When it comes to car speakers, they are available in a range of different sizes. The 6.5 speakers are by far the most popular size but the oval shaped 6×9 speakers have more cone surface, which provides better midbass performance.
The best 6×9 speakers are the Hertz Audio HCX 690, which provide deep bass and improved sound quality with a peak power rating of 260 watts and RMS of 130 watts.
Most 6×9 coaxial configurations include a car tweeter and woofer for providing all-round performance. Due to the oval shape, if the factory speakers are not 6 x 9 inches, you may require minor trimming of the mounting area to install it.
Table of Contents
6×9 Car Speakers Comparison
| 6x9 Speakers | Peak Power | RMS |
|---|---|---|
| Hertz CPX 690 PRO | 260 Watts | 130 Watts |
| Infinity Reference Series | 375 Watts | 125 Watts |
| Pioneer TS-A6996R | 650 Watts | 100 Watts |
| Kicker D-Series | 360 Watts | 70 Watts |
| Rockford Fosgate R169X3 | 130 Watts | 65 Watts |
| JBL Club 9630 | 240 Watts | 80 Watts |
| Kenwood KFC-6965S | 200 Watts | 22 Watts |
| BOSS Audio NX694 | 400 Watts | 200 Watts |
| CT Sounds Meso | 240 Watts | 120 Watts |
| Cerwin Vega XED | 350 Watts | 22 Watts |
When comparing the different performance ratings, we advise that you don’t get carried away with the peak power rating. Achieving high power is the easy part but maintaining the sound quality is the much harder. However, the RMS rating is a good indication to the overall quality of the speaker.
The two main types of 6×9 speakers include a coaxial and component but due to the costs involved with component types, we highly recommend coaxial types.
Below is a list of the best 6×9 speakers that will provide additional bass, clarity and are direct replacements to factory speakers.
The Best 6×9 Speakers
1. Hertz CPX 690 6×9 Car Speakers
Hertz are a premium brand and the CPX 690 are high performing 6×9 speakers designed for audio enthusiasts. They are expensive but when you consider the build quality and the superior performance, it’s easy to see why they are the price they are.
In order to optimize the mid-range audio performance, Hertz have integrated various tweets into the design of the 6×9 speakers. It also uses a damped mesh fiber cone and polymer surround for further an improvement in responsiveness.
Other features of the Hertz Audio CPX 690 include:
- Peak power handling 360 watts
- 120 watts RMS
- 4 Ohms
- Die cast aluminum bracket
- Over-sized neodymium magnet
- Pure copper voice coil
- 94 dB sensitivity
- Frequency response range of 32 to 24,000 Hz
Although they are expensive, the CPX 690 PRO 6×9 speakers are one of the best available with superior build quality and performance. Hertz also provide these speakers in several different sizes for any other audio requirements.
Check it Out2. Infinity Reference Series 6×9 Component Speakers
The Infinity Reference Series are a highly rated pair of 6×9 components speakers that are made in the USA. They are a great match for a factory or aftermarket head unit and are powered by up to 125 watts of RMS power.
In terms of the 6×9 components speaker setup, it includes 2 woofers, 2 tweeters and 2 crossovers for maximum performance.
Other features of the Infinity Reference Series include:
- 375 watts peak power
- 125 watts RMS
- 93 dB sensitivity
- Frequency response of 46 to 21,000 Hz
- 3 ohm impedance
- Mounting depth of 3 1/16 inch
- 3/4 inch edge driven textile dome tweeter
- Includes all the mounting hardware
The Infinity Reference Series are the best 6×9 components speakers that are also available in multiple other sizes and types. They provide plenty of bass from the extra large polypropylene woofer and accurate highs from the larger cones. This 6×9 component setup is highly rated by car audio enthusiasts and won’t disappoint.
Check it Out3. Pioneer TS-A6996R Coaxial 6×9 Speakers
Pioneer produce numerous 6×9 speakers and their latest is the TS-A699R A-Series. They are a vast improvement on the previous generation and are still similarly priced. Enhancements to this series includes deeper bass, dynamic range, higher power handling and a tweaked design that looks great.
The brand state that they are designed to replace the factory installed 6×9 speakers and improve upon the performance.
Other features of the Pioneer TS-A6996R include:
- Peak power handling of 650 watts
- RMS of 100 watts
- 93 dB sensitivity
- Multilayered mica matrix cone woofer
- Lightweight elastic polymer surround
- Deep bass compared to OEM alternatives
The Pioneer TS-A6996R are the best 6×9 speakers for bass, which is mostly due to the clever multilayered mica matrix cone woofer. Compared to alternatives with similar performance, these 6×9 speakers offer excellent value for money too.
Check it Out4. Kicker D-Series 6×9 Car Speakers
Kicker are a popular brand due to their affordability and great performance. The D-Series is their latest generation and they are great OEM replacement 6×9 speakers that provide excellent sound quality and the desirable deep bass.
In order to achieve deep bass, the D-Series uses a 2 inch polypropylene woofer that is surrounded by a ribbed polyester foam. For the higher frequencies, it has an enhanced “super tweeter” that focuses on providing maximum clarity to the audio.
Other features of the Kicker D-Series include:
- Peak power handling of 360 watts
- RMS of 70 watts
- 92 dB sensitivity
- Low profile design
- 3 way configuration
- Low profile design for easy installation
- Minimal tweeter protrusion
The Kicker D-Series are excellent all-round 6×9 speakers and the best option for those wanting value for their money. The combination of the build quality and performance can completely transform the audio experience within your car.
Check it Out5. Rockford Fosgate R169X3 Prime 6×9 Inch
In terms of producing deep bass, it uses a vacuum polypropylene cone and rubber surround for mid-range output. To improve clarity, it has two tweeters and a built-in crossover network, which provides excellent sound quality.
Other features of the Rockford Fosgate R169X3 include:
- Peak power handling of 130 watts
- RMS of 65 watts
- 90 dB sensitivity
- Frequency range of 47-20,000 Hz
- Durable stamped steel bracket
- Integrated tweeter crossover
- Includes all mounting hardware
The Rockford Fosgate R169X3 are cheap 6×9 speakers that thoroughly outperform similar priced alternatives. They provide great mid range output and clear highs, which can make a big difference compared to most stock speakers.
Check it Out6. JBL Club 9630 6×9 Speaker System
The JBL Club 9630 are coaxial 6×9 speakers that the brand offer in numerous different sizes. It uses a patented Plus One design and a rugged polypropylene cone to deliver hard hitting bass and improve the longevity.
These 6×9 speakers come as a complete kit, which includes the speakers, mounting brackets, grills, screws, clips, adhesive and instructions.
Other features of the JBL Club 9630 include:
- Peak power of 240 watts
- RMS of 80 watts
- 3 ohm impedance
- 98.5 dB sensitivity
- Frequency range between 50 to 20,000 Hz
- Mounting depth of 3 inches
- Protective grills included
JBL offer both coaxial and component 6×9 speakers but the coaxials are the best option for all-round performance and value for the money. The 9630 model does come with a premium price tag but the low profile design and attractive appearance is worth the extra.
Check it Out7. Kenwood KFC-6965S 6×9 Inches
The Kenwood KFC-6965S are one of the cheapest 6×9 speakers available that actually provide worthy performance. As they are produced by Kenwood, you also have the backing of a reputable brand for peace of mind.
They are a direct replacement to factory 6×9 speakers that are easy to install and provide good mid and high range audio performance.
Other features of the Kenwood KFC-6965S include:
- Peak power rating of 400 watts
- RMS of 45 watts
- 92 dB sensitivity
- 4 Ohms impedance
- Frequency response between 30 to 22,000 Hz
- Top mount depth of 3 inches
- Polypropylene woofer cone
- Ceramic super tweeter
Overall, the Kenwood KFC-6965S are cheap 6×9 speakers that perform far better than you would expect. Compared to similar priced alternatives, these are built by the reputable Kenwood brand instead of unknown audio brands.
Check it Out8. BOSS Audio Systems NX694 6×9 Speakers
The BOSS NX694 are affordable 6×9 speakers that provide full range performance. In terms of the construction, it has two tweeters and a single two inch Mylar cone. The brand also provides all the mounting hardware and durable metal mesh grills.
Although they are cheap 6×9 speakers, they come with an impressive three year platinum warranty for peace of mind.
Other features of the BOSS NX694 include:
- 400 watts peak power
- RMS of 200 watts
- Mounting depth of 1/3 inch
- Frequency range of 45 to 20,000 Hz
- 92 dB sensitivity
- 4 ohm impedance
- Includes metal mesh grills and mounting hardware
- Multiple size options available
For the money, the BOSS NX694 6X9 speakers offer excellent build quality and performance. Unlike similar priced alternatives, they also come with a long warranty for peace of mind, which is testament to the quality.
Check it Out9. CT Sounds Meso 6×9 Inch Speakers
The CT Sounds Meso series are a premium option that packs plenty of bass when wired to an amplifier. It uses a steel basket, polypropylene cone and nitrile butadiene rubber surround, which is designed to provide the best bass and sound quality.
In terms of the sizing, they require a cutout diameter of 8.4 inch, outer diameter of 10.5 inch and a mounting depth of 3.4 inch.
Other features of the CT Sounds Meso Speakers include:
- Peak power rated at 240 watts
- RMS of 120 watts
- 1.5 inch voice coil
- Glass fiber cone and 25 mm silk dome tweeter
- Rated at 4 ohm impedance
- Frequency response between 40 to 6,000 Hz
- Multiple other speaker setups available
Overall, the CT Sounds Meso 6×9 speakers are designed to provide excellent sound quality at loud volumes. The brand state that to achieve the best performance, you will need an amplifier and 18 AWG amplifier wiring.
Check it Out10. Cerwin Vega XED 6×9 Coaxial Speaker Set
The Cerwin Vega Coaxial 6×9 speakers are another cheap option that are ideal for replacing the stock setup. They also offer various other size speakers as well as a component alternative to best suit your requirements.
Other features of the Cerwin Vega XED Coaxial Setup include:
- Peak power of 350 watts
- 22 watts RMS
- 94 dB sensitivity
- Frequency range between 50 to 18,000 Hz
- 4 ohm impedance
- Butyl rubber surround
- Mounting depth of 3.4 inches
- Curvilinear poly cone
As they are one of the cheapest setups available, these 6×9 speakers may not be as long lasting. However, they are an excellent option for those on a tight budget that want a direct replacement for their old or broken speakers.
Check it Out6×9 Speakers Buying Guide
Since audio technology is constantly evolving, it makes sense to upgrade your speaker after a few years. The latest 6×9 speakers can range from 2 way to 5 way and provide all-round performance, which will be a huge improved to old factory setups. They provide a range of benefits that can transform your audio experience.
However, not all speaker mounts are 6×9 and instead are the more common 6.5 inch size. Therefore, you may require cutting the existing mount into the oval 6 x 9 inch shape with custom mounting to ensure a secure fit. This may seem complex but it is fairly straight forward with a bit of patience.
To help you make an informed buying decision, we have produced the below buying guide regarding 6×9 speakers.
Construction of the Speaker
In order to blast deep bass and distortion-free music, the speaker need to be built to a certain standard. The construction of most 6×9 speakers will include a woofer, surround and tweeters, which together provide excellent sound quality and bass.
Tweeters are required to produce the highs and are usually a ceramic, polyurethane material. In the more expensive examples, many even use silk for the tweeter membrane but for better highs, metal, ceramics or graphite are best.
In terms of 6×9 speakers for bass, those that produce the deepest bass will use a woofer made of a polypropylene material. However, there are alternatives that use woven fabrics or other synthetic materials. The surround of the speaker is mostly made of a durable rubber but cheaper alternatives may use a foam to reduce costs.
Peak Power and RMS Ratings
Many people that are new to car audio may focus their comparison research on the peak power rating. Although it is an important rating, it doesn’t indicate the quality of the speaker itself. Instead we advise that you focus on the RMS rating.
RMS refers to “Root Means Square” and is measured in wattage. With regards to car audio, the higher the RMS wattage, the more power the speaker can handle, which correlates to the sound quality of the speaker itself. It is important to note that if the speaker has a high RMS, you may need a car amplifier to achieve maximum performance. If you are still focused on having the maximum amount of power output for serious bass, you should use a subwoofer for your car.
This way the subwoofer can provide the power whereas the 6×9 speakers can focus on sound quality with a higher RMS.
Sensitivity
Speaker sensitivity is measured in dB (Decibels) and refers to the amount of sound the speaker can produce depending on the power it consumes.
In simplistic terms, the higher the sensitivity rating, the louder you can blast music and it will not require as much power. If the sensitivity is low, you can improve the loudness by hooking it up to an amplifier.
Impedance
Another measurement that indicates the quality of a speaker is the impedance. It is measured in Ohms and in general, higher impedance requires more power to produce maximum sound quality. If you already have an amplifier, you will want to match the impedance of the speaker and amplifier.
2, 3, 4 and 5 Way Configurations
The majority of 6×9 configurations will be either a 2 or 3 way. The number refers to the amount of drivers (or speakers) that it uses to output audio. As mentioned in the construction of the speaker, most will have a woofer and tweeter but other may have additional components such as extra tweeters.
More components may sound like it will be the better speaker but it does not always result in better sound quality.
Installation of 6×9 Speakers
Installing 6×9 speakers is an easy tasks as many may be a direct replacement or only require minor adjustments to fit securely.
Below is a basic guide to install the speakers:
- Remove the door card and any other trim covering the existing speaker.
- Disassemble the original speaker and keep all the hardware.
- Carefully remove the wires connecting to the speaker.
- Connect new speaker and any aftermarket wiring or adapters.
- Test that the speaker works before putting the trim back together.
- Improve sound dampening material if required.
- Place the speaker in position and tighten the screws holding it to the mount.
- Ensure all the trim are back to how they were.
Installation is fairly straightforward but some enthusiasts may want to use a custom setup and build a speaker box to mount the speakers into. You really can be creative when it comes to your audio setup and 6×9 speakers are very versatile, which means they can be installed virtually anywhere in the car.
Conclusion
Due to the oval shape of the 6×9 speaker, it has more cone surface, which makes them ideal for improving midbass performance. They can be installed fairly easily and provide better performance than 6.5 speakers in some cases.
All of our recommendations cover a range of speakers that are suited to a range of budgets and perform accordingly. When it comes to audio, the price you pay will reflect on the quality of the audio and we highly advise that you concentrate on the RMS rating than the peak power.
