Proud new owner of 2013 Package 3 Prius (No JBL speakers). Sound quality coming from my stereo is mediocre at best so something needs to be done. I was thinking that easiest thing to do would be to swap speakers in my car for used factory JBL's, but than on the other hand I don't know if they even sound better or do I need something like amp or different capacitors for example. Any guidance would be much appreciated. I'm even open to installing aftermarket speakers, but ideally I would love to have bolt on solution rather than having to make modifications and cut the trim.
mediocre, good description. but i have always felt that way about oem systems. i have always gone aftermarket for better sound.
From 1 to 10, 10 being highest score: Score of 2 - When audio sources are MP3s and any other compressed audio. Score of 6 - With xmradio, cd audio, fm hd radio and any other type uncompressed audio, making the sound system better than most stock car audio systems. The rear speakers come to life; improved imaging + staging. Score of 8 - Uncompressed audio w/an in-line EQ, sound and imaging are amazing. Highs are cymbal highs and lows actually shakes all exterior mirrors. Someday install my DBX RTA spectrum analyzer while keeping all audio component stock. Uses pink noise & mic to detect deficient audio frequencies and restore them through boost and attenuation.
I have a 17 with the JBL. I had to search to find JBL with sunroof. I love the sound system its got lots of bass for a small car. There is a amp under the seat to power the upgraded system. I would just go after market. It will be cheaper and Give you better results. And for your year ive even seen kits for a small woofer in the trunk built into the side Posted via the PriusChat mobile app.
I replaced the CHEAP plastic speakers with some Alpines and that made the stock stereo sound decent. Toyota took the weight trimming to a new level with their stock speakers. I think the only metal in those garbage cones, is the copper wire.
Did they fit right in or did you have to do any modifications? Also do you mind sharing a model number?
You have to buy adapters. The standard speaker configuration will not bolt right in. The speaker package comes with door adapters but Toyota made their speakers proprietary so you’ll have to buy ones that work. You have to shop around on eBay. BTW, the Alpines came with the correct electrical pig tails.
I had the same issue: poor audio with stock head unit and speakers. This was with a 2015 non-JBL audio OEM setup. Please see this link that I posted on the electronics section of Prius Chat. non-JBL audio turned to JBL...sort of | PriusChat I kept the head unit but put in new door speakers with supports, and later, I improved the already vastly improved sound by putting in sound deadening material in doors, under rear seat, and inside trunk area. The sound deadening material was relatively inexpensive ($60+) from Amazon: First thing, though, was the front door speakers. 3 ohm is essential....the system is 4 ohm and dropping down to 3 ohm offers less resistance and from a weak audio unit. Then I bought JBL "Club" speakers that were downsized from the junk ones in front door I think they were 6 1/2" dia. but maybe 6. One needs plastic brackets/holders for this, and a foam cup went over the back of the speaker, connectors--all from a phone call with Crutchfield--they made the suggestions and they were very good at it. All said, it is a simple first step. Install these in the front and be astounded...for a short drive. Then, realizing that you're not all that happy after all, go to the rear seat doors and replace junk speakers with 5.25" dia. JBL "Club" speakers with plastic brackets and foam cups,new connectors. This time I went to Amazon but Crutchfield could do it... (if they carry the 5.25" JBL Clubs). Probably best to get both front and rear door speakers at once, though. (there was a leftover bracket option from the front door speakers that I kept and used for resizing rear door bracket replacements--with a bit of freestyle bolting...). After almost 9 months of this setup and I'm more than pleased enough. Sometimes, depending on the CD, the sound is more concise than the home system which is "very nice indeed." I listen mostly to classical music. Good bass, fine treble (leave the dashboard speaker alone, btw). Set speakers, front/rear/L/R as you like them.... It ain't a live performance but in the Prius it is fine enough...for me.
Looks like the link to Amazon did not transfer. Take a look at this -- Noico 80 mil 36 sqft car Sound deadening mat, Butyl Automotive Sound Deadener, Audio Noise Insulation and dampening
