Help choosing between two speakers

[TJ Jonny]

I’m looking to upgrade the speakers in my TJ. I’m deciding between Alpine Type Rs and Polk MM1s. I’m looking for solid sound with clear bass at higher volumes. I do not want to rattle the glass, I only want clear audio at higher volumes, topless on the highway sort of thing. I have upgraded speakers in there now, but when I have the volume on higher levels, the bass is distorted....even with the bass turned down low. The Polk’s have a higher sensitivity, but I’m thinking the Alpine’s will handle deeper tones better. Both are similar in price at $200 a pair.

Adding an amp is an option I’m considering,but adding a subwoofer is not. Thanks in advance for any input.


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[JMT]

Mid size cones (e.g. 5.25 or even 6”) are never going to reproduce bass tones well. You need an 8” minimally, IMHO. They’re distorting bc you are sending a Hz level at higher dB that those size speakers are not designed to handle. It’s physics.

My suggestion is to turn the bass signal down if you want to turn it up!

 

[TJ Jonny]

Mid size cones (e.g. 5.25 or even 6”) are never going to reproduce bass tones well. You need an 8” minimally, IMHO. They’re distorting bc you are sending a Hz level at higher dB that those size speakers are not designed to handle. It’s physics.

My suggestion is to turn the bass signal down if you want to turn it up!

I agree with the science. That’s why I want to upgrade to a speaker that can do a little better. I don’t want heavy bass at all, just clear audio at higher volumes than my current speakers are able to produce. Currently I have the bass on the “zero” setting and the bass boost setting on the head unit turned off.

So if anyone has experience with the options I shared, I’d love the hear about it. I’ll even consider another option but what I have now just isn’t cutting it.


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[Jeffreybomb]

Does your center console allow for a sub? There are options if it does: you can find replacements for the stock sub spot in the center console that aren't terribly expensive.

If your center console isn't built for a sub, you can replace it. Obviously, it's the more expensive option, but the fringe benefit is that you'll get a sleek lookin' center console out of it. This is the unit I bought, though I don't remember it being that high in price at the time. You can probably find an OEM center console if you hunt around on the usual websites.

Either way, you'll need an amp to power the sub.

 

[Rob5589]

Without a sub you'll never obtain any type of meaningful bass from the dash and pods. Especially in an open air Jeep. I tried adding an amp to my set up and all it did was increase the volume somewhat but actually made the bass worse. Just curious, why is a sub out of the question?

 

[TJ Jonny]

Appreciate the input guys, but I think my point is being missed. I’m not concerned with adding bass, not at all. I want speakers that can perform well at loud volume without distortion.


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[Rob5589]

Appreciate the input guys, but I think my point is being missed. I’m not concerned with adding bass, not at all. I want speakers that can perform well at loud volume without distortion.


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Ah, either one will work fine. To avoid distortion you really should consider adding an amplifier. Again, an open air Jeep, especially on the road, is going to distort the sound so you need some substantial power to, somewhat, overcome it.

 

[skrelnik]

I’m looking to upgrade the speakers in my TJ. I’m deciding between Alpine Type Rs and Polk MM1s. I’m looking for solid sound with clear bass at higher volumes. I do not want to rattle the glass, I only want clear audio at higher volumes, topless on the highway sort of thing. I have upgraded speakers in there now, but when I have the volume on higher levels, the bass is distorted....even with the bass turned down low. The Polk’s have a higher sensitivity, but I’m thinking the Alpine’s will handle deeper tones better. Both are similar in price at $200 a pair.

Adding an amp is an option I’m considering,but adding a subwoofer is not. Thanks in advance for any input.


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As someone else mentioned, do you have a sub in your center console? That adds a small punch but you cannot turn it up too loud since it will rattle. But a Kicker pro comp 6.75" is a great plug and play option.

Others have installed hideaway powered subwoofers but you stuff them under a seat. If you want a stealth build, that option is not for you.

You didn't mention what year Jeep you have, or the sound system, but you can add a 6.5" to the speaker pod and 5.25 in the dash pod.

An amplifier will be what you need though. It will help big time!

I am about to commence another audio upgrade and will be selling off some parts that go well in the Jeep, especially an amplifier, the Kenwood KAC 3004 marine amp. Small, compact, 4 channels and 75 watts per channel. Fits under the steering column and really powers the 4 speakers.

As for your two speaker choices, I would lean towards Polk, not Alpine. You could do better as well, for a couple bucks more check out Focal Performance or Morel Tempo Ultra.

Also, sensitivity is the rating for converting power into sound, not quality or clarity of such sound, and many manufacturers make unrealistic claims about their rarings. So don't let sensitivity be the end all measure when making a decision.

 

[JMT]

I agree with the science. That’s why I want to upgrade to a speaker that can do a little better. I don’t want heavy bass at all, just clear audio at higher volumes than my current speakers are able to produce. Currently I have the bass on the “zero” setting and the bass boost setting on the head unit turned off.

So if anyone has experience with the options I shared, I’d love the hear about it. I’ll even consider another option but what I have now just isn’t cutting it.


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Ok, cool, got it. I’ll take a look at these options when I can settle down for the evening

 

[Steve Rodgers]

1997 TJ SE with sound bar and Pioneer receiver, 14w per channel, if you believe the specs.
I just put in 4 Polk 5.25 two way speakers, two in the dash with Crutchfield rotomolded boxes that just fit, they are stuffed with poly fill. This really improved the dash speakers. The sound bar I had to repair the 6x9 cutouts that the PO hacked in. I stuffed the bar with poly fill and put sound deadening behind two more Polk 5.25 two ways, their DB+ line. This really helped the sound but above about 40mph with aggressive tires and wind noise you would be creating a hearing hazard by trying to raise the sound high enough. It already goes to uncomfortable levels standing still. When you keep getting it louder to overcome the wind and road you are subjecting your ears to well over 90 db, enough to do damage.
My $.02
The Polk DB+ speakers are very clear and easy to hear at reasonable speeds.
Bass will only be achieved with a box designed for it. I am planning a small box under the driver seat with a special driver for limited space I will source from Parts Express, I will power it with a small external amp fed by the Pioneer.

 

[JMT]

Appreciate the input guys, but I think my point is being missed. I’m not concerned with adding bass, not at all. I want speakers that can perform well at loud volume without distortion.


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X2 to @Rob5589 ^^^. Both the Alpine R-S65 and the Polk MM522 and 6502 claim to eliminate distortion. You’d be hard pressed to beat either one according to the specs. However, the Polk seem to edge out the Alpine in two areas; ultra marine and higher peak power rating.

At this price range,

If Polk, go with the MM 522 for the 5.25” in dash and the MM6502 for the soundbar

If Alpine, go with the R-S65 or if you are doing components R-S65C. Not sure if they offer a 5.25”. The X- series are better than either of the speakers you suggested, but they are $$$$.

 

[skrelnik]

X2 to @Rob5589 ^^^. Both the Alpine R-S65 and the Polk MM522 and 6502 claim to eliminate distortion. You’d be hard pressed to beat either one according to the specs. However, the Polk seem to edge out the Alpine in two areas; ultra marine and higher peak power rating.

At this price range,

If Polk, go with the MM 522 for the 5.25” in dash and the MM6502 for the soundbar

If Alpine, go with the R-S65 or if you are doing components R-S65C. Not sure if they offer a 5.25”. The X- series are better than either of the speakers you suggested, but they are $$$$.

You mean the Polk 652, correct? The 6502 is the component set and the 652 is the 2-way coaxial version. Just want to make sure nobody gets confused since these Polks are frequently used in our Jeeps.

 

[JMT]

You mean the Polk 652, correct? The 6502 is the component set and the 652 is the 2-way coaxial version. Just want to make sure nobody gets confused since these Polks are frequently used in our Jeeps.

If you’re wanting to stay away from component speakers, then yes, the 652. Sorry about that. Although, the component set boasted 340 watt peak power, more than the 300 for the 652. May be due to the other speakers!? Not sure how they get these ratings and I’m sure some companies give dubious numbers. Sticking with higher end companies like Polk and Alpine is a solid choice. If this doesn’t work, then you may have to step into a much more expensive set of speakers.

Still not sure why no sub. I only got a sub to hear the full range of music produced by the artist. You don’t have to want to thump to need a sub, and it’s the single best improvement to an audio system. I set mine up where it takes up no otherwise useable space. You could live in my TJ for weeks and not know where the sub is. My .02c.

Edit: read as if written to the OP!

 

[skrelnik]

If you’re wanting to stay away from component speakers, then yes, the 652. Sorry about that. Although, the component set boasted 340 watt peak power, more than the 300 for the 652. May be due to the other speakers!? Not sure how they get these ratings and I’m sure some companies give dubious numbers. Sticking with higher end companies like Polk and Alpine is a solid choice. If this doesn’t work, then you may have to step into a much more expensive set of speakers.

Still not sure why no sub. I only got a sub to hear the full range of music produced by the artist. You don’t have to want to thump to need a sub, and it’s the single best improvement to an audio system. I set mine up where it takes up no otherwise useable space. You could live in my TJ for weeks and not know where the sub is. My .02c.

Edit: read as if written to the OP!

My guess on the peak power delta between the 652 and 6502 would be in the woofer. With a coaxial speaker, the tweeter sits in the middle of the woofer thus reducing the woofers surface area. Also, the cone's material could be different, and the crossover is much better in a component set compared to its sister coaxial set.

The hideaway sub is a great option, but not for everyone, especially if they need space for stuff, or remove the rear seat frequently. I like the idea big time!

This Jeep's audio stinks, but is easily solved for with a myriad of personal preference applications. Add an amp, new speakers, new sub, new head unit, or some combo. All plug and play options are available and any one will show a vast improvement. Audio is easily built in stages so you can build up over time and not feel so much pain in your bank account all at once.

 

[TJ Jonny]

Once again, thanks for the info guys. My current setup is a follows.

Kenwood marine head unit. KMR-D368BT 22w RMS
Dash speakers- Pioneer TS-A 4x6. (These will be upgraded to 5.25 with my next purchase)
Rollbar speakers- Alpine Type S 5.25.

Those are not bad speakers by any stretch, but they are not close to higher end either. I’m figuring if I step up the speakers, it will do what I want. Just play clear audio at higher volume.

I have a few reasons that I don’t want a subwoofer.
-First is I’m not looking to add more bass.
-Second is space. I have the short console with dual cup holders, and very rarely have my rear seat in. I use my Jeep as a utility vehicle/summer cruiser. There isn’t much room to begin with.
-Third is weather. For 4-5 months a year, it’s topless. It can be rained on any time I’m out and about.




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[skrelnik]

Once again, thanks for the info guys. My current setup is a follows.

Kenwood marine head unit. KMR-D368BT 22w RMS
Dash speakers- Pioneer TS-A 4x6. (These will be upgraded to 5.25 with my next purchase)
Rollbar speakers- Alpine Type S 5.25.

Those are not bad speakers by any stretch, but they are not close to higher end either. I’m figuring if I step up the speakers, it will do what I want. Just play clear audio at higher volume.

I have a few reasons that I don’t want a subwoofer.
-First is I’m not looking to add more bass.
-Second is space. I have the short console with dual cup holders, and very rarely have my rear seat in. I use my Jeep as a utility vehicle/summer cruiser. There isn’t much room to begin with.
-Third is weather. For 4-5 months a year, it’s topless. It can be rained on any time I’m out and about.

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Personally I would move the Alpines up front, and then get a pair if 6.5" for the speaker pods. Plus an amplifier. That is all you need at this point to get louder sound that is not distorted. Look up that Kenwood M-3004 amplifier, it is ideal and cost effective.

 

[TJ Jonny]

Personally I would move the Alpines up front, and then get a pair if 6.5" for the speaker pods. Plus an amplifier. That is all you need at this point to get louder sound that is not distorted. Look up that Kenwood M-3004 amplifier, it is ideal and cost effective.

So obviously I can measure after work today, but how do I know if a 6.5 will fit up too? If I remember correctly, the 5.25 was fairly tight.


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[Rob5589]

A guy on another forum put 6.5's in the dash but it required cutting of some of the bracketry and other mods to the dash. Too much work for not much return. A better bet would be to run separates so the tweeters are better positioned to the listener. That along with an amplifier with 75w/channel or more.

 

[TJ Jonny]

I’m referring to the roll bar... I have a 2004. Not sure if it accepts a 6.5


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[JMT]

Most get the adapter for 5.25's in the dash and mount 6.5's on the outside of the 5.25" mount on the soundbar.