Boat speakers are an essential component of any marine audio system, providing high-quality sound and entertainment while out on the water. When it comes to purchasing boat speakers, there are several critical factors to consider, such as durability, sound quality, and weather resistance.
Boat speakers come in various sizes and shapes, including coaxial and component speakers. Coaxial speakers are the most common type of boat speakers and consist of a woofer and a tweeter in one speaker. Component speakers, on the other hand, have separate woofers, tweeters, and crossovers, providing a more precise and customizable sound.
When selecting the best boat speakers, it’s essential to consider the size of your vessel and the size of the speakers you’re interested in. Additionally, you’ll want to pay attention to the power handling and sensitivity of the speakers to ensure they can handle the power output of your marine audio system.
Ultimately, the best boat speakers will provide clear, high-quality sound while being durable enough to withstand the harsh marine environment. In this article, we’ve tested and reviewed several top-rated boat speakers to help you find the perfect set for your next boating adventure.
Best Boat Speakers
If you’re looking to upgrade your boat’s sound system, investing in a quality set of boat speakers is a must. Not only do they enhance your overall boating experience, but they also allow you to enjoy your favorite tunes while on the water. In this roundup, we’ve compiled a list of the best boat speakers on the market. Our top picks are based on factors such as sound quality, durability, and overall value. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly option or a high-end speaker system, we’ve got you covered.
Pyle Waterproof Marine Wakeboard Tower Speakers
If you’re looking for affordable boat speakers with LED lights and Bluetooth connectivity, the Pyle Waterproof Marine Wakeboard Tower Speakers are worth considering.
Pros
- Waterproof marine-grade construction
- Bluetooth wireless music streaming
- Built-in LED illuminating lights
Cons
- Some users reported issues with the LED lights
- The sound quality could be better
- The manual lacks clear instructions
These speakers are designed to be mounted on a boat’s wakeboard tower or roll bar, and they come with integrated universal roll bar mounting clamps. They are also waterproof and weather-resistant, making them ideal for outdoor use. The built-in LED illuminating lights add a fun touch to your boating experience.
With Bluetooth connectivity, you can easily stream music wirelessly from your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. The speakers have a wireless range of 30 feet or more, and they work with all of today’s latest devices. The 2-way full range audio speaker system features titanium dome tweeters and long excursion subwoofers for clear and powerful sound.
While some users reported issues with the LED lights not working properly, most users were satisfied with their purchase. The sound quality could be better, but for the price, these speakers offer a good value. The manual lacks clear instructions, but installation is relatively straightforward.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable set of boat speakers with LED lights and Bluetooth connectivity, the Pyle Waterproof Marine Wakeboard Tower Speakers are a solid choice.
KICKER 45KM654 Marine Boat Speakers
If you’re looking for a high-quality marine speaker, the KICKER 45KM654 is a great choice. It delivers excellent sound quality and is built to withstand the harsh marine environment.
Pros
- The polypropylene woofer with rubber surround delivers clear and powerful sound.
- The sealed motor structure and locking terminal covers protect the speaker from water damage.
- The black and white grilles provide a sleek and stylish look that complements any boat.
Cons
- The speaker covers may not fit all 6.5-inch speakers despite being advertised as such.
- The speakers may require some EQ adjustments to get the best sound quality.
- They may not be the best option for lower fairing on a Harley.
The KICKER 45KM654 Marine Boat Speakers are a great investment for any boat owner looking for high-quality sound. With its durable construction and sleek design, it’s a speaker that will last for years to come.
The polypropylene woofer with rubber surround delivers clear and powerful sound, making it perfect for listening to music, podcasts, and more while out on the water. Additionally, the sealed motor structure and locking terminal covers protect the speaker from water damage, ensuring that it can withstand the harsh marine environment.
The black and white grilles provide a sleek and stylish look that complements any boat, adding to the overall aesthetic appeal of your vessel. However, some users have reported that the speaker covers may not fit all 6.5-inch speakers despite being advertised as such.
While the speakers may require some EQ adjustments to get the best sound quality, they are still an excellent investment for any boat owner looking for high-quality sound. However, they may not be the best option for lower fairing on a Harley.
Pyle Waterproof Off-Road Speakers with Amplifier
If you’re looking for a powerful and durable speaker system for your boat, ATV, UTV, quad, Jeep, or any other outdoor vehicle, the Pyle Waterproof Off-Road Speakers with Amplifier is a great choice.
Pros
- The 1500W high powered output delivers impressive bass response and a full range stereo sound reproduction.
- The 4-CH marine audio amplifier includes wired RCA/AUX audio input, pre-amp RCA out to any OEM/factory made universal mono block or full range amplifier, overload & power protection circuitry & anti-thump/soft turn-on/off.
- The weather-resistant speakers are protectively stored in a heavy-duty molded cabinet with butyl rubber surround and can be mounted on a support bar, frame, roll-bar/cage.
Cons
- Some users have reported poor sound quality and distortion at high volumes.
- The mounting system may require some modifications for a secure fit.
- There have been reports of speakers blowing out after only a few weeks of use.
Overall, the Pyle Waterproof Off-Road Speakers with Amplifier is a solid choice for those looking for a powerful and durable speaker system for their outdoor vehicles. Just be sure to keep the volume at a reasonable level to avoid distortion and potential damage to the speakers.
KICKER KM Coaxial Marine Speakers
If you want to enjoy your favorite music on the water, KICKER KM Coaxial Marine Speakers are a great option due to their durability and sound quality.
Pros
- The speakers are designed to be 100% marine-grade, with UV treatments on injection-molded cones, Santoprene surrounds, baskets, and grilles to maintain top-shelf performance.
- The speakers meet or exceed ASTM standards for humidity and corrosion, as well as for material degradation due to UV exposure.
- You can choose from seven colors to make your boat shine, or add the KMLC LED controller (sold separately) to unlock 20 colors and 19 wild lighting modes.
Cons
- The high range of these speakers is mostly drowned out by solid mid, so the range from mid to high is not as good as expected.
- The LED lights are not very bright and may not be visible in daylight.
- The speakers are a bit expensive compared to other marine speakers on the market.
KICKER KM Coaxial Marine Speakers are built to last and provide great sound quality on the water. The speakers are designed to be marine-grade, so they can withstand almost any weather conditions. They also meet or exceed ASTM standards for humidity and corrosion, as well as for material degradation due to UV exposure. You can choose from seven colors to make your boat shine, and the speakers come with white and charcoal grilles. However, the high range of these speakers is mostly drowned out by solid mid, so the range from mid to high is not as good as expected. The LED lights are not very bright and may not be visible in daylight. Overall, if you’re looking for a durable and high-quality marine speaker, KICKER KM Coaxial Marine Speakers are a good choice.
Kenwood KFC-1653MRW 6.5″ 2-Way Marine Speakers Pair
These Kenwood speakers are a decent choice for boat owners looking for a budget-friendly option that still delivers decent sound quality.
Pros
- Water-resistant design
- Easy installation
- Good value for the price
Cons
- Not the most powerful speakers on the market
- May not be durable in harsh weather conditions
- Sound quality could be better
These speakers have a frequency response of 60Hz – 20,000Hz and an impedance of 4 ohms. They feature a water-resistant PP cone woofer and a 1″ balanced dome tweeter. The mounting depth is 2-7/16″.
The Kenwood KFC-1653MRW speakers are a good choice for those on a budget who want a decent set of marine speakers. They are easy to install and offer a water-resistant design that can withstand some exposure to the elements.
However, these speakers may not be the most durable option for harsh weather conditions, and the sound quality could be better. Additionally, they are not the most powerful speakers on the market, so those looking for a more robust sound may want to look elsewhere.
Overall, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that can deliver decent sound quality, the Kenwood KFC-1653MRW speakers are worth considering.
Pyle PLUTV55BTR
If you’re looking for an affordable and powerful waterproof speaker system for your off-road vehicle, the Pyle PLUTV55BTR is a great option.
Pros
- The 1000W dual marine grade off-road speaker system provides high-quality audio for your boat, ATV, UTV, quad, Jeep, or other vehicles.
- The speakers are Bluetooth-compatible for wireless audio streaming and work with devices like iPhone, Android mobile phone, or iPad.
- The marine grade IP-X5 waterproof construction with weatherproof and water-resistant housing makes it perfect for extreme water sports use.
Cons
- The speakers may distort at half volume over 1/8” stereo in.
- The speakers do not have much bass.
- The remote control has a delay and does not have a volume control.
The Pyle PLUTV55BTR is a powerful and affordable speaker system that is perfect for off-road adventures. With its 1000W dual marine grade off-road speaker system, you can enjoy high-quality audio on your boat, ATV, UTV, quad, Jeep, or other vehicles. The speakers are Bluetooth-compatible for wireless audio streaming and work with devices like iPhone, Android mobile phone, or iPad. The marine grade IP-X5 waterproof construction with weatherproof and water-resistant housing makes it perfect for extreme water sports use.
The only downsides to this speaker system are that it may distort at half volume over 1/8” stereo in, and it does not have much bass. Additionally, the remote control has a delay and does not have a volume control. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Pyle PLUTV55BTR is a great option for anyone looking for an affordable and powerful waterproof speaker system for their off-road vehicle.
Herdio 4 Inches Heavy Duty Waterproof Boat Marine Box Outdoor Speakers
If you’re looking for compact and powerful marine speakers that can withstand harsh outdoor conditions, then the Herdio 4 Inches Heavy Duty Waterproof Boat Marine Box Outdoor Speakers could be a great option for you.
Pros
- These speakers are compact and powerful with a maximum handling of 100 watts.
- They have a marine-grade waterproof construction with an IP66 rating, making them perfect for use in boats, UTVs, ATVs, trucks, golf carts, powersports, motorcycles, motorbikes, RVs, automobiles, and off-road vehicles.
- The small 4-inch size of these speakers makes them easy to install in areas with limited space.
Cons
- Some customers have reported that the mounting brackets rusted badly after six months of use.
- These speakers lack bass, which may not be suitable for those who prefer a more bass-heavy sound.
- One customer reported that one of the speakers sounded blown, while the other worked fine.
Overall, the Herdio 4 Inches Heavy Duty Waterproof Boat Marine Box Outdoor Speakers are a great choice for those who want compact, powerful, and waterproof speakers for their outdoor activities. Just be aware of the potential rusting issue with the mounting brackets and the lack of bass in the sound.
Pyle 200 Watt Marine Speaker System
If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable set of boat speakers, the Pyle 200 Watt Marine Speaker System is a great option.
Pros
- These speakers provide up to 200 watts peak power with 100 watt RMS, making them a great choice for boat owners who want to enjoy high-quality sound while out on the water.
- Thanks to their 4 ohm impedance rating, these speakers are able to compensate for the undersized wire found in many of today’s marine vehicles, which ultimately reduces distortion and ensures a crisp, clear sound.
- The full range stereo sound reproduction of these speakers is made possible by their 2-way dual cone design, which features a 1-inch aluminum voice coil and 0.5″ neodymium dome tweeter. The poly carbon cone with butyl rubber surround provides a strong foundation for the sound.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the wires attached to the crossover are pretty thin gauge, which could be a concern for those who want to ensure a secure and long-lasting installation.
- A few users have reported that one of the speakers in their set stopped working after a short period of time, which is a concern that should be taken seriously by anyone considering purchasing these speakers.
- While the molded ABS machined basket and detachable grill of these speakers are designed to be weather-resistant, some users have reported that they are not as durable as they would like.
The Pyle 200 Watt Marine Speaker System is a great choice for boat owners who want to enjoy high-quality sound while out on the water. With a peak power of 200 watts and an RMS of 100 watts, these speakers are able to deliver clear, crisp sound that will enhance any boating experience. Additionally, their 4 ohm impedance rating ensures that they are able to compensate for the undersized wire found in many marine vehicles, which reduces distortion and ensures that the sound is as clear and accurate as possible.
However, it’s worth noting that some users have reported issues with the wires attached to the crossover, which could be a concern for those who want to ensure a secure and long-lasting installation. Additionally, some users have reported that one of the speakers in their set stopped working after a short period of time, which is a concern that should be taken seriously by anyone considering purchasing these speakers. Finally, while the molded ABS machined basket and detachable grill of these speakers are designed to be weather-resistant, some users have reported that they are not as durable as they would like.
DS18 MP4TP.4A Marine & Powersports Stereo System
If you’re looking for a marine audio system with great sound quality, DS18 MP4TP.4A Marine & Powersports Stereo System is a good choice.
Pros
- The system includes four 4-inch tower pods and a 4-channel marine amplifier that can power all the products included in the package.
- The tower speakers can be mounted on any round roll bar with a size of 1.5″-2″, and the mounting pads are included.
- The smart Bluetooth remote allows you to control your phone’s function, and the BTRC-R can control your Bluetooth device, allowing you to store your media player while riding the trails without distractions.
Cons
- The installation process is more complicated than expected due to the additional wiring required.
- The speakers are not as loud as advertised, and the amplifier is not of the best quality.
- Some customers reported issues with water getting into the speaker casing and causing damage.
DS18 MP4TP.4A Marine & Powersports Stereo System is a versatile product that is perfect for boats, motorsports, golf carts, ATVs, and UTVs. The system is waterproof and can resist all the elements, water, dust, and vibrations that the world of motorsports brings. The tower speakers are easy to install and can be mounted on any round roll bar with a size of 1.5″-2″. The smart Bluetooth remote allows you to control your phone’s function, and the BTRC-R can control your Bluetooth device, allowing you to store your media player while riding the trails without distractions.
However, some customers reported that the installation process was more complicated than expected due to the additional wiring required. Additionally, the speakers are not as loud as advertised, and the amplifier is not of the best quality. Some customers also reported issues with water getting into the speaker casing and causing damage. Overall, DS18 MP4TP.4A Marine & Powersports Stereo System is a good choice if you’re looking for a marine audio system with great sound quality, but you should be aware of the potential issues.
Lanzar AQ6CXW
If you’re looking for high-quality waterproof speakers for your boat, the Lanzar AQ6CXW is a great choice.
Pros
- With a maximum power output of 400-watt peak power / 200 watt RMS, you can play your favorite tracks as loud as you want and with style.
- The 65Hz-20K Hz frequency response and 4-ohm impedance rating compensate for the undersized wire found in many of today’s vehicles, ultimately reducing distortion so you can enjoy a crisp and clear sound.
- Made of polypropylene cone w/ resin treatment surround, the speaker is built to withstand water splashes and other outdoor conditions.
Cons
- Only available in white color.
- Some users have reported that the sound quality could be improved.
- The installation process may require some technical knowledge.
The Lanzar AQ6CXW is designed for use in your boat, on the dock, by the pool, or simply mounted outside. With its water-resistant construction, the speaker is built to keep the rust out, ensuring you get the most out of your investment. The flush-mounted design for pre-cut openings allows the AQ6CXW speakers to look clean and compact when installed. The perforated and stylish grille adds another layer of protection against the elements. Along with the smooth and effortless design, you’ll get greater clarity and consistency than you might expect from conventional marine stereo speakers.
The two 6.5″ dual-cone, full-range speakers pump out 400 watts of music power. Each speaker contains a 1″ high-temperature voice coil, high-quality polypropylene cone to accurately reproduce low, mid-range, and high frequency sounds, along with 0.5″ superior dome tweeter. The molded ABS plastic basket keeps your sound distortion-free. With all of these features, you’ll be able to enjoy worry-free music quality just like at home.
The easy to install AQ6CXW speaker-combo package includes installation hardware, mounting gasket, and custom grills that will have you enjoying your outdoor music experience in no time. If you’re looking for a reliable, high-quality waterproof speaker for your boat, the Lanzar AQ6CXW is definitely worth considering.
Buying Guide
When shopping for boat speakers, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure you get the best product for your needs. Here are some features to look for:
Size and Type
The size and type of speakers you need will depend on the size of your boat and your personal preferences. Larger boats may require larger speakers to produce enough sound, while smaller boats may only need smaller speakers. Additionally, consider whether you want coaxial or component speakers. Coaxial speakers are easier to install and provide good sound quality, while component speakers offer better sound clarity and can be more customized.
Power Handling
Power handling refers to the amount of power a speaker can handle without being damaged. Look for speakers with a high RMS power rating, as this will indicate how much power the speaker can handle on a continuous basis. Additionally, consider the speaker’s peak power handling, which indicates how much power the speaker can handle in short bursts.
Sensitivity
Sensitivity refers to how efficiently a speaker can convert power into sound. Look for speakers with a high sensitivity rating, as this will indicate how loud the speaker can get with a given amount of power. A higher sensitivity rating can also help reduce distortion at high volumes.
Frequency Response
Frequency response refers to the range of frequencies a speaker can produce. Look for speakers with a wide frequency response range, as this will allow for better sound quality and detail. Additionally, consider the speaker’s crossover frequency, which separates the frequencies sent to the woofer and tweeter. A properly set crossover frequency can improve sound quality and reduce distortion.
Marine Certification
Finally, consider whether the speakers are marine certified. Marine certified speakers are designed to withstand harsh marine environments, including exposure to saltwater, UV rays, and extreme temperatures. Look for speakers with a marine certification to ensure they will last and provide good sound quality for years to come.
Aaron Smith is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
