Breaking Down Your Car Stereo System into Basic Groups
“What’s with the different car speaker sizes?”
This is a question that we get several times a year from multiple people. If you’ve found yourself asking this same query about your car stereo system – not to worry – you’re not alone. Understanding car speaker sizes is critical info when it comes to car audio installation because we need to know that your car speakers are actually going to fit in your ride. Sometimes the car you’re driving and the set of car speakers you have your eye on aren’t a match. However, nowadays there are so many different varieties of car speakers that sizing issues are rarely a problem, even with older model vehicles.
To help break this down, we’re going to take you through the different varieties of car speaker sizes. The next time that you are shopping for a new pair of car speakers you can use this as your guide.
First Things First…Speaker Sizes Aren’t Always Exact
Understanding car speaker sizes can be a little bit confusing because what you see isn’t always what you get. For instance, speakers that are advertised as 3.5 aren’t necessarily going to be 3 ½ inches in diameter. Additionally, car speakers that are advertised as for 4x6 aren’t always going to be 4 inches wide by 6 inches in height.
So, what does this mean for your car speaker sizing? It means that the size advertised is an indicator but you should still measure the space that you intend to install the speaker to get confirmation. This includes the height, width, and depth of the speaker. As the saying goes: “measure twice, cut once.”
Car Stereo System Speaker Categories by Size
When considering car speakers, it helps to think of them as categories rather than exact sizes. The following is a breakdown of the most commonly used categories in car audio installation.
4x6 Car Speakers: Running on the small side, these speakers are distinguishable by their oval-shaped speaker with rectangular frame. If you’re looking for a speaker that hits hard but won’t break your wallet, the 4x6 car speaker is one of the most cost-effective you can get.
5.25 Car Speakers: Although you will usually find the 5.25 speaker installed in the back doors or behind your seats, the small size of these car speakers allows them to be installed practically anywhere in the car. However, these speakers are more of a supporting act rather than the main attraction of your car stereo system.
5x7 Car Speakers: 5x7 speakers are slightly larger and more powerful than the previously mentioned 5.25 speakers. It’s worth mentioning that 5x7 car speakers are one of the least common car speaker sizes. Additionally, they can fit in 6 x 8 speaker housings, once again proving that sizing info can be slightly misleading.
6x8 Car Speakers: Traditionally installed in the front doors of the vehicle, 6x8 car speakers are one of the most popular sizes of speaker. For those of you who are wondering which speakers to upgrade first, going with 6x8 speakers is usually a pretty safe option. Don’t be afraid to invest heavily in these.
6.5 Car Speakers: 6.5 car speakers are another highly popular speaker category. Aftermarket 3-way speakers provide crisp playback, powerful bass, and great handling on the full spectrum of sound.
6x9 Car Speakers: 6 x 9 speakers are perhaps the most popular speaker category among audio enthusiasts, and are most commonly referred to as a coaxial speaker or all-in-one speaker. This is because they contain a woofer, tweeter, and a crossover. Typically, drivers will have these installed in their doors or in the rear deck. Doors can be a little bit trickier with the sizing, so make sure that you measure them before performing an installation.
Upgrade Your Car Audio Today at San Diego Car Stereo
Now that you know the basics of car speaker sizes, the next step is to upgrade your vehicle’s sound system with a new pair of aftermarket speakers. Trying out your new car speakers before you buy them is the best way to shop for aftermarket speakers, which is exactly what we do here at San Diego Car Stereo. We carry some of the largest stock and widest selection of aftermarket car speakers in the San Diego area. Additionally, if you’ve been looking for car stereo installation near you, we have a wide selection of Bluetooth car stereos.
You can visit our shop directly at 4220 Convoy St. located right here in sunny San Diego. If you’d like to make an appointment, call us at (858) 569-0777 or message us using the contact form on our website.