Selecting the right speakers for your car can dramatically improve your driving experience. Upgrading the audio system transforms mundane commutes into enjoyable listening sessions, making every journey more pleasurable. The perfect set of speakers deliver clarity, depth, and power, bringing your favorite music to life. However, with countless options available, finding the ideal fit for your vehicle and preferences can feel overwhelming.
Why Upgrade to 6x8 Inch Car Speakers?
Many vehicles come equipped with standard factory-installed speakers that often lack the quality needed for true audiophiles. These stock systems typically use inexpensive materials and basic designs, resulting in poor sound reproduction, especially at higher volumes. Upgrading to higher-quality aftermarket speakers addresses these limitations, providing numerous benefits: Enhanced Sound Quality: Aftermarket speakers use superior materials and advanced engineering to deliver clearer highs, richer mids, and deeper bass. Increased Power Handling: These speakers are designed to handle more power from your car's stereo or amplifier, allowing you to crank up the volume without distortion. Improved Durability: High-quality speakers are built to last, with robust construction that withstands the harsh conditions inside a vehicle, such as temperature fluctuations and vibrations. Customizable Sound: With a wide range of brands and models available, you can choose speakers that match your specific sound preferences, whether you prefer booming bass or crisp, clear vocals. Better Value:While aftermarket speakers require an initial investment, the improved audio experience and longevity offer excellent long-term value.
Top 6x8 Car Speaker Options
Here's a curated list of some of the best 6x8 inch car speakers on the market, along with key features, pros, cons, and ideal applications. These speakers have been selected based on sound quality, power handling, durability, and overall value.
1. JBL GTO8629 Premium 6x8-Inch Co-Axial Speakers
Overview: The JBL GTO8629 speakers are a popular choice known for their exceptional clarity and high power handling. These coaxial speakers feature a carbon-injected cone and edge-driven tweeters for superior sound reproduction across a wide frequency range.
Key Features
Carbon-injected cone for stiffness and reduced distortion
Edge-driven tweeters for smooth, clear highs
Plus One woofer cone design for more cone area and enhanced bass
3-ohm impedance to maximize power from your car stereo
Pros
Excellent sound clarity and detail
High power handling for loud, dynamic sound
Easy to install in most vehicles
Competitive price point
Cons
Bass response might be lacking for some listeners without an additional subwoofer.
Ideal For: Those seeking a significant upgrade in sound clarity and detail without breaking the bank. Perfect for listeners who appreciate balanced sound and clear vocals.
2. Infinity Kappa 86CFX 6x8" Two-Way Car Speakers
Overview: The Infinity Kappa 86CFX speakers are designed for audiophiles who demand exceptional sound quality and premium features. These speakers utilize advanced materials and innovative design to deliver a rich, detailed, and immersive listening experience.
Key Features
Glass fiber woofer cone for exceptional stiffness and damping
Edge-driven textile dome tweeters for smooth, natural highs
Adjustable tweeter level for fine-tuning the sound to your preferences
High power handling for loud and dynamic sound
Pros
Incredible sound quality with exceptional detail and clarity
Adjustable tweeter level for customized sound
Premium materials for long-lasting performance
Cons
Higher price point compared to other options
Requires more power to perform optimally, consider an amplifier
Ideal For: Discerning listeners who prioritize sound quality above all else. Great for those with amplified systems who want the best possible audio experience.
3. Rockford Fosgate Punch P1683 6x8" 3-Way Coaxial Car Speakers
Overview: The Rockford Fosgate Punch P1683 speakers are a solid all-around choice, delivering balanced sound and reliable performance. These 3-way coaxial speakers feature a polypropylene cone, a silk dome tweeter, and a midrange driver for enhanced sound reproduction across the frequency spectrum.
Key Features
Polypropylene cone for durability and accurate sound reproduction
Silk dome tweeter for smooth, detailed highs
Integrated midrange driver for enhanced vocal clarity
Vertical Attach Surround Technique (VAST) increases cone radiating area
Pros
Balanced sound with good clarity and bass response
Durable construction for long-lasting performance
Affordable price point
Cons
Not as refined as some of the higher-end options
Might lack the power handling for extremely loud systems
Ideal For: Those looking for a reliable and balanced upgrade from their factory speakers without spending a fortune. Suitable for a wide range of music genres and listening preferences.
4. Kenwood KFC-C6896PS 6x8" 3-Way Car Speakers
Overview: The Kenwood KFC-C6896PS speakers are designed to deliver powerful and dynamic sound, making them a great choice for those who enjoy listening to music at high volumes. These 3-way speakers feature a water-resistant paper cone, a balanced dome tweeter, and a super tweeter for enhanced high-frequency response.
Key Features
Water-resistant paper cone for durability and weather resistance
Balanced dome tweeter for clear and detailed highs
Super tweeter for extended high-frequency response
Sound Field Enhancer for improved sound imaging
Pros
Powerful and dynamic sound
Extended high-frequency response
Water-resistant construction for added durability
Cons
Bass response may be slightly lacking for some listeners
Design may not be for everyone
Ideal For: Listeners who prefer loud and dynamic sound with crisp highs. Suitable for open-top vehicles where weather resistance is a plus.
5. Pioneer TS-A688F 6"x8" 4-Way Speakers
Overview: The Pioneer TS-A688F speakers offer a comprehensive audio solution with their 4-way design, providing a broad frequency response and detailed sound reproduction. These speakers are a good option for those seeking an all-in-one upgrade for their car's audio system.
Key Features
Carbon and Mica reinforced IMPP woofer cone for rigidity and low distortion
PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) balanced dome tweeter
Aramid Fiber Midrange Cone
Conex Damper for wider frequency response
Pros
Good all-around performance with balanced sound
Wide frequency response for detailed sound reproduction
Easy to install
Cons
May not satisfy audiophiles seeking top-tier performance
Bass response may require supplementation with a subwoofer
Ideal For: Individuals looking for a well-rounded audio upgrade without a complex setup. Great for diverse music tastes.
Comparison Table
| Feature | JBL GTO8629 | Infinity Kappa 86CFX | Rockford Fosgate P1683 | Kenwood KFC-C6896PS | Pioneer TS-A688F |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| ------------------- | --------------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------ | ------------------------------------------- | -------------------------------------------- | --------------------------------------------- |
| Speaker Type | Coaxial | Two-Way Component | 3-Way Coaxial | 3-Way Coaxial | 4-Way Coaxial |
| Woofer Material | Carbon-Injected Cone | Glass Fiber Cone | Polypropylene Cone | Water-Resistant Paper Cone | Carbon and Mica reinforced IMPP woofer cone |
| Tweeter Material | Edge-Driven | Edge-Driven Textile Dome | Silk Dome | Balanced Dome | PET balanced dome |
| Power Handling | 60W RMS (180W Peak) | 75W RMS (225W Peak) | 55W RMS (110W Peak) | 80W RMS (360W Peak) | 80W RMS (350W Peak) |
| Impedance | 3 Ohms | 2.5 Ohms | 4 Ohms | 4 Ohms | 4 Ohms |
| Frequency Response | 50Hz - 21k Hz | 45Hz - 35k Hz | 55Hz - 20k Hz | 63Hz - 24k Hz | 32 Hz to 28 k Hz |
| Price Range | Mid-Range | High-End | Budget-Friendly | Mid-Range | Mid-Range |
| Best For | Overall Clarity and Value | Sound Quality and Customization | Balanced Sound and Durability | Powerful Sound and Weather Resistance | Comprehensive Audio Solution |
Factors to Consider Before Buying
Choosing the right 6x8 car speakers involves considering several factors to ensure compatibility with your vehicle and satisfaction with the sound quality.
Vehicle Compatibility: Use online tools or consult a car audio specialist to verify that the speakers fit your vehicle's make and model. Consider mounting depth and speaker adapter brackets if needed. Power Handling: Match the RMS power rating of the speakers to the output of your car stereo or amplifier. Overpowering speakers can cause damage, while underpowering them can result in weak sound. Speaker Type: Coaxial speakers combine the woofer and tweeter into a single unit, making them easy to install and ideal for replacing factory speakers. Component speakers separate the woofer and tweeter for better sound staging and imaging, but they require more complex installation. Sensitivity: Higher sensitivity ratings (measured in d B) indicate that the speakers can produce more sound with less power. If you're using a low-powered car stereo, choose speakers with high sensitivity. Frequency Response: A wider frequency response range means that the speakers can reproduce a broader range of frequencies, from deep bass to crisp highs. Materials: Look for speakers made with durable materials like polypropylene, carbon fiber, and silk to ensure long-lasting performance. Budget: Set a budget and stick to it. There are excellent speaker options available at various price points, so you can find something that meets your needs without overspending. Sound Preference: Consider your personal listening preferences. Do you prefer booming bass, crisp highs, or a balanced sound? Choose speakers that match your specific taste.
Installation Tips
Installing new speakers can be a DIY project, but professional installation is recommended if you're not comfortable working with car electronics.
Gather Your Tools: You'll need basic tools like screwdrivers, wire strippers, crimpers, and a multimeter. Disconnect the Battery: Always disconnect the negative terminal of your car battery before working on the electrical system. Remove the Factory Speakers: Carefully remove the door panels or other trim pieces to access the factory speakers. Disconnect the speaker wires. Install the New Speakers: Connect the new speakers to the factory wiring harness using speaker adapters or by splicing the wires. Secure the speakers in place using screws or mounting brackets. Test the Speakers: Reconnect the battery and test the speakers to ensure they're working properly. Adjust the volume and sound settings to your liking. Reassemble the Trim: Reinstall the door panels or other trim pieces.
Enhancing Your Car Audio System
Upgrading your speakers is a great first step, but there are several other ways to enhance your car audio system for an even better listening experience.
Add an Amplifier: An amplifier provides more power to your speakers, allowing them to play louder and cleaner. Choose an amplifier that matches the RMS power rating of your speakers. Install a Subwoofer: A subwoofer adds deep, powerful bass to your system, creating a more immersive listening experience. Upgrade Your Head Unit: A new head unit can provide more features and better sound processing capabilities. Look for a head unit with built-in Bluetooth, USB connectivity, and support for high-resolution audio. Sound Deadening: Applying sound-deadening material to your car doors and other panels reduces vibrations and road noise, improving the clarity and detail of your music. Related: [Sound Deadening Techniques] Digital Sound Processor (DSP):A DSP allows you to fine-tune your audio system to your specific vehicle and listening preferences. It can optimize the frequency response, adjust the sound stage, and improve the overall sound quality.
FAQ Section
Q: What size are most factory car speakers?
A: Factory car speakers come in various sizes, but common sizes include 4x6, 5.25,
6.5, 6x9 and 6x8 inches. Always check your vehicle's manual or use an online fit guide to confirm the correct size for your car.
Q: What does RMS power mean for car speakers?
A: RMS (Root Mean Square) power is the continuous power that a speaker can handle safely over an extended period. It's a more accurate measure of a speaker's power handling capability than peak power.
Q: Can I install 6x8 speakers in a 5x7 opening?
A: 6x8 and 5x7 speakers are essentially the same size and are interchangeable in most applications.
Q: Do I need an amplifier for aftermarket speakers?
A: While not always necessary, an amplifier can significantly improve the performance of aftermarket speakers, especially if they have a high RMS power rating. An amplifier provides more power, allowing the speakers to play louder and cleaner.
Q: What is the difference between coaxial and component speakers?
A: Coaxial speakers combine the woofer and tweeter into a single unit, making them easier to install. Component speakers separate the woofer and tweeter, offering better sound quality and imaging but requiring more complex installation.
Q: How important is speaker sensitivity?
A: Sensitivity indicates how efficiently a speaker converts power into sound. Higher sensitivity means the speaker will play louder with less power, making it ideal for low-powered systems.
Conclusion
Upgrading your car speakers is a worthwhile investment that can transform your driving experience. By considering factors like vehicle compatibility, power handling, speaker type, and sound preferences, you can choose the perfect 6x8 inch car speakers for your needs. Whether you prioritize sound quality, power, or value, there's a speaker option on this list to suit your individual requirements. Remember to follow proper installation techniques or seek professional help to ensure optimal performance. Enjoy the journey of enhanced audio as you cruise down the road!