What are the best speakers for a car?

We stock a wide range of car speakers, so choosing the ‘best’ car speakers often comes down to your personal preference. Sure, there are high-end component speakers that offer the best live sound, but these often come with a higher price tag that not everyone can afford. When choosing your new car speakers, think about the type of system you want to install along with build quality and speaker material.

If you’re looking for easy functionality and a simple set-up, full-range speakers or a micro amplifier will provide you with the boost you need to enjoy your music on the road. For true music lovers who want a more ‘live’ and dynamic sound, component speakers will give your tunes the credit they deserve, but come with a higher price tag and a more complex fitting process. But don’t worry, because we also offer to fit your car speakers for you at your local Halfords store.

There are two main specifications to consider when choosing your next car speakers that will have a positive impact on the overall sound quality:

Sensitivity

The sensitivity of a speaker is measured to identify how it converts power (watts) into volume (decibels). The rating is measured in decibels and the higher the rating the louder the speakers play.

Most factory-installed car stereos are fitted with low-powered speakers (15 watts RMS per channel) or less. If your car is fitted with a low-powered stereo, speakers with high sensitivity ratings of over 90dB will be most suited to your stereo. Alternatively, high-powered stereo systems with 16 watts RMS or more will benefit from speakers with a low sensitivity rating.

Replacement speakers with a high sensitivity level will also work best if your car is fitted with an anemic factory stereo. And if you’re working with a high-powered external amp, speakers with a low sensitivity level are the ones to go for.

Power handling 

How much power a speaker can handle is measured in watts and is known as power handling. Though it sounds technical, it ensures your speakers are capable of handling the power that your stereo or external amplifier produces. This is why many people prefer to buy a new stereo before looking at speakers.

The rating consists of two numbers. The lower number is the minimum wattage required to get the desired sound from the speaker, whereas the higher number is the amount the speaker can handle for an extended time. When looking for new car speakers, you should match your power source level to the speaker’s recommended range (RMS).

The best car speaker brands

Pioneer

Pioneer is a leading car audio brand and their speakers are among our best sellers. Pioneer car speakers are easy to install and provide excellent sound quality when paired with a matching head unit. They are also a great option if you're looking to upgrade your standard car speakers to improve the sound. We offer a great range of Pioneer coaxial speakers with a choice of RMS power and sizes.

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Vibe

Vibe allows customers to completely transform their car speaker system. Vibe Optisound speakers are car specific, fitting seamlessly into door panels. They have bespoke details to ensure the best sound clarity regardless of the shape and size of your car. With a choice of coaxial speakers, component speakers and complete speaker kits, Vibe offers the ultimate upgrade package to experience a ‘real-life’ sound.

Another plus point with Vibe speakers and their installation kits is that they are simple to install. They are also invisible once installed, making them perfect for lease hire or company cars. And if you sell your car, they can easily be removed without any damage.

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