14 LE JBL Dash Speaker Replacement

[DarthYota]

Howdy Folks,

Blew my driver's side dash speaker in my 2014 Limited with JBL and Nav.

I dont have a strong knowledge of car audio. Not looking to perform a full system swap ie HU, amps, and speakers. Just want a good replacement for these speakers and then maybe swap the front doors, sub, and dynamat at some point down the road if/when needed.

I subscribe to the buy once cry once theory so I'm willing to spend up to $300 for the front dash alone but the higher-priced options seem negligibly better. That threshold seems extremely easy to stay within as most are under $100.

Been reading and researching for several weeks.

Forum search sucks...returns 0 results for JBL :/

I've read most if not all of the major threads regarding dash replacements. Unfortunately, most threads are for base, not JBL. Most of the threads for JBL are for 2010-2013 or 2019-current models which seem to be different and the latter have their own set of issues. Most of the threads reference speaker models that are no longer available. 29 pages about a model you can't even find now. What a PITFA.

Don't have the full tech spec's on the JBL system ie what rms and peak are sent to the dash or each speaker. If anyone can provide that schematic, please do.

The system is 2ohm, but nobody really makes any true 2ohm speakers anymore. From what I cant tell, the only real impact of moving to a higher ohm speaker is less volume? Not even sure if that's correct. I've read of successes with 4ohm speakers but more often people say they weren't loud enough. With all windows open and cruising at 80 I generally have the JBL system turned up all the way and still wish for a little more volume. So the thought of losing volume is not exciting me.

Then again, I read this post and I'm even more depressed.

https://www.toyota-4runner.org/3469798-post608.html

"...For that matter the 4 or 5 sets I tried were the same with regards to mid range. If I could pair the the tweeters of the Hertz units with the mid-range of the stock JBLs, I'd be 100% satisfied. "

ugh...does nobody just make a solid kick-ass replacement?

But this is not a "nice to have...ooo lets tinker". This is phone calls and 50% of songs sound like shit, so must do.

Here is what I can find currently available, assuming listings are accurate.

Infinity Ref 3022cf - 2.65ohm - 25W/75W - 91.7db - 85-21k Hz
Infinity Reference 3022cf 3-1/2" 2-way car speakers at Crutchfield

Infinity Ref 3032cf - 2ohm - 25W/75W - 91.7db - 85-21k Hz
Infinity Reference 3032cf 3-1/2" 2-way speakers at Crutchfield

Cant figure out the difference between the above two. Also both are discontinued but still available models.

JBL GX328/9 - 2.3 ohm - 25W/75W - 89dB - 90-21kHz
Amazon.com: JBL GX328 3-1/2" Coaxial Car Audio Loudspeakers : Electronics

JBL GX302 - 2.3ohm/3 - 50W/150W - 89db - 90-21k Hz
GX302 | Ready-to-use design 8.7 cm 2-way speaker with high output, (2.3 Ohms)

Both JBL's appear to be discontinued but are still readily available on Amazon. Other than wattage cant really figure out the diff. Have the read that the new Club is not very good.

Infinity Ref 3032cfx - 3/4ohm - 25W/75W - 91db - 85-21k Hz
https://www.infinityspeakers.com/speakers/REFERENCE+3032CFX.html

Ok wtf. 3 ohm at the speaker but 4 ohm when you include the wire? Why the marketing BS. Use the same damn intentions as everyone else. So do I consider this a 3ohm or 4ohm compared to the market.

Hertz DCX 87.3 - 4ohm - 30W RMS/60W PK- 92db - 130-21k Hz
https://hertz-audio.com/product/car-audio-coaxials-dieci-dcx87_3/

Possibly the best of the 4ohm options? How much does the 40hz diff on the low end really matter?

JL Audio C2-350 - 4ohm - 10-25W/75W - 86db - 130-22k Hz
https://www.jlaudio.com/products/c2-350x-car-audio-speakers-c2-coaxial-systems-99611

Seems like a lot of people who bought these ended up taking them out.

Kicker KSC350 47KSC350 - 4 ohm - 50W/100W - 88db - 80-20khz
https://www.kicker.com/47KSC350

KS option seems to be their top option but cant really tell for sure. Is it the best of their lineup?

Yes, I know there are other 4ohm options out there - Boston Acoustics SE5, Polk DB351, MB Quart, Memphis, Pioneer, Skar, etc but their stats seem to be lesser than the 4ohm options listed above or also discontinued.

I dont really want to want to go through multiple rounds of ordering and installation if I can avoid it. Not easy to find stuff to go listen to nowadays.

I'm leaning towards the JBL's since they seem to be more current than the first two Infinity's, and well, the system is JBL to start with. Is it best to just pay the markup on the factory replacement? Is there another option I'm missing?

TIA for your input, assistance, and education.

Chris

 

[DarthYota]

Just realized on crutchfield that the JBL Club 3020 has been replaced with the Club 322F....which JBL's own site doesn't even list. Found it on their site through google though. WTF. Why is this so hard.

Club 322F

Seems like it gets good reviews and is comparable to the GX's except that it's 3ohms.

 

[DarthYota]

Narrowed it down to Infinity and JBL due to ohms.

Ended up ordering the JBL GX328 since they would arrive sooner than the GX302 and after further review, they seem to be identical save for cosmetic differences. Looks like the 302's were the US version and 328's were non-US as best I can tell. Can't really find much on the net.

Also chose the JBL's over the infinity's due to multiple reports of the infinity's being harsh and too bright on the high end. Which I typically dont like. And the 2ohm inifnity's are significantly older.

If the JBL's arent good I may just return and get a stock toyota JBL speaker as it seems like prices have down to around $60-75 per.

 

[matoolie]

When I was researching for possible dash speakers I was leaning toward JBL’s and found same thing about the model numbers…lack of info here, but some info there, nothing real clear. I never replaced them.

Please let us know how they sound once you get them installed.

 

[DarthYota]

When I was researching for possible dash speakers I was leaning toward JBL’s and found same thing about the model numbers…lack of info here, but some info there, nothing real clear. I never replaced them.

Please let us know how they sound once you get them installed.

Will Do. I know it won't be accurate but I'll change out the driver side first since that one is blown and take a short video from my phone of the difference. Obviously ymmv given phone recording, your computer, song choices etc. , but it will provide something.

The one thing I'm still unclear on is bass blockers. Seems a lot of JBL Premium system owners skipped them since it's built into the amp and another built into the speakers, but then some LE owners said they needed to put them in. Would prefer to just do it all once rather than install without and then find out I have to redo it because I need them. Just not sure which bass blockers I would need with the LE JBL system.

 

[DarthYota]

When I was researching for possible dash speakers I was leaning toward JBL’s and found same thing about the model numbers…lack of info here, but some info there, nothing real clear. I never replaced them.

Please let us know how they sound once you get them installed.

where in VA are you?

 

[matoolie]

Will Do. I know it won't be accurate but I'll change out the driver side first since that one is blown and take a short video from my phone of the difference. Obviously ymmv given phone recording, your computer, song choices etc. , but it will provide something.

The one thing I'm still unclear on is bass blockers. Seems a lot of JBL Premium system owners skipped them since it's built into the amp and another built into the speakers, but then some LE owners said they needed to put them in. Would prefer to just do it all once rather than install without and then find out I have to redo it because I need them. Just not sure which bass blockers I would need with the LE JBL system.

I am not sure about capacitors or bass blockers. My guess you will probably not need them with the JBL system. The factory speakers are 2-ways, but I do not think there is a capacitor on them. So either there is one in the wiring or the JBL amp filters the lows out. If one does seem to be needed, I think the new JBL's you bought has them in the box for optional use.

I am in Richmond area.

 

[DarthYota]

Well...got the blown drivers side done today.

Did not use any additional bass blockers. No crackling, popping etc. so that's good.

Followed this thread for wiring and bracket cuts. Mine matched up. Pretty easy.

JBL Speaker Only Upgrade Install/Write-up

It did take a little finagling to get it into place.

I. just. dont. know.

I am not an audiophile. My hearing isn't the best at picking out nuances. I like it loud. lol.

The GX328 on the drivers side definitely isn't as loud but I believe sounds clearer in some instances. ie hearing individual strumming behind a voice. Whereas the stock is louder, sound fuller/warmer, but also a little muddier.

I'm having a hard time with which way to go - GX328 both sides or buy a new stock JBL for the drivers.

I had a little playlist queued up on spotify but trying to record the video killed that so I just ran through some tunes on old iPhone that's now an iPod.

I know everyone hears differently but what do you guys think? About 1/2 to 2/3 through the video I started balancing front to rear instead of just all front, while shifting left to right.

2014 4runner Limited - JBL GX328 vs stock JBL dash - YouTube

 

[osugsxr]

Well...got the blown drivers side done today.

Did not use any additional bass blockers. No crackling, popping etc. so that's good.

Followed this thread for wiring and bracket cuts. Mine matched up. Pretty easy.

JBL Speaker Only Upgrade Install/Write-up

It did take a little finagling to get it into place.

I. just. dont. know.

I am not an audiophile. My hearing isn't the best at picking out nuances. I like it loud. lol.

The GX328 on the drivers side definitely isn't as loud but I believe sounds clearer in some instances. ie hearing individual strumming behind a voice. Whereas the stock is louder, sound fuller/warmer, but also a little muddier.

I'm having a hard time with which way to go - GX328 both sides or buy a new stock JBL for the drivers.

I had a little playlist queued up on spotify but trying to record the video killed that so I just ran through some tunes on old iPhone that's now an iPod.

I know everyone hears differently but what do you guys think? About 1/2 to 2/3 through the video I started balancing front to rear instead of just all front, while shifting left to right.

2014 4runner Limited - JBL GX328 vs stock JBL dash - YouTube

I did the following:
Sony 8100
Front : Focal IS690TOY Integration Series 2-Way 6" x 9" Component
Rear/Tail: Powerbass OE652-TY 6.5

The focals were purchased from ABT with a discount, they're listed at $279. Highly recommend these speakers, and I'm debating if I'll replace the rear doors with the focal 6.5". The sound is great and would buy again. The power bass are good and fill out the rear. The focal over power the PB if fade is centered. I played with the fade all the way to towards the rear and the PBs have solid bass, highs and are clear.

When looking for speakers I kept in mind the sensitivity (1W at 1 meter). The higher the better for the speakers. It was either Powerbass or JL audio c1650x and I went the plug and play route.

 

[DarthYota]

I did the following:
Sony 8100
Front : Focal IS690TOY Integration Series 2-Way 6" x 9" Component
Rear/Tail: Powerbass OE652-TY 6.5

The focals were purchased from ABT with a discount, they're listed at $279. Highly recommend these speakers, and I'm debating if I'll replace the rear doors with the focal 6.5". The sound is great and would buy again. The power bass are good and fill out the rear. The focal over power the PB if fade is centered. I played with the fade all the way to towards the rear and the PBs have solid bass, highs and are clear.

When looking for speakers I kept in mind the sensitivity (1W at 1 meter). The higher the better for the speakers. It was either Powerbass or JL audio c1650x and I went the plug and play route.

Yeah, I may do the doors somewhere down the road but my main goal was to get the blown dash replaced. You didn't mention dash speakers. Did you leave them stock? IIRC I looked at focals for the dash but they were only tweeters and would force me the upgrade the doors now in order to retain full sound reproduction.

 

[DarthYota]

Yeah, I may do the doors somewhere down the road but my main goal was to get the blown dash replaced. You didn't mention dash speakers. Did you leave them stock? IIRC I looked at focals for the dash but they were only tweeters and would force me the upgrade the doors now in order to retain full sound reproduction.

NM...i read too quick and see that's a component system with the tweets. Do you have the JBL system?

 

[osugsxr]

NM...i read too quick and see that's a component system with the tweets. Do you have the JBL system?

non jbl, I dont think it makes a difference once you pull the head unit.

 

[97BlackAckCL]

non jbl, I dont think it makes a difference once you pull the head unit.

The JBL has an amp, totally different configuration

 

[Jeremy556]

non jbl, I dont think it makes a difference once you pull the head unit.

It does. The JBL system uses a separate amp and 8" sub in the rear cargo area and all 2 ohm speakers, which makes replacement with aftermarket speakers difficult to impossible without losing a lot of power from the OEM amp.

 

[SkidPalace]

Chiming in here. Thanks for making this thread [MENTION=248103]DarthYota[/MENTION].
So happy to see a thread with someone in EXACTLY the same predicament as I am. In my case the passenger side dash speaker is the blown unit in my '15 Limited. I am looking for as simple a replacement as possible for just the blown speaker if possible. I'd rather not spend close to a hundred dollars to replace a single cheap OEM speaker with another cheap OEM speaker. I'd also prefer not to go tearing into the doors to replace with a component setup. Forget about swapping the head unit and amp.
I have built my share of custom car audio systems and frankly, I was relatively satisfied with the sound produced by the JBL system in my truck. With decent quality music and proper tone controls the system can belt out pretty clear sound at a pretty loud volume.
All that said I have bought a couple of pairs of speakers to try out.
I bought these Red Wolf speaker harness adapters to make the install easier and they seem to work great, even though the 2015 LE is not listed in the description.
I have the Pioneer TS-A709 2 3/4" 2-ways that are rated at 4 ohm but measure 3.2 across the terminals. These drop right into the stock brackets plug and play. Unfortunately they are practically inaudible. Completely useless by anyone's standards.
I also have the Infinity 3032cfx. These are rated at 3 ohms but measure 2.4 across the terminals. These at least made a bit of sound, but nowhere near the level of the stock speaker.
Suffice to say I am not real happy with either choice.
I have JBL GX328s and GX302s on order arriving next week. After hearing your video, I might just go ahead and cancel them. They were not any louder than the Inifinitys.
[MENTION=248103]DarthYota[/MENTION] What did your GXs measure across the terminals?
I might try to find the 2-ohm 3032cf Infinitys you mentioned and give them a go in the event that they come in with an impedance lower than the cfx model I tried.

 

[SkidPalace]

As a follow up, I just measured the stock speaker and it is 2.0 across the terminals as expected.

 

[dauphin]

I know everyone hears differently but what do you guys think? About 1/2 to 2/3 through the video I started balancing front to rear instead of just all front, while shifting left to right.

2014 4runner Limited - JBL GX328 vs stock JBL dash - YouTube

I'm no audiophile either, and I am a newbie regarding audio modifications. But like you, I have had trouble finding anyone with my -exact- scenario to look to for tips. I have a 2011 Limited with JBL w/ Nav (*with 3rd row seats). I -might- be replacing my dash speakers, but I am going to have to probably start a new post to get a little help with my troubleshooting (sound quality is fine. They go in and out (as a pair), typically with bumps in the road!?!).

Anyway, like you and a few others on the forum, I'm not interested in doing a complete overhaul of the system (although I originally started looking at my options for modifications because I would like just a little more bass. But that became secondary once my dash speakers started getting flaky). It seems like it's a bit of an all-or-nothing on "fixing" things because of the way the HU/amp/door/dash, etc. are all kind of "designed" to work a certain way. And I am in no place to re-think their logic. I was disappointed to see your comment that adequate replacements for the dash speakers are few and far between. Ugh.

Back to your stated question: maybe it's because I'm used to the way my system sounds, but I like the stock speaker's sound much more. Based on the price you mentioned for stock JBL's (plus the reduced quantity of tweaks/testing needed), and your video, that's probably the direction I'm headed in (if in fact they need replacing).

 

[DarthYota]

It does. The JBL system uses a separate amp and 8" sub in the rear cargo area and all 2 ohm speakers, which makes replacement with aftermarket speakers difficult to impossible without losing a lot of power from the OEM amp.

yeah I'm just stunned that .3 ohms makes such a big difference.

are the stock JBL's just super efficient.

my buddy brought up a good point too (I think, without fully understanding the tech) that this is a 3.5 inch speaker with a larger magnet, so even if it was same ohms and everything else being equal, there is more magnet/cone for the same amount of energy to push which would probably cause it to put out less volume ie not as loud.

decided to hack up the passenger side today and install the other gx328. if after both are in I cant stand it...well that will just be money thrown at an experiment.

will report back after complete.

 

[DarthYota]

Chiming in here. Thanks for making this thread [MENTION=248103]DarthYota[/MENTION].
So happy to see a thread with someone in EXACTLY the same predicament as I am. In my case the passenger side dash speaker is the blown unit in my '15 Limited. I am looking for as simple a replacement as possible for just the blown speaker if possible. I'd rather not spend close to a hundred dollars to replace a single cheap OEM speaker with another cheap OEM speaker. I'd also prefer not to go tearing into the doors to replace with a component setup. Forget about swapping the head unit and amp.
I have built my share of custom car audio systems and frankly, I was relatively satisfied with the sound produced by the JBL system in my truck. With decent quality music and proper tone controls the system can belt out pretty clear sound at a pretty loud volume.
All that said I have bought a couple of pairs of speakers to try out.
I bought these Red Wolf speaker harness adapters to make the install easier and they seem to work great, even though the 2015 LE is not listed in the description.
I have the Pioneer TS-A709 2 3/4" 2-ways that are rated at 4 ohm but measure 3.2 across the terminals. These drop right into the stock brackets plug and play. Unfortunately they are practically inaudible. Completely useless by anyone's standards.
I also have the Infinity 3032cfx. These are rated at 3 ohms but measure 2.4 across the terminals. These at least made a bit of sound, but nowhere near the level of the stock speaker.
Suffice to say I am not real happy with either choice.
I have JBL GX328s and GX302s on order arriving next week. After hearing your video, I might just go ahead and cancel them. They were not any louder than the Inifinitys.
[MENTION=248103]DarthYota[/MENTION] What did your GXs measure across the terminals?
I might try to find the 2-ohm 3032cf Infinitys you mentioned and give them a go in the event that they come in with an impedance lower than the cfx model I tried.

Glad I could help. I had the same problem. There was only one or two threads specific to LE JBL system. I was pretty satisfied with the stock JBL system too. I probably should have just bought a replacement stock but I like to tinker and frustrate myself. Even the stock JBL's seem cheap quality compared to the GX328.

The GX328 measured 2.3/4 initially and then settled in at 2.0/1 across the terms. Had to go buy a new voltmeter just for this...thank you

Wish I would have known those wire harnesses worked. I looked at them but couldn't find anything conclusive. Hacking up the stock's wasn't hard but now it means I have to buy 2 stock replacements if I decide to go back to them. Might buy the 3032cf's and give them a try just so I know.

 

[DarthYota]

oh and just to make sure it didn't change the audio composition I removed the speaker grille on the passenger side. I had a thought that maybe that area that everyone has to shave off might be focusing the sound more and directing it to bounce off a specific area of the windshield thereby causing it to appear to sound different. No change...Same results of gx328 vs stock with both grilles removed.