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Component speakers
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How to shop for Component Speakers
Regular speakers, or "coaxial speakers," combine a woofer (larger cone) and a tweeter (a much smaller speaker) into one speaker. It's a convenient way to get great sound from a single speaker opening. Component systems use separate woofers and tweeters, so each component can do its job better. You'll have to install the tweeter separately, which is a little more work, but totally worth it. You can mount the tweeters higher up in the car (dash, upper door, etc.) where you'll be able to better hear all the musical details.
Crutchfield carries a wide variety of component speaker systems. With so many choices available, it can be hard to know which ones to buy. Below, we'll cover the highlights to get you started, but for more guidance on what to look for when shopping, read our car speakers buying guide.
Finding speakers that fit
You'll quickly notice that every step of the way, we'll ask you to tell us about your car. That's because the best way to shop for speakers is to start by knowing which ones will actually fit in your car. This will also help narrow your search so you can focus on what's relevant for your vehicle.
Power handling – how much power do my speakers need?
Power handling is an important detail when shopping for new speakers, especially component systems. Speakers with a lower RMS power range will be more suitable for powering with an aftermarket stereo, while a higher RMS range will work better with an external amplifier.
When using an external amplifier, you should pick an amp with a power rating in the upper end of your speaker's power range. For example, if a speaker is rated to handle up to 75 watts of RMS power, it will perform closer to optimum as your power source approaches delivery of 75 watts.
Tweeter design
What the tweeters are made of dramatically impacts how they sound. Read our article about tweeter design for more details.
Popular questions customers ask
Replacing your car speakers usually involves removing trim panels (doors, dash, etc.), unbolting the factory speakers, installing the new speakers, and then reinstalling your panels. With a component system, you'll also have to mount your tweeters, which will mean some extra work and possible modifications. We include instructions for taking apart your car, and our Tech Support staff is always here to help.
Read our article:
Component speakers installation options
Component systems will work fine when powered by an aftermarket stereo, but they'll really sound their best when powered by an external amplifier. More expensive component speakers usually need more power for maximum performance, while lower priced components can get by with less power.
It's simple - you replace your car speakers because you want your music to sound better. Car makers cut corners when it comes to car speakers, and aftermarket speakers use better materials and superior construction to deliver improved sound. Replacing your old speakers is an inexpensive way to get better sound in your car.
No! Speakers are sold in pairs, and it's common to replace your front speakers first, then later replace your rear speakers. It's a good idea to choose the same brand speakers for front and back, if possible. That way, the tone settings that sound good in the front seat will sound good in the back seat too. Of course, you can replace all your speakers at one time for the most dramatic improvement.
Most component speaker systems need, at minimum, the power of an aftermarket stereo. Like we said above, it depends on the RMS power rating of the speakers. Speakers with an upper range of 50 watts RMS or higher will definitely sound better powered by an external amplifier.
