I have been an audiophile for years and love listening to high quality music, especially in my car. The factory installed speakers in most vehicles simply don't provide the sound clarity and depth I want. Upgrading to aftermarket speakers can make a huge difference, but also requires rewiring them properly to get the most out of the new components.
Through trial and error with my own vehicles, I've learned how to upgrade my car's sound system on a budget by rewiring the speakers myself. With some basic tools and supplies, you can rewire your car speakers to really unleash their potential for incredible sound.
Assessing Your Existing System
Before making any changes, it's important to understand what you're working with. Here are the key things I assess:
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Head Unit - This is the stereo receiver, usually built into the dashboard. Check if it has RCA preamp outputs which you'll need to connect new amplifiers.
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Speakers - Document quantity, locations, sizes and impedances. This determines what replacement speakers will fit and work best.
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Amplification - Note whether there is a factory amplifier. If not, you'll need to add one or more.
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Wiring - Are the existing speaker wires decent gauge? If not, they will need to be upgraded.
Choosing New Speakers
Once you know your requirements and budget, you can select appropriate new car speakers. I typically look for:
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Good value - More expensive doesn't always mean better sound. Listen to speakers in your price range and read reviews.
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Design - Check speaker sizes and impedances match to fit existing locations without modifications.
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Power handling - Choose speakers that match well with your car's factory stereo or new amp.
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Sensitivity - Higher sensitivity speakers will play louder with less power.
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Build quality - Look for sturdy materials like polypropylene cones and rubber surrounds.
Brands I've had success with include Infinity, Alpine and JBL for a great balance of affordability and performance.
Adding an Amplifier
The standard built-in car stereo rarely provides enough power to unleash the full potential of upgraded speakers. Adding an amplifier is key to making them sing.
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A 4 channel amp will provide clean, strong power to a full set of speakers. Match the RMS power to your speakers' requirements.
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Look for a reputable brand like Rockford Fosgate, Alpine or Kenwood. Read reviews and buy from authorized dealers.
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Adding a subwoofer? Make sure the amp can power both front/rear and a subwoofer channel.
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Location - Securely mount the amp somewhere like under a seat to avoid damage and interference.
Rewiring the Speakers
Here are the step-by-step basics I follow to rewire new car speakers:
Step 1 - Plan the Wiring Layout
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Decide where you'll mount the amplifier and run the wires under carpeting.
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Draw a diagram of the wiring plan so you don't get lost during installation.
Step 2 - Run New Speaker Wires
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Use 16 or 14 gauge wires for full range speakers. 12 gauge for subwoofers.
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Oxygen-free copper wiring ensures maximum signal transfer.
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Match positive/negative wires for each channel. Color coding helps avoid mistakes.
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Avoid sharp bends and protect wires from rubbing to prevent shorts.
Step 3 - Securely Connect Wires
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Attach positive and negative wires for each speaker using crimp connectors or solder.
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Insulate connections to prevent shorts which can destroy amps or speakers.
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Double check polarity - positive to positive and negative to negative.
Step 4 - Connect Amplifier Outputs
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Connect speaker wires to amplifier outputs matching channels and polarity.
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Turn gain knobs to minimum to avoid speaker damage when powering on the amp for the first time.
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Adjust gains carefully for optimal volume and sound quality after installation is complete.
Final Sound Quality Check
After rewiring your new car speakers and amplifier, here are some things I listen for to make sure they sound their absolute best:
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Crisp highs - Symbols and vocals should be detailed without sounding harsh.
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Balanced midrange - Vocals and instruments sound full, rich and defined.
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Tight bass - Deep lows enhance music without distorting or loose rumbling.
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Sound stage - Music seems spacious and surrounds you from all angles.
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Minimal distortion - Speakers play loud and clean without cracking or buzzing.
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Volume balance - Levels matched across speakers for seamless immersion.
Rewiring your car's audio system definitely takes planning and elbow grease. But hearing the final product deliver pristine, rocking sound makes it all worthwhile! Invest some time upfront and you can unlock incredible performance from new speakers without overspending.