Kevin JohnsonIt’s no secret that music can improve your driving experience. Choosing the best car speakers, amps, and stereos can transform how you listen to music, radio shows, and podcasts. They set the perfect mood and enhance the in-vehicle experience. Innovative car audio brands provide high-quality sound systems for different auto models. You can buy coaxial (full-range) all-in-one units to minimize costs and simplify installation. Component speakers are perfect for music lovers seeking to customize their sound systems with woofers, tweeters, and external crossovers. But which are the best car audio brands?
Here is a comprehensive analysis of the 15 best car audio brands:
1. Pioneer
Pioneer is a Japanese digital entertainment manufacturer founded by Nozomu Matsumoto in 1938. This Tokyo-based company started as a radio and speaker repair shop. It disrupted the car audio market with the first high-fidelity dynamic speaker and the world’s first component in-vehicle stereo. In Mar 2024, Pioneer received a Special Chief Engineer (CE) Award from Toyota for designing and developing its Premium Sound System for LEXUS GX. This audio tech is factory-installed in all new LEXUS GX SUVs. Visit the Pioneer store on Amazon. [1]
Image source: Pioneer
Pros: Pioneer has over 85 years of experience in the car audio market. The brand offers high-quality speakers, amps, and woofers for many vehicle makes and models. For example, the Pioneer TS-F1634R has a 4.5-star rating on Amazon based on over 6,200 customer reviews. This 6.5-inch two-way coaxial speaker costs less than $40.
Cons: Some customers complain about durability and functionality issues with Pioneer car stereos’ buttons. Pioneer’s integrated sound systems cost over $1,000.
2. Kicker
Kicker is a high-performance car audio brand founded in 1973 by Steve Irby and based in Stillwater, Oklahoma. It offers vehicle-specific solutions and sound systems for marine, home, and powersports. In 2024, Kicker introduced KPX Compact Amplifiers for powersports applications and vehicles with minimal space for audio installation, such as hot rods. KPX Compact Amps cost $319.99 at www.kicker.com. Visit the Kicker store on Amazon. [2]
Image source: Kicker
Pros: Kicker products are known for power handling and innovations. The brand serves all consumers, from the mobile and home audio aftermarket to boat and automobile makers. It is the go-to company for high-performance sound systems. You can access Kicker’s car audio products in over 50 countries globally.
Cons: Kicker’s top-end car audio systems can be pricey. However, the cheapest Kicker speakers cost only $49.
3. JBL
JBL is an audio system brand founded in 1946 and owned by Samsung’s subsidiary, Harman International. The brand offers innovative consumer and automotive speakers. In Jan 2024, JBL launched the JBL Legend 700 at CES 2024. This 7-inch Double-Din car stereo is an immersive device with advanced technology and superior sound quality. Visit the JBL store on Amazon. [3]
Image source: JBL
Pros: JBL has served music, lifestyle, gaming, and sports markets for over 75 years. Its sound systems elevate listening experiences with superior audio quality, product designs, and industry-leading innovations. For example, the new JBL Legend 700 has a sleek touchscreen display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth streaming capabilities, and an AM/FM tuner with 30 preset stations. These features can enhance your in-car entertainment experience.
Cons: Some customers complain about durability and connectivity issues.
4. Kenwood
Kenwood is an iconic car audio brand founded in 1946. Its parent company, JVCKENWOOD Corporation, offers in-car entertainment products, two-way radio communications systems, and video equipment. JVCKENWOOD emerged from the 2008 JVC-Kenwood merger. In Jun 2023, Kenwood USA launched its new eXcelon Motorsports audio line for Harley-Davidson motorcycles. Visit the Kenwood store on Amazon. [4]
Image source: Kenwood
Pros: Kenwood offers cutting-edge audio products for automotive and motorcycles. Its car speakers elevate the riding experience with unparalleled sound quality and performance. For example, the Kenwood KFC-1666S delivers enticing bass sounds, high tweeter notes, and world-class power handling. It is one of the top-selling car speakers on Amazon.
Cons: Kenwood’s top-end integrated car audio systems can be expensive, up to over $1k. However, some Kenwood speakers are only $29.
5. Rockford Fosgate
Rockford Fosgate is a car audio brand based in Tempe, Arizona, owned by the Rockford Corporation. It offers high-performance solutions for the mobile, motorsport, and marine audio aftermarket and OEM markets. In Mar 2023, Rockford partnered with Polaris to deliver two first-class factory-installed audio systems for the new Polaris RZR XP platform. Visit the Rockford Fosgate store on Amazon. [5]
Image source: Rockford Fosgate
Pros: Rockford Fosgate is an industry leader in high-performance audio systems. The brand offers innovative speakers, amplifiers, subwoofers, and enclosures. These products can withstand the elements, including UV, mud, water, and sand. For example, the Rockford audio systems installed on the Polaris RZR XP platform are ORR (Off-Road Ready) and deliver crystal-clear sound at any speed or driving conditions.
Cons: Rockford Fosgate amps are susceptible to power supply issues. Ensure you connect your amp to a reliable power source.
6. Sony
Sony is a Japanese entertainment solution provider founded in 1946 and based in Tokyo. Its portfolio offers music and electronics for the consumer and professional markets, including audio systems. In Apr 2024, Sony unveiled the new XAV-AX3700 car AV receivers for $399.99. You can customize XAV-AX3700’s experience to fit your viewing and listening preferences. This model has exceptional wireless audio quality and a sleek design. Visit the Sony store on Amazon. [6]
Image source: Sony
Pros: Sony is a global leader in consumer electronics, including car audio systems. Its award-winning products have inspired music lovers since 1946.
Cons: Sony car audio systems can be pricey. For example, the new XAV-AX3700 costs $399.99.
7. Bose
Bose is an American audio equipment manufacturer founded in 1964 by Amar Bose. The brand is based in Framingham, Massachusetts, and specializes in creating premium in-car audio experiences. In Jan 2024, Bose showcased its latest innovations in automotive sound at CES. The company displayed the Bose 3DX immersive music tech with Dolby Atmos in a Porsche Cayenne concept vehicle. Its 22-speaker Bose system with Centerpoint 360 audio tuning was featured in Qualcomm’s Snapdragon® Digital ChassisTM concept car. Visit the Bose store on Amazon. [7]
Image source: Bose
Pros: Bose is an innovative car audio brand. The company collaborates with carmakers and software developers to custom-engineer its sound systems for each vehicle model. Its process includes musical analysis of the car’s cabin, component selection, integration into the auto structure, listening evaluations, and custom tuning and equalization.
Cons: Connectivity can undermine sound quality.
8. Panasonic
Panasonic is a leading consumer electronics manufacturer founded in 1918 and based in Osaka, Japan. The Panasonic Automotive division offers car audio systems, including stereo, speakers, amps, and subwoofers. At CES 2024, Panasonic collaborated with Infiniti to debut the Klipsch Premier Audio System in the 2025 Infiniti QX80 Monograph. This product enhances audio luxury and performance. The brand also showcased its award-winning ELS STUDIO 3D PREMIUM AUDIO for the Fisker Ocean One. [8]
Image source: Panasonic
Pros: Panasonic has developed innovative audio systems for over 100 years. The brand partners with carmakers to deliver the best in-car sound quality and experience. For example, Panasonic created the Exciter tech used in the Honda Ridgeline RTL-E’s truck-bed audio system. Its new ELS STUDIO 3D PREMIUM AUDIO is energy-efficient and perfect for EV owners worried about their vehicle’s driving range.
Cons: Panasonic car audio systems can be expensive.
9. Bang & Olufsen
Bang & Olufsen is a Danish consumer electronics manufacturer founded in 1925 by Peter Bang and Svend Olufsen. This brand offers audio-visual and telecommunication products. B&O has partnered with premium automakers since 2005 to deliver custom in-car sound experiences. In Jul 2023, Acura transitioned its audio systems from ELS Studio to Bang & Olufsen, starting with the 2024 ZDX EV. Acura joins Bang & Olufsen’s impressive client list, including Audi, Bentley, Lamborghini, Aston Martin, and Genesis. [9]
Image source: Bang & Olufsen
Pros: Bang & Olufsen enhances the luxury in-car sound experience with custom-integrated speakers powered by acoustic lens technology. Its speakers produce the best sound across a 180-degree angle. Each Bang & Olufsen audio system is energy efficient. For example, the Bang & Olufsen Bentley BeoSonic UI has 16 speakers and a 1500-watt DSP amplifier and relies on a BeoCore ICEpower converter to increase efficiency by over 90%.
Cons: Bang & Olufsen is a high-end luxury in-car audio brand. Its products cost more than the market’s average.
10. Skar Audio
Skar Audio is an American car audio brand founded in 2012 by Kevin Schlenker. The brand is based in St. Petersburg, Florida, and specializes in amplifiers, subwoofers, and speakers. As of 2023, Skar Audio packed and shipped car audio systems from its 100,000-square-foot St. Pete warehouse, operated by about 50 full-time employees. Visit the Skar Audio store on Amazon. [10]
Image source: Skar Audio
Pros: Skar offers innovative and affordable car audio systems ranging from $24 to $849.
Cons: Some Skar car audio users complain about voltage issues.
11. BOSS Audio Systems
BOSS is an American audio and video equipment manufacturer founded in 1987 by Sam Rabbani and based in Oxnard, California. Its product lineup includes over 500 products for auto, motorcycle, powersports, and marine applications sold in around 130 countries through retailers and online channels. In Jun 2024, the brand launched its new BOSS Elite Headunits and Amplifiers to elevate the in-car entertainment experience. Visit the BOSS Audio store on Amazon. [11]
Image source: BOSS Audio
Pros: BOSS is a leader in car audio technology. Its affordable, high-quality products offer advanced features for customizing the sound experience. For example, the new BOSS Elite Headunits have an updated touchscreen design, intuitive tactile buttons, and built-in Digital Signal Processor (DSP) capabilities. You can buy BOSS audio products for $15-$310.
Cons: Some customers complain that BOSS digital multimedia systems have low-resolution screens and limited icon color customization.
12. JL Audio
JL Audio is an American car audio brand founded in 1975 and based in Miramar, Florida. It is owned by Garmin and develops world-class audio entertainment solutions, including high-performance stereos, speakers, amplifiers, and subwoofers for the automotive, marine, RV, powersports, and home markets. In Mar 2024, the brand unveiled JL Audio Custom Fit speakers. These mid-range speakers are compatible with popular vehicle makes and models. [12]
Image source: JL Audio
Pros: JL Audio disrupted the car audio market with its innovative subwoofers. It is still the leader in the subwoofer niche. The brand also offers high-quality speakers and amplifiers. You can rely on the new JL Audio Custom Fit lineup to access mid-range speakers for your car regardless of the make or model.
Cons: JL’s top-end car audio products can be pricey. Its prices range from $79 to $2,649.
13. Alpine Electronics
Alpine is a Japanese consumer electronics manufacturer founded in 1967 and based in Tokyo. The brand specializes in car audio and navigation systems. In 2024, Alpine released its updated AudioVisual models compatible with the iDatalink Maestro radio replacement interface solutions. You can pair these products with an Alpine head unit to enhance your car’s audio system without interfering with the factory features. Visit the Alpine store on Amazon. [13]
Pros: Alpine offers innovative, premium car audio solutions, including radios, speakers, subwoofers, and amplifiers for popular vehicle brands. Each Alpine product has robust tools and features. For example, the 2024 iDatalink Maestro solutions offer multi-view and 360° cameras, multi-zone climate and seating temperature control, performance monitoring systems, configurable steering wheel and audio controls, and vehicle settings menus.
Cons: Alpine car audio products are less versatile than systems offered by other brands.
14. Harman Kardon
Harman Kardon is a luxury car audio division of US-based Harman International, owned by Samsung Electronics. The brand was founded in 1953 by Sidney Harman and Bernard Kardon. In Mar 2024, Harman and Renault expanded their partnership to integrate premium sound into the new Renault Scenic E-Tech electric car. You can buy Harman Kardon car audio products on Amazon. [14]
Image source: Harman Kardon
Pros: Harman Kardon has created innovative sound systems for over 70 years. It offers car audio products for the world’s finest automotive brands, including Subaru, Renault, Marine, Kia, Volvo, RAM, BMW, Maserati, and Bentley. Each Harman system merges function and form to deliver the highest quality sound and elegant design.
Cons: Harman Kardon is a premium car audio brand. Its sound systems can be pricey.
15. Orion Car Audio
Orion is a high-performance car audio brand founded in 1984. The brand offers competition-grade amplifiers, subwoofers, speakers, and accessories. In Sep 2024, Orion released its new Orion XTR Amplifier collection and launched the Inventory Swap Program. Visit the Orion Car Audio store on Amazon. [15]
Image source: Orion Car Audio
Pros: Orion is a car audio pioneer with over 40 years in the sector. The brand offers high-quality American-made audio solutions with innovative features.
Cons: Orion doesn’t specialize in specific automotive brands. Ensure the Orion car audio products you wish to buy are compatible with your vehicle.
References & more information
- Pioneer Corporation (2024, Mar 25). Pioneer Premium Sound System is Factory-Installed in 2024 LEXUS GX SUVs. Pioneer Global
- Kicker (2024, Feb 14). Kicker ships new-for-2024 extremely compact KPX Amplifiers. ME Magazine
- JBL (2024, Jan 8). JBL Revolutionizes In-Car Entertainment with the Unveiling of the Legend 700. Harman.com
- Kenwood USA (2023, Jun 23). Kenwood introduces a new eXcelon Motorsports Motorcycle Audio Line engineered for Harley-Davidson Motorcycles. KenwoodUSA.com
- Rockford Fosgate (2023, Mar 7). 2024 Polaris RZR XP Factory Equipped with Stage 1 and Stage 3 Rockford Fosgate Audio systems. PRNewswire
- Sony Electronics (2024, Apr 19). Sony Electronics Introduces New Digital Multimedia Receiver to Car AV Line. Sony.com
- Bose Automotive (2024, Jan 13). Bose puts innovation into overdrive at CES 2024. Bose.com
- Kavipriya, K. (2024, Jan 10). Panasonic showcases in-vehicle solutions for EVs at CES 2024. Telematics Wire
- Abuelsamid, S. (2023, Jul 11). Acura will adopt Bang & Olufsen Audio starting in 2024 with ZDX EV. Forbes
- Popham, N. (2023, Jun 16). Skar Audio overcomes supply-chain issues to thrive in St. Pete. Bay News 9
- BOSS Audio Systems (2024, Jun 19). BOSS Audio Teases BOSS Elite Brand with New Headunits and Amplifiers. CBS17
- Garmin (2024, Mar 21). Garmin introduces JL Audio Custom Fit car speakers. JLAudio.com
- Sound Garage (2024, Mar 5). Alpine released idataLINK Maestro compatible head units for 2024. SoundGarageQLD.com
- HARMAN International (2024, Mar 5). Harman Kardon enriches the next family road trip in the new Renault Scenic E-Tech electric with premium sound. Harman.com
- Orion Car Audio (2024, Sep 5). Orion Unveils New XTR Amps & Inventory Swap Program for Dealers. OrionCarAudio.com
- Featured Image by Dawid Zawiła
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