No, tweeters don`t have anything to do with Twitter or tweeting. They`re a type of car speaker designed to reproduce music elements of higher frequency. Thus, they can add either crispness to a foot-operated cymbal`s rhythmic beating or wispiness to a flute`s tweeter, depending on the music you`re playing. These tiny car tweeters for your car audio system aren`t actually fixtures on low- to mid-price-range cars unless they have upgraded sound systems. However, they are a standard in top-of-the-line brands.
Whether you`re looking to add tweeters to level up your car`s audio system or replacing old and worn-out units on a luxury vehicle`s stereo, consider these several factors in the selection process.
Choosing a Tweeter Set for Your Vehicle
Below are a few things to keep in mind when choosing speakers with “tweet-specific” functions.
Component or Coaxial?
More often than not, the budget will be the main consideration in your search for the ideal car stereo. Hence, that should lead to you considering whether to go full-range (coaxial) or component.
In terms of sound quality, it`s hard to beat component speakers, as they truly deliver crispness on all levels. That said, such benefits also come with high price tags some might not be willing to satisfy.
Coaxial or full-range speakers offer an easier and more affordable route. You can easily access aftermarket replacements of these speakers that are direct replacements from the original equipment manufacturer.
If sound quality takes priority over everything else, component speakers are the way to go. On the other hand, if your budget refuses to budge upwards, aim for a full-range system.
Coaxial speakers might not win for overall performance vs. a component stereo, but they won`t get overwhelmed in terms of sound, either. In addition, they are the safer bet for those looking to install their car stereos on their own.
Size and Configuration
A question to answer before going on the hunt for new speakers is: what type of speakers will I replace? Remove the speakers from their slot on your car and measure them. If that still doesn`t allow you to determine their type, have the shops tell you what size and configuration they are.
It`s imperative to determine the size and configuration of a set of speakers if you`re looking to replace them with the same kind. Though, if you`re going a different route, you should be able to drop those existing receptacles without further thought on this aspect.
Power
Focusing on the tweeter features of a car audio system does not exempt consideration of power. That`s because your new set should handle the power load of the existing amplifier or head unit. When this power handling quality is satisfied, your new stereo should be able to deliver the loudest sounds without distortion.
Determining the power handling ability of your speaker options means looking specifically at the RMS or Root Mean Square value. A common mistake is putting too much emphasis on the speakers` peak power handling. It focuses more on continuous power handling than the maximum power a unit can handle—the RMS` focal point.
If you`re also looking to replace your car`s head unit, consider the maximum power level of your existing alternator. You must also make sure the new unit does not exceed it.
Speaker Sensitivity
The kind of power needed to deliver a specific volume level is known as sensitivity. The higher this figure is for a set of speakers, the lower the power it needs to deliver across volume levels.
An example of a high-sensitivity speaker is an anemic factory stereo. That said, low-sensitivity speakers are still good choices for audio systems with high-powered amps.
Build Quality
Many factory-made speakers aren`t known for their quality materials; in fact, they`re known for substandard components that degrade quickly over time.
A speaker upgrade is the only solution for leveling up your ride`s sound system in most cases. That means replacing the low-quality with a high-end version that produces top-notch sounds.
With regard to the build quality, here are top points to consider:
- It should have durable rubber surrounds instead of foam, as these tend to last longer.
- Must have a polypropylene-mica combination for the woofer since they`re more durable and produce an excellent base sound.
- Ceramic, silk, metal, and polypropylene are used for the tweeter due to their audio and aesthetic benefits.
The How and Where of Tweeter Installation Matters
Now that you have the set you want, make sure it`s installed correctly. Most of the time, this means installing as close to ear level as you can.
A too-low or too-high position doesn`t bode well for delivering high-frequency sounds. You want to install these replacements close to the upper door panel`s front or in the dash. Preferably, tweeters should be flush-mounted, as this leaves no trace of the wires and results in the cleanest installation.
