The post 12 Best Marine Speakers That Passed Audio Quality Tests Perfectly appeared first on Full Gleam.
After spending hours on research and looked over hundreds of speakers, we’ve compiled a list of best marine speaker and we’ll review all of them in this post.
Fortunately, we manage to find many good marine speakers and wakeboard tower speakers that are designed specifically for your watery escapades.
So, if you have a boat or marine vehicle that you want to have a speaker on then get one of the best marine speakers featured below is perfect!
All of the marine speakers performed wonderfully on audio quality tests and comparative loudness tests. Also, they are marine certified.
Marine certification means that your speakers are made to be exceptionally durable and can withstand more extreme situations than a regular audio speaker.
Below we’ll look at the best boat speakers currently available for sale online.
So, in this article, we’ll explore:
- Best Marine Speakers
- What are Marine Speakers?
- What are the Types of Marine Speakers?
- Considerations When Buying Marine Audio Speakers
- How to Quality Test Waterproof Boat Speakers
- How Much Do Marine Speakers Cost?
- Non-Marine Grade vs. Marine Grade Speakers
- Other Speakers Size and Buying Guide
Also, if you want to learn more than just the best boat speakers, head on over to this article – Best Car Speakers for more information on the best car speakers in the market and buying guides.
Discover the Best Marine Speakers Reviews
The best quality marine speakers aren’t just durable; they also provide you with high power and excellent audio.
So it’s easy to say that the best boat speakers usually produce a better overall performance. However, some people may not need it while others (especially if you get wet often) might.
Also, these speakers not only able to withstand elements like salt water and UV, but it’s also loud and clear so the music is not drowned out by surrounding noises.
Now, let’s look at some of the best marine speakers in the market:
1. Infinity 652m 2-Way Weatherproof 6.5” Marine Speakers
- Polypropylene Woofer/PEI Tweeter
- UV and Weather Resistant Design
- Corrosion Proof Basket
- Stainless Steel Mounting Hardware
Are you looking for speakers that sound great on land and sea? You can find it in the Infinity 652m!
Infinity is known for using sturdy and weather-resistant materials that will keep your speakers working perfectly for years.
They are also known for creating speakers with precise designs.
This speaker model features a polypropylene woofer cone that has a UV-resistant rubber surround that produces the deepest of bass responses. Plus, it can stand up to moisture and sunlight, no worries!
It also has a grille-mounted tweeter that projects high-frequency details clearly. The seals along the speaker act as protection from moisture.
A corrosion-resistant cast-polymer basket also protects this speaker so it won’t deteriorate easily from salt and other weather conditions.
It has a power range of 2-75 watts RMS and peak power of 225 watts.
Key features:
- Sensitivity: 92 dB
- Frequency Range: 50-20,000 Hz
- Impedance: 4 ohms
2. Pyle PLMR605W 6.5 Inch 2 Way Marine Speakers
- COMPLETELY WATERPROOF: This is a marine...
- 200 WATTS POWER: The speaker has a 20 Oz....
- WEATHER RESISTANT: It's a weather resistant...
- LOW PROFILE DESIGN: Constructed with a low...
Will your speakers probably get wet? Then you should definitely get the PLMR605W from Pyle’s Hydra series.
This speaker model is built specifically for use on boats, on the dock, and even by the pool. It was created through resin treatment and to be water-resistant to prevent it from rusting.
Aside from that, this speaker model can produce sound with improved clarity and consistency.
It features a 2-way polypropylene woofer cone with a butyl rubber surround that provides accurate low and midrange frequency details.
It also has a neodymium dome tweeter that can handle clear high frequencies and will leave you with distortion-free sound.
It has a power range of 200 watts RMS and peak power of 400 watts.
Key features:
- Sensitivity: 90 dB
- Frequency Range: 85-20,000 Hz
- Impedance: 4 ohms
3. Sony XSMP1611 6.5-Inch Dual Cone Marine Speakers
- 6-1/2" Dual Cone speaker
- Water-resistant IPx5 certified design
- UV and Salt Water Resistant
- Removable grille
If you know your speakers are in for a wild ride and want maximum durability, then the XSMP1611 from Sony is perfect for you!
It is an expert in both power, performance, and durability that can withstand extreme environments.
This speaker model features a polypropylene dual-cone woofer as well as tweeter that can produce the lowest of lows and the highest of highs clearly.
But the best features? It’s virtually resistant to most weather conditions.
Saltwater today? No problem!
The boiling sun and its harmful UV rays tomorrow? Easy-peasy!
This speaker model has a power range of 2-40 watts RMS and peak power of 140 watts.
Key features:
- Sensitivity: 90 dB
- Frequency Range: 45-20,000 Hz
- Impedance: 4 ohms
4. Kenwood KFC-1653MRB 6.5” Black Marine 2 Way Speakers
- Kenwood 6.5" Black Marine 2 Way Speakers 150...
When it comes to marine audio, Kenwood is one of the top contenders! That’s most especially true if you get their KFC-1653MRB.
The best yet? Kenwood designs all their speakers specifically for power and precision. You know you’re getting your money’s worth.
This speaker model features an injection-molded polypropylene woofer cone with a rubber surround for added durability and peak performance. Its woofer cones are also water-resistant.
It also has a balanced-dome tweeter built into a UV-resistant grille. With the power this speaker has, it can easily play your music while you’re out on the water.
This speaker model has a power range of 2-50 watts RMS and peak power of 150 watts.
Key features:
- Sensitivity: 86 dB
- Frequency Range: 60-20,000 Hz
- Impedance: 4 ohms
5. JBL MS 6520, 6.5” Coaxial Marine Speakers
- Plus OneTM Woofer Cones
- Balanced Dome Tweeters
- Designed for the Elements
- Individually Voiced
When you’re tied up on the dock, any kind of speaker will do. But factor in the wind, the sea, and the seagulls and you probably will have a hard time hearing your music.
Not if you install the MS 6520 from JBL since it’s specifically made for marine use. You can turn it up as loud as you can.
This speaker model features a polypropylene woofer cone with synthetic rubber surround and is even fortified with Plus One™ technology.
It also has balanced-dome tweeters built into UV-resistant and corrosion-resistant grilles. You are guaranteed a very rich and dynamic musical experience.
Not to mention that this speaker can easily handle sun, salt, and other weather damage for years.
It has a power range of 20-60 watts RMS and peak power of 180 watts.
Key features:
- Sensitivity: 90 dB
- Frequency Range: 50-20,000 Hz
- Impedance: 4 ohms
6. Jensen MSX60RVR 6.5” Coaxial Marine Speakers
- Sold in pairs; Specifically designed for...
- Polypropylene woofer cone; ASTM B117 salt...
- 65Hz-20kHz Frequency response; 88 db...
- 4 ohms Nominal impedance; 6.5 Inches coaxial...
The Jensen MSX60RVR is an excellent choice for you if you’re going to use your speakers mostly for outdoor entertainment.
After all, it is specially designed to withstand the harsh situations that come with going outside.
You won’t need to worry about sun and UV ray damage, sea salt spray, and even a few splashes of water. This speaker model can handle them just fine!
It features a polypropylene woofer cone that can provide amazing low and midrange frequency response.
It also has a titanium dome tweeter that handles high-frequency details with clarity and precision.
This speaker model has a power range of 35 watts RMS and peak power of 75 watts.
Key features:
- Sensitivity: 88 dB
- Frequency Range: 65-20,000 Hz
- Impedance: 4 ohms
7. Rockville RWB80B 8”, 2 Way Black & White Marine Tower Speakers
- Rockville RWB80B Pair of 8" Black WakeBoard...
- Adjustable Nylon Mounting Bracket Reinforced...
- Fully Marinized Against Salt & Fresh Water...
- Polypropylene Mica Injected Cone with...
At first glance, you might think that the power ratings of the RWB80B are wrong. No way it can be that high! Think again, because it is!
Not only is this speaker model extraordinarily durable but it is also highly powerful.
This marine tower speaker has a mounting bracket made from plastic reinforced with nylon and steel.
That way you can easily adjust them and know that your speakers are securely in place.
This speaker model features a polypropylene mica-injected cone with a Santoprene surround. It also features a polyamide dome neodymium midrange tweeter. Sound quality has never been this good!
This speaker model has a power range of 200 watts RMS and peak power of 300 watts.
Key features:
- Sensitivity: 98 dB
- Frequency Range: 60-20,000 Hz
- Impedance: 4 ohms
8. BOSS Audio MR690, Full Range 2 Way Weatherproof 6×9 Marine Speakers
- Impedance: 4 Ohms, Frequency Response: 60 Hz...
- Cone: Polypropylene, Voice Coil: 1 Inch...
- Surround: Treated Cloth, Basket: Plastic
- One 1 Inch Mylar Dome Tweeter Per Speaker
If you’re looking for state of the art technology in speaker, the MR690 speaker from BOSS Audio is the perfect match!
This 6×9 inch speaker is made to be weatherproof, and it shows with the materials used in its production.
In fact, special UV coatings were used to coat its surfaces and boards to protect them from outdoor pollutants and corrosion.
This speaker model features a polypropylene woofer cone with treated cloth surround. It also features a mylar dome tweeter.
Needless to say, this full range speaker can provide you with fantastic sound quality.
This speaker model has a power range of 175 watts RMS and peak power of 350 watts.
Key features:
- Sensitivity: 92 dB
- Frequency Range: 60-20,000 Hz
- Impedance: 4 ohms
9. Polk Audio DB651 6.5”, 2-Way Marine Certified Speakers
- 60 Watts RMS Each, 180 Watts Max Each
- 3/4" (19mm) aluminum dome tweeter
- Dynamic Balance polypropylene cone
- 4 Ohm Impedance
The reason that Polk Audio DB651 is better than the rest is that they are Marine Certified.
That means it’s more durable than regular speaker models and can get wet without damaging the internal components.
This speaker model features a lightweight dynamic balance polymer/mica composite mineral filled cone woofer.
It also has a ¾” liquid-cooled silk/polymer composite dome tweeter and high pass and low pass crossover filters / low-mass 2-layer 25mm Kapton voice coil former.
While durability is a key factor here, they also deliver crisp, clean sound that will turn your boat into a dance floor in no time.
Even with the motor running, you can hear these speakers loud and clear. Best of all, they have high and low pass crossover filters and won’t overheat.
This speaker model has a power range of 120 watts RMS and peak power of 360 watts.
Key features:
- Sensitivity: 92 dB
- Frequency Range: 35-22,000 Hz
- Impedance: 4 ohms
10. Clarion CMQ1622RL 6.5” Marine Coaxial Speaker
- Built-in blue LED lighting; 200 watts maximum...
- 6.5-inch mica-injection polypropylene woofer...
- Meets or exceeds both ASTM B117 (Salt Fog...
- Mounting hole requirement: 5-3/4-inches;...
The Clarion CMQ1622RL is excellent for the overall audio quality. It’s hard to distinguish when compared to many top-rated speakers.
However, this speaker is best from the low-end and steadily gets less accurate as it gets higher.
The best feature of this speaker is the comparative loudness which it performs excellently.
That’s a little surprising when you consider that its 88-dB sensitivity rating is the lowest available for a marine speaker.
This speaker model features a mica-injection polypropylene woofer Cone; 1-1/4-inch Compression Horn tweeter; high impact ASA plastic grille and Ferric Oxide Magnet.
The one downside of CMQ1622RL speakers is power handling. Its continuous power handling is rated for 60 RMS watts, and its peak power handling is rated for 120 watts.
Key features:
- Sensitivity: 88 dB
- Frequency Range: 49-20,000 Hz
- Impedance: 4 ohms
11. Kicker 11 KB6000W 6-1/2” Marine Speaker
- ALL WEATHER - The Kicker KB6000 is designed...
- DON'T SETTLE FOR GOOD, BETTER, BEST, GET...
- NO REPLACEMENT FOR DISPLACEMENT! In the...
- MOUNTING HARDWARE INCLUDED FOR VERSATILE...
If you need speakers that can handle wet environments this 2-way marine speaker from Kicker can get the job done well.
Not only is this device being waterproof, but it’s more powerful than most “Marine Certified” speakers out there.
It has 8 ohms of impedance (compared to the usual four), and they can handle up to 75 watts of power each and max at 150 watts.
Best of all, they have a frequency range of 55Hz to 21kHz, meaning that no matter how loud or soft your music is it comes through with crystal clarity.
Key features:
- Sensitivity: 90 dB
- Frequency Range: 55-21,000 Hz
- Impedance: 8 ohms
12. Pioneer TS-MR1640 6.5-Inch 2-Way Marine Speakers
- Water-resistant white IMPP composite woofer
- 1-1/8-inch PEI dome tweeter with magnetic...
- Strenuously resists water, corrosion, and...
- 6-1/2-inch marine two-way speakers with 160...
This Pioneer TS-MR1640 6.5″ Marine Speaker are diligently designed to meet current the tough boating and marine requirements for a speaker.
The TS-MR1640 is excellent at resisting the effects of salt water, humidity, and extreme heat.
Each speaker utilizes an elastomer surround that resists color fading or running, which further extends their longevity.
The 1-1/8 Poly-Ether Imide Dome tweeter with magnetic fluid delivers rich and smooth highs in your music.
Also, its popular injection-molded polypropylene (IMPP) cones produce an outstanding mid-bass response.
And, this speaker has a power range of 30 watts RMS and peak power of 160 watts
Key features:
- Sensitivity: 91 dB
- Frequency Range: 30-30,000 Hz
- Impedance: 4 ohms
What are Marine Speakers?
Just by its name, you will know that marine speakers work best as boat speakers.
However, they are not just for that.
Don’t be confused! While marine audio speakers work the best for water use, they aren’t solely for that.
Marine certification can merely mean that your speakers are made to be exceptionally durable and can withstand more extreme situations than a regular audio speaker.
Did you know that marine speakers make excellent outdoor speakers? You can mount them to your house, ATV, motorcycle, RV, or any other toy you take outside. – Elizabeth Carver, TopTenReviews
This is because marine speakers are designed with a sturdier build so that it can take on physical shocks with no problem.
Aside from that, these speakers are created to be loud as they might need to combat open space and noise from boat engine, wave, etc.
They are also usually moisture-resistant, UV-resistant and saltwater-resistant as well.
What are the Types of Marine Speakers?
Whether you’re looking for the marine Bluetooth speaker or simple waterproof marine speakers, you should know that even the marine speakers have different types.
You can further divide them into three.
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Coaxial Marine Speakers
If you only have a small budget for an upgrade and want to do this project with minimal effort, going with coaxial marine speakers is the best for you.
This type of speakers is easy to install, requires lesser space, and comes at affordable prices.
Coaxial marine speakers are designed to have different drivers mounted on just one axis.
Most feature a cone woofer which can sometimes be obstructed by the tweeter. Coaxial speakers can provide high performance but not as dynamic as a component speaker.
-
Component Marine Speakers
If you’re looking for the best possible upgrade that will provide you with premium performance, then you would get the best from component marine speakers.
A component speaker system is harder to install and may require professional help. They are also more expensive than coaxial speakers.
However, the more sophisticated design of component speakers can provide a more dynamic experience overall.
This is because you can individually place your tweeter, midrange driver, and woofer around your boat for better acoustics.
-
Wakeboard Tower Speakers
Wakeboard tower speakers are a type of marine speakers that can be mounted on a boat’s wakeboard tower, pole, or rail.
They have the same highly durable features as a marine speaker.
Learn more about a complete marine sound system by watching this video:
Considerations When Buying Marine Audio Speakers
When looking for the best waterproof marine speakers, there are a few considerations you need to take.
It’s just like looking for regular speakers. You have to check the features and design to ensure that the speaker model you’re about to buy fits your needs perfectly.
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Use of Speakers
Now that you know that marine speakers don’t necessarily have to be installed in boats, you can choose your specifications depending on speaker use.
Determine which type of activity you will mostly like to use your speakers for.
You can forego water-resistant properties but might want better UV-resistant features if it’s for ATV and outdoor parties.
Likewise, you might want speakers that can battle the loud crashing of waves if you install it on a boat that is in open water most of the time.
-
Power Handling Compatibility
Before buying your new boat speakers, be familiar with the limitations of your sound system. That means checking out your power handling specs.
Most buyers would think that having a higher power handling spec is better, and that is somewhat true.
Speakers with higher power handling specifications tend to be more durable and have the capacity to be louder.
However, going higher is not always the case. It’s more important that your specifications are compatible with your stereo or amplifier’s output.
Make sure to match your impedance levels so that you can prevent problems caused by overpowering or underpowering.
-
Speaker Durability
Most features between marine and car speakers do not differ hugely, except for their durability.
Boat speakers are more durable without a doubt. This is because they need to be able to handle life at sea (or on whatever body of water your boat is).
It’s safe to say that marine speakers are more exposed to different situations. Sun, salt, moisture, and weather are just some of the things they have to fend off.
That is why it is crucial for you to get speakers that are marine-certified when you want to install it on your boats and other off-road vehicles.
-
Speaker Design & Materials
The materials used in marine speakers are critical to their overall performance and longevity.
Remember that these types of speakers are usually for outdoor use so they will encounter harsher situations.
A sturdy speaker should be able to withstand most bending, breaking, and even tearing.
You should also check that it is resistant to ultraviolet rays, dust, water, and most especially corrosion.
For a better aesthetic experience, you should also get a speaker that will not fade or change color easily.
-
Short Protection
Since you’ll be investing in these speakers, you should do your best to ensure that it lasts longer.
After all, they cost quite a bit.
Especially when the amplifier design involves costly MOSFETs, the design becomes specifically vulnerable to short circuits at the outputs. – Homemade Circuit Projects
Getting a speaker with short protections allows your speakers and amplifiers to be safe from problems like overheating and electrical shorting.
-
Remote Operations
This feature isn’t as important as some, but it will provide you with better comfort.
Instead of having to walk to your console to change the volume and other controls, having a remote-controllable speaker allows you to use your speaker from anywhere in the boat.
You don’t need to move all that much.
-
Wireless Streaming
Another not-so-critical but convenient and enjoyable feature is having wireless streaming.
With wireless-enabled speakers, you can use your smartphone and the internet via Bluetooth to play songs that you love without any problems.
-
Installation Process
You might think that installing your speakers is easy. All you need to do is unplug your current speakers and rewire your new ones.
But it’s not as straightforward. There are many ins and outs in electrical wiring that most DIY-ers do not grasp.
This can be the basis for many different speaker problems in the future. Be safe. It’s more worth it to have professionals install your speaker system instead.
Want to learn more about marine speaker installation? Watch this video:
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Cost
You must decide on a budget and stick to it.
However tempting it is to shop for the most expensive speaker, it wouldn’t help if you go broke or it doesn’t fit your actual needs.
Overspending is a dangerous problem to have. So, before looking for speakers, set a realistic budget and stick to it.
-
Water Resistant
You should be looking at the water rating on your speakers. Water resistant is not the same as waterproof. This means they are able to handle some rain or sea spray.
It is best to get waterproof if you think they will often be getting wet, but do your best to keep them dry!
Waterproof suggests they are better able to handle been dumped into a bucket of water. However, even waterproof speakers are not designed to stay in the water.
-
Consider an Amplifier
Depending upon the volume level you feel you need from your speakers you may need to consider purchasing an amplifier to accompany your new speakers.
Using an amplifier will also help to keep the sound clear as the sound is amplified and not just turned up; you may be surprised at just how good your music can be.
How to Quality Test Waterproof Boat Speakers
But how do you know if you actually got the best boat speakers?
You can test them first, of course.
The best way is to know what to listen for.
It’s best to use songs that you know really well to hear what the speakers are capable of. – Simon Lucas, What Hifi?
The acoustics of your speakers’ location also plays a critical role in their performance.
Playing inside a cabin and outside on the deck will need different executions. The same goes for playing in a calm lake and a rough ocean.
Make sure to test your speakers in the location you will most likely frequent.
Check out this ready-made playlist if you want to test your speakers: 10 of the Best Songs To Test Your Speakers.
How Much Do Marine Speakers Cost?
Usually, the price depends on the speaker size and speaker type.
However, don’t be surprised if they are more expensive than regular car speakers.
Remember that the materials used for marine speakers are more durable and specially designed to handle water and even UV rays.
To give you an idea of how much these speakers are:
- 6.5” coaxial speakers = $60-$200 for a pair
- Component speakers = $150-$600 for a pair
Non-Marine Grade vs. Marine Grade Speakers
You might think that marine speakers can offer you the best sound quality. Granted, the best marine speakers might do just that.
However, the better sound quality is not always a guarantee.
The main difference between non-marine and marine grade speakers is that the latter is more solidly made.
That means they can resist harsher weather and other situations better than the average speaker.
You can opt for marine-certified speakers on your car if durability is your priority. They will work just as fine.
But it’s not advisable for you to use regular car speakers on your boat and off-road vehicles since they are not made to withstand extreme situations.
Other Speakers Size and Buying Guide
When you’re looking for automotive speakers, the best marine speakers aren’t your only choice.
Indeed, there are many options to choose from. Think about it! Even the simple act of buying a marine speaker can be challenging because of the many varieties.
That’s why it’s a good idea that you should know more about car speakers and what you’ll probably have to get for your project.
So, you might want to check out the articles below for more information:
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