Are Kenwood Speakers Any Good? An Expert Breakdown
Tired of that muddy, lifeless sound coming from your factory car stereo? You’re not alone. The single biggest improvement you can make to your car’s audio system is upgrading the speakers. The question is, with so many brands out there, does Kenwood make good speakers?
The short answer is a definitive yes. Based on my two decades of experience installing car audio systems, Kenwood speakers consistently offer one of the best balances of performance, quality, and price on the market. They represent a massive, audible upgrade over stock speakers without requiring a second mortgage. This guide will walk you through exactly why they’re a great choice and how to select and install the perfect set for your vehicle.
Expert Summary: Why Kenwood Speakers are a Smart Choice
- Excellent Value: Kenwood delivers clear, dynamic sound that rivals more expensive brands, making them a top choice for budget-conscious audio upgrades.
- Significant OEM Upgrade: They are engineered to be far more efficient and acoustically superior to the paper-cone speakers that come standard in most vehicles.
- Multiple Tiers: With options like the entry-level Performance Series and the more refined eXcelon Series, there’s a Kenwood speaker for nearly every budget and audio goal.
- Easy Installation: Kenwood designs their speakers to fit standard vehicle openings, and with the right adapters, installation is a straightforward DIY project.
- Trusted Brand: With a long history in audio, Kenwood has a proven track record of reliability and consistent quality control.
How to Choose the Right Kenwood Speakers for Your Car
Choosing the right speakers can feel overwhelming, but it boils down to a few key decisions. I’ve installed countless sets of Kenwood car speakers, and following this process ensures you get the perfect fit and sound for your needs.
Step 1: Determine Your Speaker Size and Type
Before you buy anything, you must know what fits your car. Using the wrong size is the #1 mistake I see DIY installers make.
- Find Your Size: The easiest method is to use an online tool like Crutchfield’s Outfit My Car. Simply enter your vehicle’s make, model, and year, and it will show you the exact speaker sizes for your front doors, rear doors, and rear deck.
- Common Sizes: Most vehicles use a combination of common sizes like 6.5-inch, 5.25-inch, or 6×8-inch speakers in the doors. Many sedans use are Kenwood 6×9 speakers good for the rear deck, as their larger cone area produces stronger bass.
- Component vs. Coaxial:
Step 2: Compare Kenwood Speaker Series
Kenwood primarily offers two main lines for car speakers. Deciding between them depends on your budget and how serious you are about sound quality. So, how good are Kenwood speakers in each series?
| Feature | Kenwood Performance Series | Kenwood eXcelon Series |
|---|---|---|
| Target User | The everyday driver seeking a major, cost-effective upgrade from factory sound. | The audio enthusiast who wants higher fidelity, detail, and power handling. |
| Key Features | Polypropylene cones, high-sensitivity design, balanced dome tweeters. | Oversized cones, silk dome tweeters, higher-grade crossover components. |
| Sound Profile | Clear, punchy, and dynamic. A great all-around performer. | More refined, detailed, and smooth, with better bass response and clarity. |
| Price Point | $ – $$ | $$ – $$$ |
| My Takeaway | For 90% of people, the Performance Series is the perfect sweet spot. It’s the series I recommend most for a first-time upgrade. | If you plan on adding an external amplifier, the eXcelon series is worth the extra investment to get the most out of your system. |
Step 3: Understand Key Specifications
Don’t get lost in the numbers, but these three specs are worth a quick look.
- Power Handling (RMS): This is the continuous power a speaker can handle. If you’re using a factory or aftermarket stereo (typically 15-22 watts RMS), look for speakers with a lower RMS rating. If you’re using an amplifier, match the speaker’s RMS rating to the amp’s output.
- Sensitivity: Measured in decibels (dB), this tells you how efficiently a speaker converts power into sound. If you’re not using an amp, a higher sensitivity rating (90 dB or above) is crucial. Kenwood car speakers are good speakers in this regard, as most are designed with high sensitivity.
- Frequency Response: This indicates the range of sounds the speaker can reproduce (e.g., 40-22,000 Hz). A wider range generally means more detailed sound, especially with better low-end bass reproduction.
How to Install Your New Kenwood Car Speakers: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to get your hands dirty? Installing Kenwood speakers is one of the most rewarding DIY car projects. With a little patience and the right tools, you can dramatically improve your sound in an afternoon.
Tools & Materials Needed
| Category | Item | Why You Need It |
|---|---|---|
| Tools | Panel Removal Tool Kit | Safely removes plastic door panels without scratching or breaking clips. |
| Screwdriver Set (Phillips & Flathead) | For removing speaker and panel screws. A ratcheting screwdriver is a plus. | |
| Socket/Wrench Set | For disconnecting the battery terminal. | |
| Wire Stripper/Cutter | For preparing wires if not using an adapter. | |
| Materials | Kenwood Speakers | The star of the show! |
| Speaker Wiring Harness Adapter | CRITICAL. This makes the connection plug-and-play, no cutting factory wires. | |
| Speaker Mounting Brackets | Often needed to adapt the new speaker to the factory mounting holes. | |
| Sound Deadening Material (Optional) | Reduces vibration and road noise, improving mid-bass response. |
Step 1: Disconnect the Battery
Safety First! Before you do anything else, use a wrench to disconnect the negative terminal of your car battery. This prevents any short circuits that could damage your car’s electrical system or your new equipment.
Step 2: Remove the Door Panel or Speaker Grille
This is often the most intimidating step, but it’s manageable.
- Look for Screws: Check for screws in the door handle, armrest, and along the edges of the panel. They are often hidden under small plastic covers you can pop off with a flathead screwdriver.
- Use the Panel Tool: Once all screws are out, slide a plastic panel removal tool between the door and the panel. Gently pry to release the plastic clips holding it in place. You’ll hear them pop—this is normal.
- Disconnect Electronics: Once the panel is loose, don’t yank it off. Carefully disconnect any wiring harnesses for power windows, locks, and mirrors.
Step 3: Unscrew and Remove the Old Factory Speaker
The factory speaker is typically held in by three or four screws. Simply unscrew them, and the speaker
