Need confirmation on stock speaker replacement

[Auntie Soshul]

I’m enjoying the heck out of my new SR5. After driving a Jeep Grand Cherokee for 16 years, the 4Runner is luxurious, quiet, and I can tell it’s built of a higher quality by comparison, although the Jeeps never failed me. All that said, there is room for improvement, particularly with the audio system. Mine has the basic 8-speaker system. (I’m still looking for the cassette player in the 4Runner, though.)

I want to keep the stock head unit and not add an amp, but I want improved sound quality, so replacing the speakers is a first step, if not the only option. I understand the speakers need to be of low sensitivity (preferably 91 dB or above) and as low in impedance as possible to match the stock system. I’ve read nearly every thread on this forum that deals with the stock speakers. From what I understand, the front door speakers are 6x9 midwoofers, powered by wiring that has already passed through the dash speakers. The dash speakers are midrange, rather than tweeters. The rear door and hatch speakers are full range 6¾“ round speakers, and all speakers are 2-ohm.

Since the 32.9cf Infinity Kappas are no longer available, I’m thinking of going with Polk DXi350 in the dash, with no bass blockers. For the front doors, I’m leaning towards 6x9 Infinity Reference 9602ix. Although they’re coaxial, and the built-in tweeters wouldn’t be in use, they are of low sensitivity and are 3 ohms impedance. I figure they'll produce good bass. If I replace the rear door and hatch speakers, I’m thinking of Infinity Kappa 652.9i, which are 6¾” round, 3-ways.

I’ll probably put some vibration dampening material like Dynamat in the doors, but doubt I’ll use any sound deadening. All the material I’ve seen is stiff, thick, and seems like too much of a pain to install because every opening in the door panel is supposed to be closed up.

Does all this seem accurate and doable?

 

[Hellamatic]

Try a PM to [MENTION=13878]GrantK[/MENTION] - if I remember correctly, I think he did a pretty substantial audio upgrade a couple months ago.

 

[slugman2894]

Your best bet would probably be Polk MMs for the money. They're rated at 2ohms or close like 2.6 I think. Anything infinity is not going to be worth your time. Remember, you have a nice ride, it deserves nice sound.

 

[jrhaze]

Your best bet would probably be Polk MMs for the money. They're rated at 2ohms or close like 2.6 I think. Anything infinity is not going to be worth your time. Remember, you have a nice ride, it deserves nice sound.

Not sure where this is coming from but Polk is certainly not known as being "high end" in car audio. If anything it may be regarded on a similar level as Infinity although everyone has an opinion when it comes to car audio.

In the mid range world Infinity is perfectly fine IMO.

 

[thebwlife]

first- Your going to have to do a bit of front door mods no matter what size you pick 6-3/4 or 6x9. Fab yourself or Crutchfield or sonicelectronix offer a adaptor kit (should be the same as tacoma). Also probably a tiny bit of mod on the dash (no kit needed) - wiring adapters needed too - or cut your wiring your choice.

Right now you have some scissors, and your talking buying a chain saw to do what a pair of pruning sheers can do.

Polk are mid quailty speakers (and perfectly fine for your application) - but I wouldn't mix brands unless you absolutely have to. Also no reason to get component speakers with what your doing - it will just complicate your install and you'll really not see much benefit without a new head unit and amp.

Impedance and sesitiviy are way different - a 4 ohm speaker is most common. 91db is fine.

Here is what I would do:

Dash - Polk Audio db351 3-1/2" 2-way Speakers

Front door - Polk Audio db691 6" x 9" or use the DB651 for 91 impedance. Polk Audio db651 6-1/2"

rear door - Polk Audio db651 6-1/2"

Rear lift gate - Polk Audio db651 6-1/2"

The db series are really decent speakers and handle water, moisture, and vibrations really well. They are a favorite among boaters also. I've ordered a lot from sonic and they are good.

Good luck! Take pics and show us all how you did.

 

[JamesWhite]

I’m enjoying the heck out of my new SR5. After driving a Jeep Grand Cherokee for 16 years, the 4Runner is luxurious, quiet, and I can tell it’s built of a higher quality by comparison, although the Jeeps never failed me. All that said, there is room for improvement, particularly with the audio system. Mine has the basic 8-speaker system. (I’m still looking for the cassette player in the 4Runner, though.)

I want to keep the stock head unit and not add an amp, but I want improved sound quality, so replacing the speakers is a first step, if not the only option. I understand the speakers need to be of low sensitivity (preferably 91 dB or above) and as low in impedance as possible to match the stock system. I’ve read nearly every thread on this forum that deals with the stock speakers. From what I understand, the front door speakers are 6x9 midwoofers, powered by wiring that has already passed through the dash speakers. The dash speakers are midrange, rather than tweeters. The rear door and hatch speakers are full range 6¾“ round speakers, and all speakers are 2-ohm.

Since the 32.9cf Infinity Kappas are no longer available, I’m thinking of going with Polk DXi350 in the dash, with no bass blockers. For the front doors, I’m leaning towards 6x9 Infinity Reference 9602ix. Although they’re coaxial, and the built-in tweeters wouldn’t be in use, they are of low sensitivity and are 3 ohms impedance. I figure they'll produce good bass. If I replace the rear door and hatch speakers, I’m thinking of Infinity Kappa 652.9i, which are 6¾” round, 3-ways.

I’ll probably put some vibration dampening material like Dynamat in the doors, but doubt I’ll use any sound deadening. All the material I’ve seen is stiff, thick, and seems like too much of a pain to install because every opening in the door panel is supposed to be closed up.

Does all this seem accurate and doable?

Auntie,

I am in the middle of audio system upgrading. Here are some comments regarding the existing system and new speakers:

1. I uploaded the factory wiring diagram (no JBL, no Nav) which was found in this great forum from another member. It is very helpful.

2. From the wiring diagram you should realize that the front speakers are connected in parallel instead of in series. They are all full ranges but with bass blockers on dash speakers (no low end frequencies on dash). They are 4 ohm individually and combined as 2 ohm since they are in parallel.

3. Speakers in rear and hatch doors are in series. Rear door speakers will be bypassed when the “party mode” is engaged. Party mode also impacts the loudness of the front (for the limit of the HU total load?). I skipped rear doors since I will always put PM on.

4. For quick, cheap and instant result, you may go with 3.5” coaxials on dash. If you also want replace the front doors’, I would recommend components. The separate crossovers will distribute precise ranges to dash and doors and have much better sound image.

5. Like other members mentioned, no speakers will direct fit the factory mounts. You always need customized adaptors. You can either creatively crash the factory speakers, reused the mounts or make new adaptors. I made adaptors with MDF and believe they are the better option. It was so easy with a cheap jigsaw.

6. There are not many choices for good 6x9. You may use 6.5” since you need customized adaptors anyways.

7. It is not necessary to have 3 ways at back. I personally can not hear the difference between front components + stock at hatch and front components + new 2 way coaxial at hatch.

8. I have searched online a lot recently. Other than replacing speakers, adding amp, subwoofer and new HU will all have significant improvements. I have finished speakers with very satisfactory result. I ordered amp and sub. HU will be the last. I still shop around for different options.




Hope these can be helpful. I am thinking to have a complete write up after I have done amp and sub.

 

[harper7]

I’m enjoying the heck out of my new SR5. After driving a Jeep Grand Cherokee for 16 years, the 4Runner is luxurious, quiet, and I can tell it’s built of a higher quality by comparison, although the Jeeps never failed me. All that said, there is room for improvement, particularly with the audio system. Mine has the basic 8-speaker system. (I’m still looking for the cassette player in the 4Runner, though.)

I want to keep the stock head unit and not add an amp, but I want improved sound quality, so replacing the speakers is a first step, if not the only option. I understand the speakers need to be of low sensitivity (preferably 91 dB or above) and as low in impedance as possible to match the stock system. I’ve read nearly every thread on this forum that deals with the stock speakers. From what I understand, the front door speakers are 6x9 midwoofers, powered by wiring that has already passed through the dash speakers. The dash speakers are midrange, rather than tweeters. The rear door and hatch speakers are full range 6¾“ round speakers, and all speakers are 2-ohm.

Since the 32.9cf Infinity Kappas are no longer available, I’m thinking of going with Polk DXi350 in the dash, with no bass blockers. For the front doors, I’m leaning towards 6x9 Infinity Reference 9602ix. Although they’re coaxial, and the built-in tweeters wouldn’t be in use, they are of low sensitivity and are 3 ohms impedance. I figure they'll produce good bass. If I replace the rear door and hatch speakers, I’m thinking of Infinity Kappa 652.9i, which are 6¾” round, 3-ways.

I’ll probably put some vibration dampening material like Dynamat in the doors, but doubt I’ll use any sound deadening. All the material I’ve seen is stiff, thick, and seems like too much of a pain to install because every opening in the door panel is supposed to be closed up.

Does all this seem accurate and doable?

Not sure what's going on with the "discontinued" on the Infinity Kappa 32.9cf on many sellers websites,but I notice the price went up.I think the msrp used to be $99. Maybe so many people on here bought them as I know I love mine.lol
Here is Infinity's website and they list them......Car Audio - Infinity
Car Audio - Infinity

Here's the cheapest I found them online ......Infinity Kappa 32.9cf

 

[Victor_inox]

INfinitys is pure garbage- too bright, too much treble. I tried 39.2 in the dash and now they just laying on my shelf collecting dust.stock speakers sounds much more balanced and natural, unless of course you 60 and can't hear anything above 5KHz. remember stock head unit was tuned to stock speakers, replacing one component without another is a waste of time and money.
actually you can get very nice tang bang full range at partsexpress for dash speakers. Tang Band W3-1053SC 3" Full Range Driver 264-880
Infinitely better sounding then infinitys and cheaper too.

If you want more sound related info go to diymobileaudio site, few members there with 4runners and killer sound system.

 

[Auntie Soshul]

Thanks to all for their input.
[MENTION=8206]harper7[/MENTION] - Good fiind on the Infinitys! I wasn't able to find them online. I gave up too soon, I guess.
[MENTION=68024]JamesWhite[/MENTION] - Good info on the wiring. I understand now why the effective impedance of the dash speakers are 2 ohms.
[MENTION=45399]mutau052[/MENTION] - Thanks for the recommendations on the Polk speakers. I'll take pictures when I get around to installing, but it may be a while.
[MENTION=79490]Victor_inox[/MENTION] - You're saying a $15 pair of Tang Band dash speakers will sound better than the more expensive Infintys? I noticed the Tang Bands are 8 ohm and are not all that sensitive - not sure they'll work well with the stock system. I'm not looking for a killer system, just better. I have visited the DIYMA site many times and yes, I'm over 60. I've played drums in a rock band for over 45 years, so that may have reduced my ability to hear the higher frequencies a bit. If that's the case, I NEED more treble.

 

[diverscale]

INfinitys is pure garbage- too bright, too much treble. I tried 39.2 in the dash and now they just laying on my shelf collecting dust.stock speakers sounds much more balanced and natural, unless of course you 60 and can't hear anything above 5KHz. remember stock head unit was tuned to stock speakers, replacing one component without another is a waste of time and money.
actually you can get very nice tang bang full range at partsexpress for dash speakers. Tang Band W3-1053SC 3" Full Range Driver 264-880
Infinitely better sounding then infinitys and cheaper too.

If you want more sound related info go to diymobileaudio site, few members there with 4runners and killer sound system.

QFT. never had much gain by replacing speakers. Your stock head unit will also under-drive the aftermarket speakers which are made for much more wattage.

 

[5POINT56]

QFT. never had much gain by replacing speakers. Your stock head unit will also under-drive the aftermarket speakers which are made for much more wattage.

Is it not possible/practical to add amplification to supplement the head unit's power when adding better speakers?

 

[Hawaiian4runner]

INfinitys is pure garbage- too bright, too much treble. I tried 39.2 in the dash and now they just laying on my shelf collecting dust.stock speakers sounds much more balanced and natural, unless of course you 60 and can't hear anything above 5KHz. remember stock head unit was tuned to stock speakers, replacing one component without another is a waste of time and money.
actually you can get very nice tang bang full range at partsexpress for dash speakers. Tang Band W3-1053SC 3" Full Range Driver 264-880
Infinitely better sounding then infinitys and cheaper too.

If you want more sound related info go to diymobileaudio site, few members there with 4runners and killer sound system.

Are you on crack? That is on cheap ass POS. There's a reason it's $15 and even at that, it's a rip off. You sell that stuff? What are they 10 for $1

 

[Victor_inox]

Are you on crack? That is on cheap ass POS. There's a reason it's $15 and even at that, it's a rip off. You sell that stuff? What are they 10 for $1

You clearly have no clue what are you talking about. inexpensive doesn't mean POS. it does for some who buys brand name instead of quality product.
I don't sell TB or any other speakers for that matter but anyone who understand I thing or two about sound will tell you that kappas too bright and tangbang make a quality product. Others like yourself buying BOSE and too snobby to even consider anything off brand.

 

[Victor_inox]

Is it not possible/practical to add amplification to supplement the head unit's power when adding better speakers?

It is possible, you'll need a processor like JL clean sweep between stock HU and amplifier. That can get expensive but if you like sound quality that would be only way short of replacing head unit. I installed a few sound processors in modern Toyotas, stock head units is very capable and quality made,

Stock HU with JBL MS-8 will get you terrific sound quality but can get pricey.
JBL MS-8 Digital sound processor at Crutchfield.com

 

[Victor_inox]

Thanks to all for their input.
[MENTION=8206]harper7[/MENTION] - Good fiind on the Infinitys! I wasn't able to find them online. I gave up too soon, I guess.
[MENTION=68024]JamesWhite[/MENTION] - Good info on the wiring. I understand now why the effective impedance of the dash speakers are 2 ohms.
[MENTION=45399]mutau052[/MENTION] - Thanks for the recommendations on the Polk speakers. I'll take pictures when I get around to installing, but it may be a while.
[MENTION=79490]Victor_inox[/MENTION] - You're saying a $15 pair of Tang Band dash speakers will sound better than the more expensive Infintys? I noticed the Tang Bands are 8 ohm and are not all that sensitive - not sure they'll work well with the stock system. I'm not looking for a killer system, just better. I have visited the DIYMA site many times and yes, I'm over 60. I've played drums in a rock band for over 45 years, so that may have reduced my ability to hear the higher frequencies a bit. If that's the case, I NEED more treble.

You can test your hearing abilities to know for sure.
Yes Tang Band W3-881SI 3" Speaker 299-113 this $8 speaker sounds better then kappas.
read some reviews you don't have to believe me. do yourself a favor buy some at $8 a pop what do you have to lose? if you don't like them I'll give you my kappas for free, how about that? they collect dust in my garage anyway.
if you don't mind to spend a little more cash and keep stock HU buy these instead
Dayton Audio RS100-4 4" Reference Full-Range Driver 4 Ohm 295-378

 

[Randyman...]

FWIW - I did a mega audio upgrade on mine (click at your own risk ) - swapped everything and them some. (I'm a bit OCD with my audio!)

The first thing I did was swap the radio for an Alpine INA-W910. This radio's built-in amp driving the stock 6x9's and dash speakers sounded a good deal better than the factory (non-JBL) radio IMNSHO. No where near enough to satisfy me, but the improvement was not small by any means. Just keep that in mind before dropping $$$ on speakers you plan on running off the stock radio as the factory radio seems to be more of a limiting factor than the front speakers IMO. The stock speakers even use Neodymium magnets! Not saying they are great - but they can sound a lot better than they do off the stock radio...

 

[slugman2894]

Polka are actually far superior as well as marine grade certified. They also used to have a high end product but discontinued them due to lack of sales. The Polk SR could beat anything Inifnity would put out, I'm very surprised with how many people go for Infinity on this forum, seeing as its strictly entry level equipment.

 

[harper7]

Polka are actually far superior as well as marine grade certified. They also used to have a high end product but discontinued them due to lack of sales. The Polk SR could beat anything Inifnity would put out, I'm very surprised with how many people go for Infinity on this forum, seeing as its strictly entry level equipment.

Did you even read the OP's opening post???

I want to keep the stock head unit and not add an amp, but I want improved sound quality, so replacing the speakers is a first step, if not the only option. I understand the speakers need to be of low sensitivity (preferably 91 dB or above) and as low in impedance as possible to match the stock system.

Show me the Polk MM or SR series speakers that will fit in the stock dash speaker location and sound good driven with the stock amp in the HU? The OP never said they were building a high end stereo car audio system from scratch.

The Kappa's are mid grade speakers,not entry level that are practically a perfect fit in the stock front dash openings and the high sensitivity(92db) ,low impedance(2ohms) make them a perfect upgrade from the stock speakers with the stock HU IMO and as many others on here have attested to.

I have the stock JBL 650 watt amp with a Pioneer Z120BT HU ,Kappas in the dash,Polk DX mid woofers in the front doors and JL Audio C2 600's in the rear doors and tailgate,stock sub and it sounds pretty good to me for what it is....a mid grade car audio system that was easy to install with the stock amp and wiring and fairly cheap.

I'm done building high end car audio systems from scratch. I've put tons of money in high end car audio builds over the years and I'm sure somebody else is enjoying listening to them even today because I always ended up leaving them in the vehicle. Way too much of a pain to take them out as it was mostly custom work.

Now I put my money in home audio with a Onkyo NR 818 and Klipsch RF-7 II surround system to go with my PS3 and Panny Plasma. If I ever happen to move they are going with me. The acoustics of a vehicle and the imaging challenges will never match what can be achieved with a home theater anyways no matter how much money you put into it.

 

[slugman2894]

I'm sorry you don't feel the same way then.
Polk Audio MM6501 6-3/4" (Oversized 6-1/2") Mobile Monitor (MM)
These have a lower ohm impedance, and higher sensitivty, which means they'll be louder with less power, most likely because of their Neo magnets. For this kind of budget, you won't find better, and infinitys wont stand up to the weather (moisture) inside his doors like the MMs will. a five second search could show you what I'm saying is true, its been years since my shop has carried infinitys, and its because they kept breaking and wouldn't last. We've only had 5 sets of Polks come back in 7 years.

 

[harper7]

I'm sorry you don't feel the same way then.
Polk Audio MM6501 6-3/4" (Oversized 6-1/2") Mobile Monitor (MM)
These have a lower ohm impedance, and higher sensitivty, which means they'll be louder with less power, most likely because of their Neo magnets. For this kind of budget, you won't find better, and infinitys wont stand up to the weather (moisture) inside his doors like the MMs will. a five second search could show you what I'm saying is true, its been years since my shop has carried infinitys, and its because they kept breaking and wouldn't last. We've only had 5 sets of Polks come back in 7 years.

Those MM's are nice but how do you or did you wire them with the stuck HU and stock amp?
How would I make them work with the stock amp and in the stock locations?There are 5 different HU's that came with the 4Runners and the way the JBL's at least,and I think all of them, set up the front sound stage is to use 6x9 woofers in the doors with low pass filters built in the factory amp.The front doors are not getting the full signal just the lows.The 3 1/2" dash speakers have mid range and tweeter with a high pass filter in the amp for the JBL and I believe on the speaker for all other HU's and are just getting the mids and highs.That's the reason a high pass filter(bass blockers) has been needed for alot of people with non JBL aftermarket dash speakers.

From Toyota JBL Premium Audio for your 4RunnerTo ensure a realistic soundstage, the JBL Premium Sound System uses large woofers mounted in the front door panels. They deliver rich, deep bass while integrating their audio presentation with the coaxial speakers in the instrument panel.