If you want to take your boat rides to the next level by upgrading your marine audio system, then you’re in the right place. Having high-quality marine speakers is essential for getting the best experience during your marine rides. Naturally, there are many things you will need to consider when deciding on which speakers to buy. For more detailed advice you can read our guide on how to choose marine audio systems.
In this article, we’ll go over the main factors that you should keep in mind when buying your boat speakers. First, we’ll explore together the main defining features of marine speakers and then we’ll provide you with a list of the 9 best marine speakers to buy in 2024.
What to Consider When Looking for Marine Speakers
If you’re looking for marine speakers, the following factors are essential to pay attention to in order to make informed decisions:
Key Features of Marine Speakers
Now, there are a number of factors to think about when choosing marine speakers.
These factors include sound quality, durability and longevity, size and installation options, power handling, UV resistance, waterproof design, professional advice, and more. These aspects play a vital role in ensuring a great quality audio experience.
Let’s dive deeper into some of these factors and understand the main points you need to consider when looking for the best marine speakers.
Factor 1: Sound Quality
Naturally, the end goal of any audio system setup or upgrade is to achieve great sound quality. So, this aspect is the first thing you should consider when choosing your boat speakers. For the sound quality to be exceptional, you need to get speakers specifically designed for marine settings.
Most of the time, the speakers are going to work in open-air settings where the noise of the wind, the waves, and the engine are audible. So, look for marine speakers that provide clear sound for a wide range of frequencies and have enough power to allow the music to come through.
Factor 2: Durability & Longevity
When you’re making an investment, you want it to last and be worth the trouble. This is why you must think of the durability and the longevity of the sound system you’re upgrading.
To achieve this, you need to make sure that you get quality speakers designed to withstand damage from UV rays, corrosion, and salt. One practical way to ensure your marine speakers have long-lasting performance, is to look for speakers made of durable materials like rubber surrounds and UV-resistant plastic housings.
Factor 3: Size & Installation
Another key point to think about is the size of the speakers you’re getting and the installation they require. It would be wise to measure the space where you’re going to install the speakers and make sure they will fit without taking up too much space or getting in your way.
The boat size and the size of the speakers should speak to each other to achieve the best possible outcome. Also, think about the installation type and the possible difficulties that may arise from the process.
Factor 4: Power Handling
Now, one of the most important factors you should consider is the power handling of the speakers. Measured in watts, the power handling indicates the maximum power a speaker can handle without getting damaged.
So, when choosing the speakers, make sure they are compatible with your boat’s stereo system and can handle its peak output. Ensuring this compatibility will reward you with high-quality, undistorted sound.
Factor 5: Waterproofness
It should be no surprise that one of the most essential things to consider when upgrading the speakers is making sure they are waterproof. It is inevitable for marine speakers to not get wet at one point or the other. This is why speakers that are not waterproof will have a very short life and will not be worth the time and money spent on them.
Factor 6: Consult with Marine Audio Experts
As you can see, there are many things that you need to consider when making a purchase. You may buy the best speakers, but if they are not compatible with your system, or if they are not the right choice for your specific needs, then your experience will diminish significantly.
This is why it’s always best to consult with a professional when making this kind of change. For more detailed tips and tricks to transform your marine audio system, you can check out our guide on transforming your marine audio system. Leaving all these considerations to an experienced specialist who has done many installations will ensure that your investment pays back fully.
So, if you need any professional assistance when shopping for speakers,contact our team at Santa Clarita Auto Sound. We’reready to assist you and help you find the best marine speakers for your boat. Plus, we have a nationwide delivery. And if you’re in Santa Clarita, take advantage of our professional marine audio installation services.
Additional Factors to Consider
Before we move to the next section, keep in mind that there are other aspects to consider, such as the size of the boat and its type, the compatibility of the system components, the speaker placement, wiring, cleaning, and maintenance. All of these come into play in audio systems, and their combined result ensures a superb sound experience for you.
Top 9 Marine Speakers to Choose in 2024
To make your search easier, we have identified the top 9 marine speakers that you can choose from. Below, we’ll go over each one of them so that you can find the best fit for you.
1. Kenwood KFC-2053MRB – 2-way 2 Speaker
Kenwood KFC-2053MRBs are high-quality speakers designed specifically for marine use. With 300W peak power and 55Hz – 20kHz frequency response, these speakers will ensure a wide range of sound output and can handle loud music with no problem.
Pros
- High level of power handling
- Takes up no space
Cons
- On the higher end of the price range
- Requires screwing in for mounting
2. Kenwood KFC-2053MRW – 2-way 2 Speaker
Similar to the previous model, Kenwood KFC-2053MRWs are excellent marine speakers with a power handling of 300W (peak), 100W (rated power), and 55Hz-20,000Hz frequency response range.
Pros
- High level of power handling
- Takes up no space
Cons
- No UV resistance
- Requires screwing in for mounting
3. Kenwood KFC-1673MRBL – 6-1/2″ 2-way 2 Speaker with Illumination
Kenwood KFC-1673MRBLs are great marine speakers that combine good sound with fun visuals. Their peak power reaches up to 260W, while the rated power is 75W. The frequency response range is 65Hz -21KHz. Beyond the sounds, these speakers can provide 21 illumination colors and 21 lightning mode patterns, making your experience even better.
Pros
- UV resistance
- Remote control
Cons
- Not as powerful
- Requires screwing in for mounting
4. Kenwood KFC-1673MRWL – 6-1/2″ 2-way 2 Speaker with Illumination
Like the previous option, Kenwood KFC-1673MRWL marine speakers offer excellent sound quality combined with exciting visuals. They have a peak power of up to 260W and a rated power of 75W, with a frequency response range of 65Hz to 21KHz. In addition to great audio, these speakers feature 21 illumination colors and 21 lighting mode patterns, 8 brightness and speed adjustments.
Pros
- UV resistance
- Remote control
Cons
- Not as powerful
- Requires screwing in for mounting
5. Kenwood KFC-1633MRW – 6.5” 2-Way Marine Speaker System
Kenwood KFC-1633MRWs are an affordable yet high-quality option for those on a budget. With a peak power of 100W and a frequency range of 65-20,000 Hz, these speakers can be a nice addition to your marine sound system and create a quite pleasant environment on the boat.
Pros
- Takes up no space
- Budget price
Cons
- Not as powerful
- Not as wide frequency range as the previous ones
6. Kenwood KFC-1653MRB – 2-way 2 Speaker
Kenwood KFC-1653MRBs are another great option for marine speakers. They have a peak power of 150W, a rated power of 50W, and a frequency response range of 60Hz – 20kHz. These speakers are a convenient fit for those who don’t want to spend too much money yet want to get a good overall experience.
Pros
- Takes up no space
- Budget price
Cons
- Not as powerful
- Not too wide frequency range on the higher end
7. Kenwood KFC-1653MRW – 2-way 2 Speaker
Kenwood KFC-1653MRWs marine speakers are another excellent choice. With a peak power of 150W, a rated power of 50W, and a frequency response range of 60Hz to 20kHz, these speakers provide a great overall experience. They are an affordable option for those looking for quality sound without spending too much.
Pros
- Takes up no space
- Budget price
Cons
- Not as powerful
- Not too wide frequency range on the higher end
8. Kicker 45KM654L – KM 6.5″ 4Ω LED Coaxial Marine Speakers
Built to perform in marine environments, Kicker 45KM654L- KM speakers are another exceptional choice to consider. With 195W peak power and 65W rated power, as well as an exceptionally wide range of frequency response – 35Hz-21kHz, they can leave any user impressed.
KM speakers can withstand nearly any weather condition thanks to splash-and-spray-resistant sealed motors, cones, and Locking/Sealed Terminal Covers. Plus, the hardware is made from rustproof 316L stainless steel for extra durability.
Pros
- Highly durable
- Wide frequency range
- LED lighting
Cons
- On the higher end of the price range
9. Kicker 45KM84L 8″ 4Ω LED Coaxial Marine Speakers
Similar to the previous option, Kicker 45KM84Ls are powerful speakers capable of super levels of sound output with peak 300W power. Having a frequency response range of 30Hz-21kHz, these speakers accommodate a wide range of sound frequencies.
They are also exceptional when it comes to durability and longevity, including splash-and-spray-resistant sealed motors, cones, and Locking/Sealed Terminal Covers.
Pros
- Highly durable
- Wide frequency range
- LED lighting
- High level of power handling
Cons
- On the higher end of the price range
Bonus Pick: Kenwood KAC-M8005 – Class D 5-Channel Marine Power Amplifier
Since you’re looking for marine speakers, you might also want to look into high-quality marine amplifiers that can handle powerful speakers. Kenwood KAC-M8005 – Class D 5-Channel marine amplifiers are our top pick for you. Its peak power is 1600W, which can be used with speakers at various power levels.
If you’re considering getting this amplifier, make sure you have a place that is protected from the sun, humidity, and water exposure.
Where to Buy the Best Marine Speakers
If you’re wondering where to get the high-quality marine speakers mentioned above or any other sound system-related products, you should visit our shop. There, you will find some of the best speakers and audio products from the most reliable brands. Santa Clarita Auto Sound’s shop also has a nationwide delivery, making your purchase experience even more seamless.
Additionally, if you live in Santa Clarita, you don’t have to worry about installation. Our experienced professionals will take care of it and install your marine speakers in an efficient and smooth manner.
FAQs About Marine Speakers
Now that we have got everything covered let’s go over some of the most commonly asked questions on the topic:
What makes marine speakers different?
Marine speakers are constructed with sturdy materials to ensure durability in harsh marine environments. They are built with special plastic to withstand tough elements and stainless steel components to handle sudden temperature changes.
What makes a good marine speaker?
Marine speakers are considered excellent if they possess high durability, strong power handling, and can deliver great quality sound in an open-air setting despite background noise.
Do marine speakers sound as good as regular speakers?
Marine speakers can sound as good as regular speakers. They are designed to sound great in a setting where external noise, such as wind, waves, and any other outside sound, cannot be avoided.
How many speakers do I need for my boat?
The number of speakers that you need for your boat depends on the size of the boat. Usually, smaller boats are fine with 2 to 4 speakers, while larger boats may require more. It is very boat-specific and also depends on additional factors, such as the type of sound system you have on the boat.
How waterproof are marine speakers? Can boat speakers get wet?
Marine speakers are specifically designed with the risk of water in mind. This means they are built to withstand water as well as other elements such as salt and UV exposure. Thus, they can handle getting a bit of splash of water on them.
Are marine speakers better than car speakers?
Marine speakers are better than car speakers in terms of their durability, sturdiness, and their ability to withstand different weather conditions.
Can I use marine speakers in my car?
You can use marine speakers in your car. However, keep in mind that marine speakers are designed for open-air settings, so there might be some need for adjustments in terms of tuning to match them to the acoustics of the car.
Conclusion
As you can see, there are a lot of considerations that go into choosing the best marine speakers for your boat. Factors like sound quality, durability, power handling, and waterproof features are essential aspects that you need to think about before making a purchase. Making informed decisions and doing your own research is always a good idea and will help you find the best option to make your boat rides unforgettable.
