of that is the 29,000 number. First of all, you may know that normal human ears can perceive any frequencies above 20K. So, a 29K number is amusing and we’ll have to take them on their word and testing about the speaker’s performance. Back to the low-end, a 6.5″ speaker isn’t big enough to satisfyingly produce low bass, but still that 65 Hz number is interesting that most manufacturers specify lower numbers than that. Anyway, I digress.

The speakers also come with a hybrid layered-pulp cone with a Santoprene rubber surround, silk dome tweeters, and are run at 4 Ohms impedance.

They measure 7.1” x 17.7” x 8.6” and weigh about two pounds. Also , The require just under 2.5” mounting depth, which is relatively deep. Final word is that these R-series speakers are a solid choice and we think you can be seriously happy with how they sound.

Pros
  • Peak power is an astounding 330 watts
  • Lightweight, weighing approximately two pounds
  • Comes with a hybrid layered-pulp cone
Cons
  • Requires a mounting depth of 2-5/16”

3. Rockford Fosgate P165-SI 6.5” Punch Series

Another excellent component speaker option is the Rockford Fosgate P165-SI Punch Series. This set of speakers comes with two woofer and two tweeters, providing exceptional in-car audio.

Users indicated that these speakers would work without an amp, which could help cut costs.

The Rockford Fosgate P165-SI 6.5” Punch Series Car Audio Component System comes complete with two woofers and two tweeters. The speakers work best with a good amplifier, as they don’t handle a ton of power, so what your amp provides needs to be clean and good.

Power handling is only 5-60 Watts RMS and a peak power ratings of only 120W. Now, that’s nothing to be concerned about, especially if you’re not slamming the volume super loud in your ride. Again, focus on a high quality amp to drive this Punch series and you’ll be just fine and enjoying some great sound quality.

The woofer cones are a mineral filled polypropylene variety with a nice Santoprene rubber surround. And, then you have the separate 1″ PEI dome tweeters, as well.

Frequency response is good at 43-20,000 Hz and they’re fairly sensitive at 88 dB.

The speakers feature Rockford’s Vertical Attach Sound Technique and Flex Fit basket design, providing crisp, clear audio. The speakers come with a mounting depth of a little less than 2.5”, which shouldn’t be a problem for most cars.

However, Rockford offers the speakers in various sizes, so customers should be able to find the ideal fit for their vehicle.

Pros
  • Available in various sizes, ensuring a perfect fit
  • Features Rockford’s Vertical Attach Surround Technique (VAST)
  • Comes with a Flex Fit basket design
Cons
  • Power handling isn’t immense
  • Depth is 2.3”, which could make installation difficult in some small cars
  • The product is a bit bulky

4. JL Audio C2-650 6.5” 2-Way Component Speaker System

Those looking for their first set of component speakers for the car will want to consider this set from JL Audio.

They cost less than $150, making them an affordable choice. Although the speakers offer a combined 200 watts of power, which is less than other options on our list, we noted that the sound was crisp with minimum distortion.

This JLA C2-650 2-Way speaker set is an excellent option for those interested in upgrading to their first set of component speakers. They have a four-star rating with more than 115 customer reviews.

The speakers offer a total Peak Power of 200 watts, along with RMS Power of 120 watts. The tweeters are also adjustable to one of three different settings, providing users with maximum customization.

They come with space rings, which helps make installation a bit easier. The speakers are affordable, although you may need to purchase additional equipment like an amplifier for them to work.

Pros
  • Customers can adjust the tweeters to three different levels
  • The polypropylene cone is mica-filled, reducing noise distortion
  • Many users noted that the sounds were vibrant and crisp
  • Two-way design
Cons
  • The frequency response is only 91 decibels
  • Some users indicated that they needed to purchase an amplifier

5. JBL GTO608C Two-Way Grand Touring Series

The JBL Grand Touring Series is another affordable option for those interested in upgrading to a component speaker system.

This kit comes affordable and features everything necessary for installation, including woofers, tweeters, a mounting system, and a crossover.

JBL is an audio brand known for its affordability, so it’s no surprise it is the case with their Two-Way Grand Touring Series Component Car Speakers System.

This system comes with practically everything necessary for installation, including tweeters, woofers, a mounting system, and a crossover kit. Unfortunately, however, some customers said that they struggled to find an adapter that they could use to mount the system.

The speakers provide 210 watts of Peak Power but a small 2-ohm of impedance. However, music should still sound crisp and clear.

Pros
  • The system comes with a woofer, tweeter, mounting system, and crossover
  • Mylar-titanium tweeter is ultra-durable
  • The product features tweeter-level control
Cons
  • Requires 12V batteries, not included

6. BOSS Audio CH6CK – Most Affordable Choice

The component car speakers from BOSS could be a quality option depending on the stock speakers that you have in your car. Some users were disappointed with the sound that these provided.

However, we found that the speakers provide up to 350 watts of power. They cost approximately $35, making them the most affordable option on our list of the best car audio component speakers.

The BOSS Audio CH6CK is the most affordable on our list. They could be an excellent choice depending on the stock speakers that are in your car currently.

These speakers provide an incredible 350 watts of Peak Power. This product is also incredibly durable, as BOSS built the speakers to withstand high temperatures.

You will find that these speakers are available in various sizes, making installation easier so long as they measure beforehand. BOSS also offers a three-year warranty with this product.

Pros
  • Comes in various sizes, including some that feature shallow mount designs
  • The voice coils can withstand high temperatures, making them ideal for hot cars
  • BOSS uses more rubber than most, which helps increase durability
  • Three-year manufacturer’s warranty
  • 350 watts of power
Cons
  • The bass on these speakers lacks significantly
  • Some users indicated that these were not as good as their stock speakers

7. Kenwood KFC-P509Ps

The Kenwood Performance Series system is another affordable option worth considering when breaking into the world of component speakers. The product costs less than $70 and features 240 watts of Peak Power, which is average for component speakers but well worth the price tag.

You’ll will also find these speakers slim and easy to install into a wide variety of vehicles.

The Kenwood KFC-P509Ps 5.25” Performance Series speakers is an affordable solution for those looking to replace their stock speakers. The two-way design allows for maximum clarity and a wide range of vocals.

The speakers have a Peak Power of 240 watts, which is average for component speakers. The speakers are also quite slim, which could make the installation easier.

However, Kenwood only offers these speakers in a 5.25” design, not 6.5″. Customers will need to measure their vehicle beforehand to ensure that the speakers fit. Otherwise, they’ll need to purchase an adapter.

Pros
  • The two-way design increases sound clarity
  • Quite affordable
  • Slim and sleek design makes for easy installation
Cons
  • RMS max of 50 watts is significantly lower than other options
  • Noticeable lack of mounting hardware with this unit

8. Infinity Reference 6030cs 6.5” Two-Way Component System

This product stood out to us because of everything included with the kit. The package comes with two tweeters, two woofers, and two crossovers. It also comes with two grilles, a user manual, and mounting hardware.

If you would like to install component speakers without having to take your vehicle to a professional, this kit could help significantly.

The Infinity Reference Two-Way Component System is an excellent choice for those in search of an all-in-one package. The kit comes with two woofers, tweeters, grilles, and crossovers. It also comes with mounting hardware.

Infinity packed impressive features into these speakers, include a two-way component design that improves sound clarity and rubber woofer cones that enhance bass performance. Customers will find that the speakers lack in the Ohm impedance they provide.

However, the optimized crossover network and tweeter adjustment should make up for the difference.

Pros
  • Rubber woofer cones improve bass performance
  • The two-way design increases sound clarity
  • Quality tweeters work to reduce distortion
Cons
  • The speakers only offer 2 Ohm impedance

Conclusion and Final Words

Opting for component speakers can help elevate your in-car audio experience to the next level. Component speakers are best suited for those who have graduated from standard coaxial speakers and desire an overall better sound experience.

As you’ve seen from our reviews, most of the speakers will be 6.5-inch variety although there are, to be sure, other sizes available such as 5.25-inch. You’ll find, however, that the 6.5-inch variety are the majority and that’s because of manufacturers designing their A-pillars and car doors to hold 6.5-inch speakers most of the time. When you have 4-door sedans, you’ll also commonly find 6.5-inch speakers in the rear doors as well.

Car speaker component kits that come with 2-way or 3-way package typically feature 6.5″ woofers and 1.2″ or 1″ tweeters. The 1″ tweeters are pretty normal, but there are also a good amount of 1.2″ tweeters that are making their way into these car speakers. The 1.2″ versions can be thought of leveraging their extra size to deliver more capability. As always, quality matters most, but when you see a manufacturer offering a 1.2″ tweeter option, there’s probably a very good reason why they decided to do that. Besides, it’s a risk because 1″ tweeters are more commonplace in a 6.5″ based component set. So, offering a 1.2″ tweeter may take some physical work for the car audio enthusiast to fit it into their car.

It’s also interesting to point out that it’s not uncommon for those that are interested in a 6.5″ or any enthusiast-level system to forgo trying to just fit their speakers into existing areas of their car doors. What they’re doing instead is adding them to their car’s front A-pillars with some custom crafting of housings to do it. Or, they’ll actually buy kits that attach to their car’s A-pillars and then take their various drivers. Normally, we’re talking about the tweeters that are going into these housings on the A-pillar.

The reason is that these higher sound frequencies that the tweeters are delivering are highly directional and critical for setting up a convincing sound-stage. And, generally, the higher up the tweeters are and close to the same height as your ears, the better the sound quality. Remember, it’s all about getting obstacles out of the way and having the upper frequency drivers higher up and close to ear level. When you accomplish that in your vehicle, you can have sound waves reach your ear better and that’s what set up the brilliant musical representation that you hear based on your brain interpreting the right signals in the right sequence to give you musical enjoyment. Pretty cool, huh?

Thankfully, many car manufacturers understand some of these principles and are placing tweeters and high frequency drivers further up on the doors or even on A-pillars to produce better sound for car audio listeners.

We hope you enjoyed our reviews above and got some good ideas of which component speaker system may be best for you. Either way, we feel that the above list of the eight best car speakers that we’ve provided should satisfy most car audio enthusiasts.

About James Benchman
James Benchman
James is an Automotive Mechanic with over 20 years experience and 300+ car repairs. He is an expert with cars and has worked with different models from the biggest brands. James is a Mechanic , Husband , Father of 3 , and head of content at Caraudiologic. Learn more about us
11 Comments
  1. Who really makes these reviews there are brands that are way better then some on this list that sound amazing for Instance C.T. Sounds great component set I got off Amazon have them in my F150 Mb Quart another great set bass quality sounds great .. definitely two brands that should have made this list!!!

    1. Hector, thanks for your comments. We’re working on new content this year that will talk about different budget ranges. CT Sounds has excellent products as well as the other you mentioned. But, they are often much more expensive and that’s been taken into consideration in our current reviews. We’re working on reviews that focus on higher-end and different budgets.

    1. Hey Felipe, welcome, I’m also a big Focal fan. The reality is that the price is too high for the average car audio enthusiast, so we have to keep that in mind with our reviews.

      For example, something like this Focal 6.5-Inch 3-Way Component speaker kit will provide some seriously excellent sound. But, it’s also a lot of coin.

      We’re planning on reviews this year, where we’ll provide recommendations by budget area, that I think you’re going to like. Stay tuned!

  2. Sir looking for a good quality component speakers with an amp..
    Pls suggest me top three of it price is not an issue..

    1. Hey Gopi, thanks for reaching out. It’s a broad question, but I’ll do my best to give you a simple answer. Ultimately, price is always an issue… 😉 But, if you’re after quality, here are a few things to pay attention to for component speakers. First, I personally run Focal in my daily driver and I think they’re great. I run the Utopia line and it’s thousands of dollars and many won’t be willing to do that. Here’s an excellent more mainstream choice that is still far better than most stuff you’ll find on the market: Focal 3-way Component Speaker Kit You should also look at CT sounds and other ones we’ve reviewed in our articles. In terms of amps, here’s another one of my favorites in my vehicle: JL Audio HD900 5-channel Amp You also can’t go wrong with CT Sounds, Alpine, and the other amps we’ve reviewed on this site. Good luck!

  3. What are the pros and cons about the JL Audio C5-650 6.5” 2-Way Component Speaker System? The C2 has great reviews but is the cost difference really significant from the C5?

  4. Oops, I meant to ask if the sound system was worth spending about double the cost — What are your thoughts? (I specifically like a ton of bass). Thanks!

    1. Hey, Dennis. The R-S65C.2 is the updated item from Alpine. They improved it in several areas and if space is an issue (which it usually is in cars these days), the speakers are smaller and easier to install. Given the price difference between the old model and the new and improved, I would definitely think about going with the new Alpine R-S65C.2 component speakers instead.

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