Proper installation of acoustics in a car ensures the full sound of musical instruments and the singer’s voice. To achieve the effect of maximum proximity to natural sound, it is necessary to install speakers of different frequencies:
- low-frequency (subwoofer, midbass speakers);
- midrange speakers;
- high (twitter).
But many believe that the mid-bass can be covered by a combination of subwoofer and midrange speakers and get an acceptable result at the output: it plays loudly, and that’s the main thing! Why this is not so, read below.
What is midbass?
If you are about to improve the car audio in your car, do it wisely. If you start making hack work, you yourself will have to suffer later. But we digress.
So, midbass. These speakers are needed to transmit mid-frequency bass, from 80 to 400 Hz. They are an integral part of component car audio systems.
Help: component acoustics consists of individual speakers of different frequencies, spaced throughout the cabin. Unlike coaxial, where all frequencies are collected in one speaker, here the sound is denser and richer. Coaxial speakers, although cheaper, lose quality of reproduction due to their compactness: the frequencies are mixed, giving a “blurred” sound.
Typically, midbass speakers are located in the front of the car, in the doors. Tweeters are placed on the dashboard or A-pillars: they are responsible for the range of 5,000-20,000 Hz. The connection point for the subwoofer is the rear acoustic shelf . Its frequency maximum is 50-60 Hz. For midrange drivers, it doesn’t matter where they stand, on the rear shelf or in the doors.
The most popular woofer speaker sizes are 16 and 20 cm, but there are also 10 and 13 cm. The larger the diameter, the lower frequencies become available. High-quality midbass acoustics should have high performance in the following characteristics:
- frequency coverage;
- speaker power (N – minimum indicator, P – upper limit);
- sensitivity (the higher the resistance, the lower the power, but the clearer the sound).
Of course, without high-quality materials there can be no talk of good acoustics. The fewer resonating elements, the less rattling. When installing speakers, take care of the seals.
JBL Stage2 624
Midbass costing from 2,800 rubles have a stylish corporate design. Good low-frequency characteristics are due to a polypropylene low-frequency diffuser with high sensitivity and rigidity.
- Diffusers made of polypropylene.
- Good articulated sound at low frequencies.
- High quality mid frequencies.
- Sometimes there is not enough power.
- Not the best frame design.
Difference from bass
Woofers and subwoofers operate in the low frequency range, which is why they are similar. The difference between midbass speakers and bass speakers is that the subwoofer covers the lowest bass of 10-80 Hz (and “heavy” subs reach 50 or even 45 Hz), and midbass operates with frequencies from 80 Hz and above. There are other distinctive features.
- Installation. It is better to place mid-bass speakers on the front doors. The sub is fixed in the back: on the acoustic shelf;
- in a closed box (not the best choice);
- phase inverter (ZA with an acoustic tunnel that reduces resonance);
- rear shelf;
- acoustic shelf.
- When the subwoofer plays, the whole car vibrates. Rock music becomes especially rich and deep precisely because of the subwoofer.
To experience not just loud, but dense music, when each instrument sounds clear, you need to display all sound frequencies.
Audio System R R165
The mid-bass speakers of the famous German brand have a reduced impedance of 3 ohms, thanks to which it was possible to increase the power. The mid-bass speaker turned out to be quite compact and has a mounting depth of only 62 mm. The dome tweeter is 25 mm in diameter made of silk, and the low-frequency diffuser is made of Kevlar.
- Small installation depth.
- Low impedance.
- Rated power 90 W.
- Not the lowest price.
- Rarely found on sale.
Advantages and disadvantages
If you “forget” about midbass, you will get a huge sound gap when playing music. That is, the octave simply cannot be heard. Let's list what midbass brings with it:
- masculinity of male voices (instead of squeakiness);
- sounds of hardness, heaviness of the kick of the barrel;
- hitting the drum acquires color, and not just a thump, as if hitting a pillow;
- the bass guitar playing becomes tight.
Without the woofer, the music sounds like a “bang-bang”, with squeaky voices of the singers.
It would be unfair not to mention the shortcomings.
- Firstly, the price. A branded speaker costs around $300, although there are cheaper options.
- When installed in a door, an acoustic short circuit is possible if the fastening is not secured.
- Without purchasing an amplifier, you will not achieve sound effects.
An acoustics connoisseur will turn any negative into a positive, just to enjoy the rich sound.
Ural AS-D200 Armada NEO
Midbass 16 cm for 3,500 rubles have a pressed paper diffuser, fabric surrounds and ferrite magnets. With a rated power of 150 W, the peak figure reaches 300 W. Suitable for motorists who do not want to weigh down the doors when installing new acoustics.
- Lightweight speakers.
- Convenient connection.
- Nice build.
- No fasteners included.
- Dips at the lowest frequencies.
Popular vote
What car speakers would you choose or recommend?
Speaker Morel Maximo Coax-5
18.18 % ( 10 )
Speaker Alpine SPG-13C2
5.45 % ( 3 )
Speaker KENWOOD KFC-PS1395
10.91 % ( 6 )
AC Centek ST-8401-525
0.00 % ( 0 )
Speaker JVC CS-DR520
3.64 % ( 2 )
AC MYSTERY MC 543
3.64 % ( 2 )
Speaker Alpine SPG-13CS
9.09 % ( 5 )
Speaker Alpine SXE-1350S
7.27 % ( 4 )
Speaker SWAT SP-A5.2
5.45 % ( 3 )
Speaker KENWOOD KFC-E130P
3.64 % ( 2 )
Speaker Pioneer TS-G130C
18.18 % ( 10 )
Speaker JVC CS-V518J
1.82 % ( 1 )
Speaker Ural AS-BV130 BULAVA NEO
9.09 % ( 5 )
Which speakers are better to choose for a car?
The choice of speaker system directly depends on the musical preferences of the car owner. Fans of powerful bass will certainly be pleased with products from Pioneer. Midbass with a large amplitude and a polypropylene diffuser is tailored for electronic tracks, which are often listened to while outside, rather than inside, the car. Famous brands JBL, JVC, Alpine are leaders in natural sound. The Hertz line is a gift for a music lover who expects to hear the smallest details for little money when playing an instrumental concert or listening to his favorite piece.
Sets from other manufacturers, included in the rating of the best speakers with a diameter of 16 cm, according to motorists, have become the optimal replacement for standard music for budget speaker systems. Despite their modest power, the sound quality is head and shoulders above what car manufacturers set.
A review of columns from our editors is an independent opinion, supported by user experience. It will help you decide which speakers are best to buy and not make a mistake with your purchase.
How to properly install car audio
The best option for installing a speaker system in a car is considered to be the following: coaxial speakers are installed at the back, in the rear, and component speakers (tweeter and midbass) are installed at the front. Thus, it will be possible to provide full-fledged, real sound, which many car owners who have improperly organized car audio are waiting in vain.
Coaxial acoustics are always a cheaper option, considered by experts as a model for the undemanding car owner who only needs some sound. For example, the speakers play well, the sound is loud, nothing wheezes or growls. In this case, a little money will be enough to choose the best model among coaxials.
Bass acoustics
On the contrary, if a car owner is looking for something more serious, and is not limited to just the desire to get mediocre sound, he should pay attention to component acoustics. This one costs about 30 thousand rubles today. Of course, the KMP acoustics also include high-quality midbass.
For a music lover, good acoustics are akin to a car engine. Most modern cars do not have a good, real sound system installed. The only exceptions may be the top versions of cars. As a result, there is a desire to acquire new speakers, replace the head unit, install a powerful subwoofer, etc.
Cost of midbass speakers
The price for a pair of high-end midbass woofers is about $300. You can find cheaper products, in particular, for a pair of woofers (also called modbass) you can pay 50-80 dollars. How to decide which option is the best available? Is it possible to navigate by price? First of all, don't forget what size you need - 16 cm, 20 cm, 13 cm or 10 cm.
As practice shows, the best midbass is not always the most expensive. The most popular are 16 cm, 20 cm. Car audio stores offer a large number of options in different price categories. It turns out that the Ural midbass is capable of competing with many competitive models. Each of the proposed models has its own characteristics. First of all, it is taken into account what type of speaker - two- or three-way.
Midbass speaker
An important element is the diffuser and its type – low and mid-frequency. Depending on the material used for manufacturing, it has different damping properties.
Sound characteristics include:
- sensitivity;
- dynamic characteristics;
- sound detail;
- structured bass.
An important point when purchasing is also considered a compact design, suitable for installation in the interior of a modern car, suitable dimensions for 16 cm, 20 cm outlet diameter. Based on the listed properties, you can choose a model that is suitable for yourself, corresponding to a certain purchase budget. Which one should I take from the available ones?
Midbass acoustics
Is it worth buying
It's up to you to decide whether to buy midbass speakers or get by with a coaxial system, or install component acoustics without midbass. Informed - armed.
If you don’t buy it, then install a subwoofer with a larger frequency range and don’t cut the midrange drivers: then the loss of quality will be minimal.
To save money on your purchase, don’t chase brands. Pioneer, Alpine will cost a pretty penny, while little-known manufacturers make decent models.
Good sound to your car!
Friends will also be interested in this
Rating of the best 20 cm speakers for cars for 2022
Coaxial
Mystery MF 83
The best option for those who do not need very high-quality sound. A 20-centimeter device with a nominal rating of 100 W, a frequency range from 35 to 21000 Hz. The diffuser is made from Mylar. The suspension is made of NRB rubber. The basket is stamped.
How much do the products cost? You can purchase it at a price of 3,451 rubles.
Mystery MF 83
Advantages:
- Excellent sound clarity at high volumes;
- good bass;
- reasonable cost;
- versatility;
- durability;
- Uneven sound across channels is at a minimum.
Flaws:
- none.
Mystery MJ 830
The manufacturer has launched the production of three-way coaxial speaker systems at an affordable cost. A distinctive feature is noteworthy characteristics. Standard size – 20 centimeters, power – 40 W, frequency range – 28 – 30000 Hz, sensitivity reaches 87 dB/mW.
Cost: 900 rubles.
Mystery MJ 830
Advantages:
- good and balanced sound;
- high power and sensitivity;
- no HF and MF distortion;
- reasonable cost;
- ease of use;
- durability;
- reliability;
- no wheezing.
Flaws:
- not installed.
Pioneer TS-A 2013 I
The manufacturer produces high-quality and durable eight-inch three-way speakers. Rated power – 80 W, sensitivity – 91 bD, impedance – 4 Ohms. Can be mounted in seats of any cars. Frequency range up to 3000 Hz is suitable for the most demanding user. There are HF, MF and LF speakers. Installation depth – 89 mm. Included in the TOP of inexpensive but high-quality models.
Retailers offer products for 4,920 rubles.
Pioneer TS-A 2013 I
Advantages:
- three frequency bands;
- high-quality manufacturing;
- sound purity;
- cost/quality ratio;
- stylish appearance;
- no distortion at significant power;
- clear instructions;
- ease of installation;
- long service life.
Flaws:
- lacks bass;
- too many high frequencies;
- no protective grille is provided.
Alpine SXE – 2035s
Speakers 20 cm. Three-way speakers. The quality and reliability of the product has been tested by time and numerous users. Rated and maximum powers are 45 and 280 W, respectively. Neodymium magnet. Foam rubber suspension. The outer part is made of cellulose, silk dome on a rotary tweeter. Differs in power. Subwoofer technologies were used in the production of the suspension. Speakers can be installed at the bottom of the doors.
The average cost is 3181 rubles.
Alpine SXE – 2035s
Advantages:
- the power is worthy of respect;
- good bass;
- standard fastenings;
- ease of installation;
- ability to customize the equalizer of the head unit;
- virtually no distortion;
- the ability to order online in an online store;
- positive reviews;
- warranty period – 1 year;
- value for money.
Flaws:
- The quality of mid and high frequencies leaves much to be desired.
Component Models
Eton POW 200.2
The world's leading manufacturer supplies high quality two-component eight-inch speaker systems to the domestic market. It differs from its analogues in its modern design and progressive features. Belongs to the category of innovative systems. Equipped with an attractive branded rubber cap. 25mm aluminum-coated tweeter.
The average cost is 9400 rubles.
Eton POW 200.2
Advantages:
- good sound;
- the power is worthy of respect;
- overload capacity;
- virtually no distortion;
- the ability to order online in an online store;
- positive reviews;
- value for money.
Flaws:
- none.
Focal Integration ISU 200
A reliable and high-quality twenty-centimeter two-way kit falls into the category “suitable for everyone, everywhere.” Truly powerful and compact. The minimum dimensions were achieved by reducing the depth of the housing and the filters built into it. This makes it possible to easily and quickly connect it to the head unit. Innovative technologies were used in production. The tweeters are made of a new inverted aluminum-magnesium alloy, resulting in cleaner and higher frequencies. Maximum power – 160 W, sensitivity – 93 dB, impedance – 4 Ohms.
The product can be purchased for 9460 rubles.
Focal Integration ISU 200
Advantages:
- good and balanced sound;
- high power and sensitivity;
- perfect vocals;
- excellent crossovers;
- no HF and MF distortion;
- reasonable cost;
- ease of use;
- durability;
- reliability;
- absence of wheezing;
- good bass;
- If installed correctly, you might think that the car has a subwoofer installed.
Flaws:
- There may be drops of glue on the speaker basket.
Morel Elate TI 902
Eight-inch component speaker with a rated power of 200 W. Sensitivity 2.83 V/m, frequency range – 25 – 25000 Hz, standard impedance – 4 Ohms. There are two bands, an external crossover, high-frequency and low-frequency speakers. The design is rotating.
The average cost is 45,561 rubles.
Morel Elate TI 902
Advantages:
- excellent sound;
- practicality;
- functionality;
- versatility;
- reliability;
- long service life.
Flaws:
- none.
Case products
Mystery MJ 105 BX
The company has set itself the goal of equipping the market with inexpensive but high-quality equipment. The three-way case model AC MJ 105 BX is a device with acceptable characteristics at an affordable price. The frequency range will not delight music lovers, but the sound panorama is acceptable. The high-quality ABS plastic case is made in black, so it looks stylish. The convenience of the connectors makes it possible to spend a maximum of 10 minutes on installation.
The average cost is 1310 rubles.
Mystery MJ 105 BX
Advantages:
- “ridiculous” price;
- high sensitivity;
- simplicity of installation;
- compactness;
- ease of use;
- reliability.
Flaws:
- The installation depth of low frequencies leaves much to be desired.
Boss BRRF 40
A two-way speaker with Bluetooth and LED backlighting will appeal to many connoisseurs of convenience and quality. Maximum power – 1000 W. The design is classified as moisture resistant.
The product is sold at a price of 44,000 rubles.
Boss BRRF 40
Advantages:
- high-quality case;
- significant power;
- excellent sound;
- The manufacturer provides a 1 year warranty.
Flaws:
- overcharge.
Boss ATV 85 B
A good purchase for those who want to listen to high-quality music on long trips. The construction material is moisture-resistant, which significantly extends the service life of the product. There is Bluetooth and a 3.5 mm input.
The average cost is 21,500 rubles.
Boss ATV 85 B
Advantages:
- build quality;
- durability;
- positive reviews;
- the possibility of purchasing both at a specialized retail outlet and in an online store;
- reliability;
- practicality;
- ease of use.
Flaws:
- not identified.
Rockford Fosgate PM 282 W–B
The two-way 20-centimeter device is reliable and durable. Significant power of 100 W allows you to listen to music on roads with the worst surfaces. Suitable for installation on a yacht or boat. Not afraid of aggressive environments. The significant dimensions of the loudspeaker make it possible to enjoy your favorite melody in an open space, while the sound quality does not deteriorate.
The sellers are asking 45,000 rubles for the products.
Rockford Fosgate PM 282 W–B
Advantages:
- functionality;
- versatility;
- practicality;
- modern design;
- excellent sound.
Flaws:
- not found.
Subwoofers
JBL Stage 800BA
The active device is made of MDF and painted black. Designed for music lovers. There is a built-in sound amplifier. The rated power of the woofer is 100 W. Frequency range – from 30 to 200 Hz. The main feature is that it is equipped with an speaker cable for connecting to an audio system. The design is simple and functional. The presence of protective arches helps prevent mechanical damage to equipment and protects against impacts. The rear panel has a rotary audio control knob. Built-in Class D amplifier.
The product can be purchased at a price of 7,799 rubles.
JBL Stage 800BA
Advantages:
- high-quality sound;
- convenient operation;
- practicality;
- reliability;
- long service life;
- minimal energy consumption;
- does not heat up;
- equipped with a wired control panel;
- the presence of massive protective panels;
- convenient volume adjustment;
- undergoes rigorous testing;
- certified product;
- not afraid of ultraviolet radiation and high temperatures;
- affordable price;
- compactness.
Flaws:
- not installed.
Eton B 195 Neo
Single-band devices with a power of 150 W and a sensitivity of 88 dB. One 20-centimeter speaker with neodymium magnet. The manufacturer produces products for installation in BMW cars.
The average price is 14,250 rubles.
Eton B 195 Neo
Advantages:
- durability;
- functionality;
- practicality;
- value for money;
- build quality.
Flaws:
- limited scope of use.
JL Audio CP 208 LG – W 3 v 3
The company has launched the production of high-quality and reliable audio equipment for prestigious cars. An eight-inch device with a rated power of 500 W, impedance - 2 Ohms. Equipped with a bass reflex housing with dimensions 90.2 * 27.9 * 13 cm, two speakers.
The average cost is 69,800 rubles.
JL Audio CP 208 LG – W 3 v 3
Advantages:
- qualitative;
- reliable;
- will delight music lovers;
- the sound is worthy of respect;
- not afraid of mechanical damage;
- long service life.
Flaws:
- lack of built-in amplifier;
- expensive.
Alpine SBG – 844 BR
Considered a good purchase. For little money you can become the owner of a high-quality and practical product. The power is not significant, but sufficient for listening to any music. The bass reflex housing has dimensions: 275*283*325 mm. There is no built-in amplifier.
The average cost is 5370 rubles.
Alpine SBG – 844 BR
Advantages:
- does not take up much free space in the trunk;
- the bass is worthy of attention;
- pure play;
- no distortion;
- adequate cost;
- versatility;
- functionality;
- ease of use;
- ease of installation.
Flaws:
- not identified.
Hertz DBA 200.3
The eight-inch single-way subwoofer will appeal to lovers of calm melodies. Equipped with a case with a passive radiator and a built-in amplifier. Impedance – 4 Ohms. There is one woofer - speaker. The diffuser is made of water-repellent paper. Minimum service life is 2 years.
The average cost is 17,000 rubles.
Hertz DBA 200.3
Advantages:
- additional equipment – two passive radiators;
- warranty – 1 year;
- compactness;
- excellent power;
- clear sound;
- reliability;
- quality lows;
- excellent bass;
- no lag or hum;
- built-in amplifier;
- pressure;
- intelligent inclusion;
- adjusting settings.
Flaws:
- It’s inconvenient to connect power;
- must be installed in the trunk strictly in the middle;
- overpriced.
Midrange speakers
Ural AS – PT 200 Patriot Black Edition
Single-way mid-frequency speakers for cars are a budget option. Has a limited range of actions. Size – 8 inches, power – 180 W, sensitivity – 99 dB, impedance – 4 Ohms. Installation hole – 17.8 cm, installation depth – 9.1 cm.
The average price is 1850 rubles.
Ural AS – PT 200 Patriot Black Edition
Advantages:
- acceptable price-quality ratio;
- ease of use;
- practicality;
- easy to install;
- reliability.
Flaws:
- not installed.
Pride W 8 inches
The manufacturer pays attention to the quality of its products with significant power (300 W). A reliable and practical device at an affordable price has appeared on store shelves. There are no complaints from users.
The average price is 8450 rubles.
Pride W 8 inches
Advantages:
- convenient dimensions;
- easy to install;
- no significant restrictions;
- sound clarity is excellent;
- long service life.
Flaws:
- none.
Pride Solo 8
Mid-range eight-inch single-way speaker. Reproduces frequencies in the range from 125 to 8000 Hz, impedance – 3.2 Ohms, sensitivity – 97 W/m. Cellulose resonator. Users note good sound quality and ease of use.
The average price is 10,000 rubles.
Pride Solo 8
Advantages:
- easy to install;
- compact;
- durable;
- reliable;
- a good purchase.
Flaws:
- the price is a bit steep.
Edge Edpro 8 B – E 7
Single-band mid-frequency device belonging to the budget class. Midrange size – dynamics – 20 cm. The membrane is made of high-quality pressed cellulose. Equipped with a ferrite magnet. Frequency range – 150 – 10000 Hz, impedance – 4 Ohms.
The product can be purchased at specialized retail outlets at a price of 2,000 rubles.
Edge Edpro 8 B – E 7
Advantages:
- optimal combination of price and quality;
- reliability;
- ease of installation and use;
- build quality;
- acceptable sound;
- long service life;
- not afraid of environmental influences.
Flaws:
- none.
Broadband models
Avatar BBR – 80
A twenty-centimeter single-way speaker with a rated power of 50 W and a sensitivity of 91 Hz. The resonator is made of paper with a moisture-resistant coating. The range of uses is wide. Suitable for any class of car. Despite the “ridiculous” price (1990 rubles per unit), users have no complaints about the quality of the product.
Avatar BBR – 80
Advantages:
- easy and quick to install;
- easy to use;
- versatility;
- functionality;
- durability.
Flaws:
- not found.
Swat Pro GR – 88
The system is of the broadband type. It has the following indicators: impedance – 8 Ohms, sensitivity – 98 dB, power – 180 W. Suitable for cars of any brand. The owners of the device have no complaints about the purchase.
The average price is 2645 rubles.
Swat Pro GR – 88
Advantages:
- simple assembly;
- ease of use;
- warranty period – one year;
- versatility;
- reliability;
- small dimensions.
Flaws:
- not identified.
Ural AS – M 200 Molot
The wideband eight-inch speaker system is very popular among car enthusiasts due to its quality and ease of use. There is one band, sensitivity reaches 94 dB, installation hole - 185 mm, installation depth - 72 mm. Guaranteed service life - 2 years without breakdowns.
The average cost is 2022 rubles.
Ural AS – M 200 Molot
Advantages:
- The optimum ratio of price and quality;
- easy to install;
- convenient to use;
- reproduces sound quality;
- reliability;
- durability;
- positive reviews;
- functionality;
- versatility.
Flaws:
- none.
Component
Audison Prima APK 165
pros
- Not bad sound
- Build quality
- Availability
- Good reproduction detail
- Volume reserve
Minuses
- Cheap design
- Small set
From 13,800 ₽
The 16 cm component speaker rating will begin with a thoughtful set that provides high-quality and clear sound of music in the car. All elements are conveniently attached to their proper places and connected to the audio system via standard interfaces. Suitable for replacing standard speakers for most cars. The crossover frequency is 3.5 kHz.
Focal PS 165 FX
pros
- Decent quality
- Deep Bass
- Ability to separate all instruments in a track
- Magnesium membranes
- Crossover with advanced settings
Minuses
- Sometimes it's inconvenient to install
From 22,900 ₽
High-quality speakers with an aluminum basket and a FLAX composite sandwich as the main cone material. A neodymium magnet ensures reliable fastening in the right places, but it also sometimes creates problems during installation.
Alpine SPG-17CS
pros
- Transparent sound
- Workmanship
- Relatively low cost
- Wide range of Twitter installation options
Minuses
- There is a slight excess of frequencies in the lower register
From 6,000 ₽
Car acoustics installed in accordance with the amplifier used. Connecting directly to the head unit may simply not be effective. With proper door preparation and sound insulation, you get really good sound.
