Navigate the Waves with Style: What You Should Know about Marine Speakers
The sound of the waves breaking against the side of your boat is the perfect soundtrack on a sunny day out on the water. But if you like to make it a real party, consider adding some marine speakers. If you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered.
We’ll provide an overview of what you should know about marine speakers and how to navigate the water with style. From what type of speakers to get to installation and beyond, this blog post covers all the marine speakers' basics.
What Are Marine Speakers and Why Do You Need Them?
Marine speakers are a must-have for music lovers who spend time on the water. These specialized speakers are designed for wet environments and offer excellent sound quality regardless of how choppy the waters may be.
Marine speakers are generally composed of heavy-duty materials built to withstand harsh outdoors conditions. This prevents damage to the speaker, ultimately providing more reliable sound that doesn't break down over time. Additionally, the enhanced sound quality ensures that your music will sound great as you're enjoying time on the water.
Who Makes the Best Marine Speakers?
When it comes to marine speakers, there is quite a selection of brands to choose from. Skar, Kenwood, Rockford Fosgate, JENSEN, Pyle, Infinity, and Kicker all make excellent marine speakers. For Bluetooth speakers, Boss has some great options. So, it all depends on your preference as to which one would offer the best sound for your setup.
What is the Best Size for Marine Speakers?
When choosing the best size for marine speakers, the general standard is 6.5 inches. However, this is not to say that you should automatically discount other sizes.
For example, this Boss Audio 5.25" MR52W Speaker is a wonderful option. This size can still provide excellent sound quality, so it is worth looking into.
At the end of the day, the speaker size is ultimately up to your marine vessel size and the type of sound you’re looking to get.
How Many Speakers Should I Put On My Boat?
That really depends on the size and layout of your boat. Generally speaking, it's best to have two speakers. That way, you can cover both sides of the vessel and maximize sound coverage. However, if your boat is large enough, consider adding more. For example, add one or two more speakers to ensure proper sound distribution if you have a large cabin.
How Much Does the Best Marine Speaker Cost?
The costs of the best marine speakers range considerably, depending on size and brand. You can find some perfect speakers at the lower end of the spectrum for around $25 to $40, often sold in discounted offers. For standard models, you'd likely be looking at a price of between $60 and $80. For the higher-end speakers, you can expect to spend around $120 to $200.
What to Look For in Marine Speakers
While many types and models of marine speakers are available on the market, not all may suit your needs. By understanding the critical features of marine speakers, you can ensure you make the right purchase for your boat. Here are the features to look for in the best marine speakers:
Design
One of the most critical aspects of marine speakers is their overall design. This includes the box and intricate elements like the color of the grilles. The speaker should match the look of your boat and its interior. Additionally, it would help if you looked for weather-resistant speakers that can withstand the open sea's harsh conditions.
Power Output
Your power output needs vary depending on the size of your boat and the type of music you will use the speakers for. If your boat is small, you can invest in low-powered speakers of around 60W. If you have a medium-sized boat, opt for something in the range of 120W. For larger vessels, you may need something closer to 600W.
Waterproof
When looking for marine speakers, you must make sure the speakers are waterproof. It would be best if you looked for speakers with an IP rating of at least 65, ensuring the speakers are suitable for marine use. Additionally, you should check the product details to ensure it is salt-air corrosion-resistant and tough enough to withstand tough environmental conditions.
Durability
Durability is a crucial factor when it comes to marine speakers. You need your speakers to withstand extreme weather conditions and vibrations, no matter where on the vessel they are located. Stronger materials like aluminum and toughened plastics that won’t be affected by rust or marine growth are ideal. It is also crucial that the speakers have UV-resistant characteristics, as this will protect them from discoloring or warping from extended amounts of exposure to the sun.
Additional Features
Speakers with additional features can offer plenty of benefits for a marine vessel. Some popular features include multicolor LED lighted speakers and Bluetooth technology for effortless audio streaming.
How to Install Marine Speakers
Whether installing new components or replacing existing speakers, knowing the procedure for correctly setting up marine speakers is vital.
Components for Installing Marine Speakers
Before you begin, it's crucial to have the right materials. That includes the marine speakers, mounting hardware, mounting brackets, wiring, and the tools needed, such as wire strippers, drill, and screws. You can purchase these items at any auto parts or marine store.
Where to Install Marine Speakers
When considering where to install the speakers, look for convenient locations that don’t obstruct visibility or interfere with your boat. Different options for speaker mounts include the walls, deck, or floor. Additionally, remember that the subwoofer may need to be installed in an external area, like the stern or in an out-of-the-way spot.
Method:
Once you've obtained all the necessary components, follow these steps for installing marine speakers:
- Determine Speaker Placement – Determine where you want to install the speakers by considering different factors like visibility and distance from the listener.
- Connect the Wires – Start by connecting the wires from the speaker to the amplifier. Make sure they are properly secured.
- Mount the Speakers - Install the mounting brackets or hardware in the desired location. Then secure the speakers to the brackets.
- Test the Speakers – Once the speakers are mounted, test them to ensure they work properly.
- Adjust the Volume and Position – Adjust the volume and reposition the speakers as needed.
How to Care for Marine Speakers
Caring for your marine speakers can be essential to protecting your investment and will help ensure they last a long time. With proper care and maintenance, you can ensure you get the most out of your marine speakers, both in terms of the overall sound and performance.
Clean Regularly
The first step to properly caring for marine speakers is to clean them regularly with a damp cloth. Make sure to gently wipe away any dirt, salt, or dust from the speaker grille and overall cabinet. Try to avoid getting any moisture seeping into the actual speaker itself, as this could cause permanent damage. Use a mild soap and water solution, but avoid harsh abrasives or detergents.
Check for Damage
It's also important to regularly check for any potential damage to the speaker. Look for any torn grille cloth, loose wiring, disconnected parts, or rust on the overall unit. If these symptoms are present, contact a professional to repair the damage.
Use a Protective Cover
When not in use, it’s a good idea to keep your marine speakers covered with a protective cover to prevent dust and dirt from getting inside the system. This will also help to keep out moisture and protect the speakers against the elements.
FAQs
How can I make my marine speakers louder?
One idea to make your marine speakers louder is by powering them with an external amp. This will provide increased wattage to your speakers and create more volume.
Additionally, you could reposition the speakers for maximum sound exposure. Ensure the speakers are not obstructed and the sound can travel clearly.
Consider acoustic treatments to reduce the amount of reverberation and allow the sound to travel further. Lastly, adjust the EQ controls to emphasize the mid-high frequencies, which help to increase clarity and make the sound louder.
What is the best 6.5'' marine speaker?
If you're looking for the best 6.5'' marine speakers, you should check out JBL 6.5'' marine speakers. They are the preferred choice among experienced boat owners and will give you exceptional sound quality and performance. You could also consider speakers from Jensen and Boss for a slightly lower-cost option. I'd recommend this Jensen 6.5" MSX65R Speaker, which comes with a white/silver grille and 75W of power, for just $94.95.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, marine speakers offer a unique and superior sound quality while enduring the sea conditions. Not all marine speakers are created equal, so it’s essential to know the size, quality, cost and installation process before making a purchase. In the end, the right set of marine speakers can make all the difference between a smooth and enjoyable day on the water or a stressful and unpleasant one. With the right marine speakers on your side, you can navigate the waves with style and ease.
