Regarding car audio, the quality and performance of your speakers can make a big difference in your listening experience. If you’re particularly interested in improving the bass output of your system, it’s important to choose the right car speakers.
There are several factors to consider when selecting the best option. Researching and comparing different options can help you find a high-quality speaker that meets your needs and budget.
However, getting quality speakers for your car can be challenging, so which car speakers have excellent bass? Let’s find out.
The best speakers for bass have high-quality woofers made with rubber for flexibility, which can create intense bass and lightweight cones made from polypropylene or glass fiber.
Below are the best car speakers for bass that you can choose from:
Hertz MPX 165.3 PRO – 2-way coaxial 6.5″
Pioneer TS-Z65F – 2-way coaxial 6.5″
Hertz MPK 165.3 PRO – 2-way component 6.5″
Polk Audio MM 6502 – 2 way component 6.5″
Hertz MPX 690.3 PRO – 3-way coaxial 6×9″
Kicker 47KSC6904 – 2 way coaxial 6×9″
Infinity Kappa 693C – 2 way component 6×9″
Kicker 46CSS694 – 2 way component 6×9″
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Tip: To choose the best car speakers for bass, consider the following factors:
#1. Speaker size: Choose a speaker with a larger diameter for more bass output.
#2. Power handling: Select a speaker that can handle the wattage of your car’s audio system.
#3. Frequency response: Look for a speaker with a lower frequency range for improved bass reproduction.
#4. Design and construction: Choose a speaker with a sturdy, well-made design for durability.
#5. Cone and surround material: Select a speaker with a cone made of a stiff material such as polypropylene for improved bass response.
In the article below, I have gone into more detail about the best car speakers for bass, what to look for before buying one, and a few tips on how to get the best performance out of your system.
Benefits of Having Good Car Speakers for Bass
Here are the pros of buying the best speakers for bass:
#1. Enjoy your music better. Investing in quality bass speakers adds fine details you’ll miss with regular speakers. In addition, the more bass sound will give you a new musical experience, and you’ll feel it.
#2. With bass comes more power and sound dynamics. You can fine-tune the depth and frequency for a better listening experience.
#3. More bass gives you a chance to customize your sound quality. You can choose the best speakers with the right frequency, power, sensitivity, and so on to achieve your desired sound quality.
#4. The right amount of bass upgrades your sound quality. You’ll immediately notice an instant change in your sound quality if you replace your current speakers with bass models.
Which Are the Best Car Speakers for Bass?
Research can be challenging, especially when comparing many different parameters and trying to listen to the same songs produced by slightly different speakers.
This is why I made a list below where I share my best picks for car speakers with truly fantastic bass.
I spent 12 weeks on deep technical analysis for 80 different models and picked 24 for actual testing.
After testing those 24, I picked 8, two in each of the following categories, the best ones that provide outstanding bass. I have to admit it took a lot of work, and it was not an easy task.
However, it was worth it, so below are the absolute best standard car speakers for bass:
Best 6.5″ Coaxial Speakers for Bass
Hertz MPX 165.3 PRO
As someone who has enjoyed listening to Hertz MPX 165.3 PRO, I can say that these speakers are a fantastic choice for anyone looking to upgrade their car’s audio system.
First and foremost, the bass response on these speakers is absolutely stunning.
The 6-1/2″ pressed pulp/cotton fiber woofer with Boundary Free rubber surround produces a lot of bass without sacrificing quality, resulting in a clean and powerful sound that enhances the overall listening experience.
Whether you’re driving down the highway or parked at a stoplight, the bass on these speakers will definitely turn heads.
In addition to the impressive bass response, the Hertz MPX 165.3 PROs also offer a wide frequency range of 45-21,500 Hz, which means that all aspects of the audio spectrum are covered.
The 1″ Tetolon dome tweeter also does an excellent job of handling the higher frequencies, resulting in a well-rounded and detailed soundstage.
Installation is straightforward, and the speakers fit perfectly with the mounting holes. The top-mount depth of 2-9/16″ is also very convenient, as it allows for easy integration into a wide range of vehicle types.
The grilles are not included with the speakers, but this is a minor issue and can quickly be resolved with an aftermarket grille kit. If you want to install them in the door, most cars do not need grilles.
One of the things that sets the Hertz MPX 165.3 PROs apart from other car speakers is the attention to detail that has gone into their design.
The Tetolon fiber dome tweeter is integrated flush at the base of the woofer cone rather than on a post jutting out from the woofer. This concentric design, which is highly regarded by audiophiles in home speakers, minimizes phase problems for a natural timbre and detailed soundstage.
The “Boundary Free” rubber surround, designed to move more air with accuracy, also plays a vital role in the sound of these speakers. In addition, superior damping minimizes resonance, reducing distortion for a true-to-life sound.
The Hertz MPX 165.3 PRO car speakers are a top-notch choice for anyone looking to upgrade their audio system. They offer an impressive bass response, a wide frequency range, and a detailed soundstage while being easy to install.
If you’re in the market for a new set of car speakers, give the Hertz MPX 165.3 PROs a try, and you won’t be disappointed.
Pioneer TS-Z65F
As a car audio enthusiast, I always look for the best speakers to add to my ride. So when I came across the Pioneer TS-Z65F (link to Amazon), I was immediately impressed by their impressive specs and reputation for delivering high-quality sound.
First off, these are 2-way car speakers that come in a pair and feature a 6-1/2″ Twaron fiber woofer with a butyl rubber surround.
The Twaron fiber is lightweight, heat-resistant, incredibly strong, and stable, making it perfect for reproducing clear, powerful sound.
The butyl rubber surround helps to enhance the bass response, giving you a fuller, more immersive listening experience.
The TS-Z65F speakers also come with a 1-1/8″ aluminum tweeter that helps to reproduce the highest frequencies in your music with incredible accuracy. This means that you’ll be able to hear all the overtones and harmonics in your favorite tracks, giving you a more authentic listening experience.
In terms of power handling, these speakers can handle up to 110 watts RMS and up to 330 watts peak power, which makes them perfect for use with an aftermarket amplifier. Trust me. The amp can bring out their full potential.
The frequency range of these speakers is also impressive, with a range of 32-96,000 Hz, which is well beyond the range of most other car speakers on the market.
The top-mount depth of these speakers is also relatively shallow at just 2-5/8″, making them easy to install in most vehicles.
I was never a fan of Pioneer speakers, but I’m incredibly impressed with the Pioneer TS-Z65F.
They offer excellent power handling, an impressive frequency range, and a high level of sensitivity, making them perfect for any car audio enthusiast looking to upgrade their sound system.
The only downside is that these speakers need to be used with an amplifier to reach their full potential, so be prepared to invest in one if you want to get the most out of them.
However, these are some of the best car speakers I’ve ever used, and I highly recommend them to anyone looking to improve the sound in their vehicle.
Best 6.5″ Component Speakers for Bass:
Hertz MPK 165.3 PRO
I was excited to try the Hertz MPK 165.3 PRO (link to Amazon). They are part of the Mille Series, Hertz’s line of premium audio products.
The component system includes 2 woofers, 2 tweeters, and 2 external crossovers, all designed to deliver exceptional sound quality.
One of the standout features of the MPK 165.3 PRO speakers is their 6-1/2″ pressed pulp woofers with Boundary Free rubber surrounds. These surroundings allow the woofers to move more air accurately, resulting in a more impactful low-frequency response.
The V-cone design of the woofers also improves dispersion and helps provide deep, rich bass tones. The rubber surrounds also do a great job of minimizing resonance and reducing distortion, resulting in a truer-to-life sound.
The MPK 165.3 PRO speakers also feature Tetolon dome tweeters, which are known for their clarity and smooth response.
Hertz includes tweeter-level control, so you can adjust the highs to match your system. This is an excellent feature for fine-tuning the overall sound of your speakers.
In terms of power handling, the MPK 165.3 PRO speakers can handle up to 110 watts RMS (220 watts peak power). They also have a wide frequency range of 40-22,500 Hz and a sensitivity of 92 dB.
These impressive specs show that these speakers can deliver high-quality sound across various frequencies.
One thing to note is the woofer top-mount depth of 2-1/2″. This may be a concern for some users who have limited space in their vehicles for speakers. However, the MPK 165.3 PRO speakers are an excellent choice for those with enough room for large magnets.
In my personal experience with these speakers, they were outstanding. I had them running on an Audison SR 4.500 (link to Amazon) and could fine-tune the sound to my liking by bringing down the treble and raising the mid-tones for balance.
The result was a crystal clear sound with good enough bass for my music.
Overall, I recommend the Hertz MPK 165.3 PRO to anyone looking for top-notch audio quality in their vehicle. Admittedly, they are a bit of an indulgence, but in my opinion, they are worth it for the enjoyment they bring to my daily drive.
Polk Audio MM 6502
If you’re in the market for new car speakers, you’ll want to consider the Polk Audio MM 6502(link to Amazon).
These speakers sound simply amazing. The highs are crystal clear, even at high volume, and the bass tones are top-notch. They claim to play as low as 35Hz, and I do believe them.
I’ve listened to various genres on these speakers, including dubstep, hip-hop, and 80’s metal. Each one has been reproduced accurately and with great detail. The crunchy guitar riffs and bass really stand out, making for a truly immersive listening experience.
One of the things I love about the MM 6502 is that they can handle a lot of power.
They’re rated for up to 125 watts RMS (375 watts peak power), so you can crank up the volume without worrying about distortion. And despite all that power, the speakers remain cool thanks to their well-ventilated carbon baskets.
But it’s not just the sound quality that makes these speakers stand out. They’re also built to last, with non-corrosive fiberglass reinforced ABS basket and waterproof surrounds.
They even have weep holes to allow for proper drainage, making them ideal for marine use (they have an IP56 rating).
And the epoxy-coated crossovers ensure that the highs and lows are accurately separated, resulting in a more balanced sound.
With a frequency response of 35-40,000 Hz and a sensitivity of 93 dB, these speakers can deliver excellent sound quality across a wide range of frequencies.
The Polk Audio MM 6502 car speakers are some of the best I’ve ever used, but the highs are too crispy for my ears.
They sound amazing, are built to last, and can handle a lot of power. So if you’re looking for high-quality speakers that can really bring your music to life, I recommend giving these a try.
Best 6×9″ Coaxial Speakers for Bass:
Hertz MPX 690.3 PRO
Are you looking for an audio upgrade with a 6×9 size? The set of Hertz MPX 690.3 PRO (link to Amazon) is a great choice.
As a 3-way speaker system, these speakers deliver a well-rounded and detailed soundstage that fills the missing mid-bass frequencies often lacking in car audio systems.
One of the standout features of these speakers is the 6 “x9” pressed pulp and cotton fiber woofer with Boundary Free rubber surround.
This combination provides a powerful and accurate sound that brings your music to life.
The 1-1/2″ Tetolon dome tweeter and 1″ Tetolon super tweeter also contribute to the overall quality of the sound, extending the frequency range and adding clarity and detail to the high end.
In terms of power handling, the Hertz MPX 690.3 PRO car speakers can handle up to 130 watts RMS and peak power of 260 watts, making them capable of delivering impressive volume and clarity, but remember, install a solid amp to give them real power.
The frequency range of these speakers is also impressive, with a range of 30-24,000 Hz. The sensitivity of these speakers is also noteworthy, with a rating of 94 dB, making them capable of delivering a powerful and dynamic sound even at lower volume levels.
Overall, the Hertz MPX 690.3 PRO car speakers are a top-quality choice for anyone who upgrades their car’s audio system.
With their powerful and detailed sound, these speakers are sure to bring your music to life and make your daily drive a more enjoyable experience.
Whether you’re a fan of bass-heavy music or more acoustic sounds, the Hertz MPX 690.3 PRO car speakers have the power and clarity to deliver a truly immersive listening experience.
Kicker 47KSC6904
Another set you will want to try is the Kicker 47KSC6904 (link to Amazon).
These 2-way speakers are perfect for adding some serious bass to your ride, and with a frequency range of 30-21,000 Hz, you’ll be able to hear every note with crystal clear clarity.
The 6 “x9″ polypropylene woofer cone with rubber surround delivers a natural sound with a satisfying low end. At the same time, the 1” silk dome tweeter ensures that all the vocal and instrumental details in your music come through smoothly.
These speakers can handle up to 150 watts RMS (300 watts peak power), so you’ll be able to crank up the volume without distortion.
One of the standout features of the Kicker 47KSC6904 is their sensitivity.
These speakers are designed to be highly sensitive, meaning that they can produce hefty volume even when powered by a low-powered factory radio.
So, even if you’re not planning on swapping out your factory radio or adding an amp, you’ll still enjoy excellent sound quality with these speakers.
I have used the Kicker 47KSC6904 as rear fill speakers in my car, and they have far exceeded my expectations.
The midbass feels like a subwoofer, and the overall sound quality is much crisper and more precise than stock speakers.
After a trial with the stereo, I did decide to add an amp to bring these speakers to life, and it was definitely worth it.
They have so much more punch and power now, and I can feel the bass in my chest.
Overall, I recommend the Kicker 47KSC6904 to anyone looking to upgrade their audio system. The bass tones are fantastic, and the overall sound quality is much better than I expected.
Plus, the sensitivity of these speakers means that you don’t necessarily need to upgrade your factory radio or add an amp to enjoy the excellent sound quality.
Give them a try, and you’ll be blown away by the difference they make in your car’s audio.
Best 6×9″ Component Speakers for Bass:
Infinity Kappa 693C
Infinity Kappa 693C (link to Amazon) does not need an introduction. I was expecting them to be on my top ones, and they are.
These speakers are part of Infinity’s Kappa Series, designed with audiophile tastes in mind, and use proprietary technology and premium materials to produce uncompromised audio.
One of the standout features of the Infinity Kappa 693C is its edge-driven silk dome tweeters.
These tweeters provide a smooth, open response and minimal distortion at high volumes.
With a frequency response that peaks at 40,000 Hz, you’ll hear all the details in your music and truly experience a new level of sound quality in your car.
Plus, the separate crossovers have a control button that lets you adjust the tweeter level to your liking.
In addition to the impressive tweeters, the Infinity Kappa 693C also features Plus One+ woofer technology, and this is actually the key point for this review.
The glass fiber woofer cone can hold its shape under high power, resulting in punchy and defined bass. The glass fiber material is also lightweight, so you don’t need a lot of power to drive these woofers.
The Plus One+ technology extends the cone right up to the edge of the basket, giving you more surface area for more bass and complementing the superior high-frequency response.
The external crossovers for the Infinity Kappa 693C are also of premium quality, using only the best components to shape the distinctive Kappa sound and bring out all the details in your music.
Crossovers are flexible and can easily accommodate an upgrade to a 3-way system if you want to add Infinity’s optional 203S and 303S midrange drivers.
One of the significant benefits of the Infinity Kappa 693C is its power handling capabilities.
With a 3-ohm impedance and ultra-high sensitivity, these speakers can be powered by a factory radio or aftermarket stereo, but they really shine when fed plenty of power from an outboard amp.
Either way, these speakers can safely take advantage of every watt of power available, resulting in an exceptional performance at any volume.
The Infinity Kappa 693C car speakers are a top-of-the-line choice for those looking for the best audio quality.
With their edge-driven silk dome tweeters, Plus One+ woofer technology, and premium crossovers, these speakers are sure to provide an unparalleled listening experience.
Plus, their impressive power handling and flexibility make them a versatile choice for various setups.
Kicker 46CSS694
The Kicker 46CSS694 is another excellent 6×9 component system worth considering. They deliver outstanding sound quality, especially when it comes to bass.
If you’re not investing in a separate subwoofer, these speakers will give you the bass you want. One of the things that impressed me about these speakers is how well they handle the lowest tones.
Even when I turn the bass level up on my EQ, the 6x9s can keep up and deliver a clean, punchy sound. I’ve even noticed that the bass is so powerful that it vibrates my side mirrors, and I can feel it on my leg.
In terms of overall sound quality, these speakers are fantastic.
The titanium dome tweeter does an excellent job of delivering clear, crisp highs. At the same time, the polypropylene woofer handles the lower frequencies with ease.
The external crossover network with three tweeter levels (0, +3, +6 dB) is also a nice touch, allowing you to fine-tune the overall sound to your liking.
One thing you have to remember is that these speakers do require an amplifier to get the most out of them. And with a power handling of up to 150 watts RMS (450 watts peak power) and a frequency response of 30-21,000 Hz, these speakers can handle some serious power.
Overall, I recommend the Kicker 46CSS694 to anyone searching for bass and clarity but more on a budget side.
They blew me away with their performance, and I’m confident they’ll do the same for you. The component speaker system includes 2 woofers, 2 tweeters, and 2 crossovers, and the top-mount depth is 3-3/16″.
The Kicker is known for their attention to vehicle fit and quality, and these speakers are no exception. Plus, with a sensitivity of 90 dB, they’re sure to be loud and clear even at higher volumes.
What to Look for When Buying Car Speakers for Bass?
Cars do much more than get us from one destination to another. One of the other essential features of a vehicle is that it provides entertainment.
The car’s audio system is the primary entertainment source, and you need to ensure that you have the best speakers in your vehicle.
Getting the best speakers for bass to fit in your car can be difficult because speakers come in different sizes, shapes, types, etc. Therefore, you must research before settling on the speaker you will buy.
#1. Type of Speakers
Speakers come in different types. For example, there are full-range, component, or coaxial speakers. You need to understand each type’s pros and cons to decide which fits your needs best.
The full-range speakers usually have all the components in one set. These include the woofer, tweeter, super tweeter, and mid-range, all in one basket. They are all packed in one system.
You should go for the coaxial (or full-range) speakers if you want to mount your system without hassle.
This is because they are the simplest to install and they are inexpensive. In most cases, you only need to remove the old speaker and mount the new one.
On the other hand, component speakers feature separate tweeters, woofers, and external crossovers that work together to give you the best sound experience.
The speakers utilize a unique feature that works together to provide you with the best sound experience in your car. They, however, come at a much higher price than the full-range speakers.
The tweeter is placed separately from the woofer so that you can install it in the best position. As such, the sound in your car will sound more realistic and in-depth.
The crossover is different from the tweeter and the woofer for better reproduction of frequencies.
#2. Design and Construction
The design and construction of a speaker is an important factor to consider when choosing car speakers for bass.
A speaker with a sturdy, well-made design will be more durable and less likely to fail or produce distorted sound, even at high volumes or intense bass.
When evaluating the design and construction of a speaker, you should look for features such as a solid frame, a sturdy magnet, and a robust suspension system.
These features ensure that the speaker can withstand the stresses of use and deliver consistent, high-quality sound.
Additionally, a well-designed speaker will typically have a more attractive appearance, which can be important when speakers are exposed.
#3. Speaker Size
Another critical factor for bass is the size of the speaker. Generally speaking, a larger speaker diameter will result in more bass output.
This is because a larger speaker can move more air, which is necessary to produce the low-frequency sounds associated with bass.
However, remember that the speaker’s size is appropriate for the space available in your car. If the speaker is too large, it may not fit properly or interfere with other components.
To find the right size speaker for your car, you may need to measure the available space and compare it to the dimensions of the speaker you are considering.
#4. Speakers’ Sensitivity
Sensitivity refers to the amount of sound a speaker can produce at a certain distance.
If your car’s stereo is high-powered or the vehicle has a good soundproofing level, then you can consider speakers of lower sensitivity.
On the other hand, if the speakers are low-powered, there is much engine noise in the car, or worse, it is a convertible, you should consider speakers with higher sensitivity.
#5. Power Handling
The power handling capability of a speaker refers to the maximum amount of power (measured in watts) that the speaker can handle without being damaged.
When choosing car speakers for bass, select a speaker that can handle the wattage of your car’s audio system. If the speaker is underpowered, it may not be able to take the volume or bass output that you desire.
On the other hand, if the speaker is overpowered, it may be damaged or produce a distorted sound, so you must match the speakers with an amplifier accordingly.
#6. Frequency Response
The frequency response of a speaker refers to the range of frequencies (measured in Hertz) that the speaker can reproduce.
When choosing car speakers for bass, you should look for a speaker with a frequency response of around 40 Hz for decent bass.
However, if you do not want to use a subwoofer, consider a speaker with a frequency response that starts at 30 Hz or 35 Hz, but those may require a strong amplifier.
#7. Cone and Surround Material
In addition to the size and power handling capability, the material used in the construction of the cone and surround can also impact the bass response of a speaker.
The cone and surround are responsible for helping the speaker produce sound waves, and the material used in their construction can affect the stiffness and free movement of the cone.
For improved bass response, select a speaker with a cone made of a stiff material such as polypropylene. A more rigid cone is less prone to distortion and can produce more accurate sound waves.
Other materials often used in the construction of car speaker cones include paper, Kevlar, and ceramic.
The surrounding material can also play a role in the bass response of a speaker. The surround helps to hold the cone in place and allows it to move freely.
Some commonly used materials in speaker surround include foam or rubber. Each has its unique characteristics and can affect the speaker’s sound in different ways.
#8. Speakers Configuration and Compatibility
Some speakers are more compatible with some car models than others. Therefore, before purchasing a set of speakers, you should provide the car’s make, model, and year of manufacture.
This is important, especially for the mounting speakers. If you can install only shallow-mounted speakers, you should not research models with large, heavy magnets.
#9. Cost
Before deciding on the best speakers for bass to use in your car, you should set up a budget for it.
Of course, the more you pay, the better the quality of sound you expect to get. However, you should be careful so that you will not be paying for the company’s name instead of the quality of sound that the speaker produces.
Before buying any speaker, you should check other customers’ reviews about the product, but more importantly, you should listen to them. This will give some information that the manufacturer’s specifications won’t reveal.
With all that information, you can compare all the speakers you have and decide which gives you value for your money.
Conclusion
There are several factors to consider when choosing the best car speakers for bass.
These include the size of the speaker, the power handling capability, the frequency response, the design and construction, and the material used in the cone and surround.
Researching and comparing different options can help you find a high-quality speaker that meets your needs and budget.
Considering these factors, you can ensure you get the best possible bass response from your car audio system.
FAQ
Will My Factory Stereo Power New Aftermarket Speakers?
In most instances, stock radio will be a bare minimum for the car speakers because of low power output. The aftermarket speakers will sound much better when powered by an aftermarket amplifier.
What Is the Advantage of Choosing Component Speakers Over Full-Range Speakers?
You will get better imaging and a more detailed and dynamic sound with adequately powered components.
The separate crossover networks will route the highs and lows, making your system sound at its best. Installing the separate tweeter closer to your ear brings out a certain level of detail that will surprise you.
How Difficult Is It to Install My New Speakers?
In most cases, a new pair of aftermarket speakers is the easiest to install.
Most new speakers will come with a user manual that will guide you on installing them, and you do not require special skills to install new aftermarket speakers.
Do I Need New Wire to Connect New Aftermarket Speakers?
You do not need new wires if you plan on powering your new aftermarket speakers with the factory stereo. In those cases, you can use factory installation.
However, if you plan on installing an external amplifier with 50 watts RMS or more, you should get new speaker wires.
What Size Speaker Should I Choose for the Best Bass Response?
The size of the speaker is an important factor to consider when choosing car speakers for bass.
In general, larger speaker diameters will produce more bass output due to their ability to move more air and make lower-frequency sounds. For example, 6.5″ speakers will make better bass than 5.25″ with the same power.
What Frequency Response Should I Look For in a Speaker for Good Bass Response?
The frequency response of a speaker refers to the range of frequencies (measured in Hertz) that the speaker can reproduce.
When choosing car speakers for bass, selecting a speaker with a lower frequency range is important.
As you know, bass sounds are in the lowest frequency range, and a speaker with a lower frequency response will be better able to reproduce these sounds.
Generally, you should look for a speaker with a frequency response of around 40 Hz for decent bass. However, if you’re looking for even more bass, consider a speaker with a frequency response that starts at 30 Hz or 35 Hz.
What Is the Best Material for the Cone and Surround of a Speaker for Good Bass Response?
The material used in the cone and surround can also impact the bass response of a speaker.
The cone and surround are responsible for helping the speaker produce sound waves, and the material used in their construction can affect the stiffness and movement of the cone.
For improved bass response, selecting a speaker with a cone made of a stiff material such as polypropylene is generally recommended because a more rigid cone is less prone to distortion and can produce more accurate sound waves.
Other materials often used for car speaker cones include paper, Kevlar, and ceramic.
The surrounding material can also play a role in the bass response of a speaker. Some commonly used materials in speaker surrounds include foam and rubber.
Each of these has unique characteristics and can affect the speaker’s sound.