10 Best Sounding Car Audio Speakers in 2026

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For drivers who want their music to sound as good on the road as it does at home, the Pioneer A-Series TS-A1671F 6.5″ 3-Way Coaxial Speakers deliver the best balance of wide frequency range, high sensitivity, and straightforward installation. For a budget-friendly upgrade that still sounds clear, the JVC CS-J620 is our Best Budget Pick. The Kenwood KFC-1666S earns the Best Easy Installation award for DIYers.

The real challenge in car audio isn’t just finding speakers that are loud enough, it’s finding ones that reproduce your music accurately at highway speeds, without distortion. You need a set that works with your car’s electrical system, fits in the factory location, and can handle the power your head unit or amplifier sends them.

This guide is built from manufacturer specifications, expert round-ups, and patterns in owner feedback to help you choose the right set for your vehicle and listening preferences. We cover the key specs that matter, sensitivity, power handling, and build materials, so you can shop with confidence.

Top 10 Sounding Car Audio Speakers in the Market

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The Best Sounding Car Audio Speakers, Reviewed

#1Best Overall

Pioneer A-Series TS-A1671F 6.5" 3-Way Coaxial Speakers

Pioneer A-Series TS-A1671F 6.5" 3-Way Coaxial Speakers
Power Handling320W max / 70W continuous
Frequency Response37 Hz, 31 kHz
Sensitivity91 dB
Design3-Way Coaxial
IncludedMulti-fit installation adapters
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What We Like

  • Broad frequency range (37 Hz to 31 kHz)
  • 91 dB sensitivity for clear, loud sound
  • 3-way design for balanced audio reproduction
  • Installation adapters included for easy fit

Trade-offs

  • Continuous power at 70W limits high-volume headroom
  • No external crossover for precise frequency tuning

A frequency response that stretches from 37 Hz to 31 kHz means these speakers can dig into deep bass notes while keeping treble crisp and airy. The 91 dB sensitivity rating also means they play loud and clear even with a factory radio, so you don’t need a separate amplifier to enjoy a noticeable upgrade. For someone looking to replace stock speakers with a balanced, full-range sound that works across rock, pop, or classical, the Pioneer A-Series TS-A1671F delivers a well-rounded performance.

The trade-off comes in power handling: at 70 watts continuous, these won’t satisfy listeners who crank the volume for extended periods at high-SPL levels. But for the vast majority of drivers wanting a straightforward, rewarding factory upgrade, especially with the included multi-fit adapters simplifying installation, the Pioneers offer a combination of range, efficiency, and clarity.

Best for: Drivers wanting a balanced, easy-to-install factory speaker upgrade with wide frequency coverage and strong sensitivity. Not ideal for high-SPL builds or listeners who need maximum continuous power handling.
#2Best Budget Pick

JVC CS-J620 6.5" 2-Way Coaxial Car Speakers

JVC CS-J620 6.5" 2-Way Coaxial Car Speakers
Power Handling300W Peak / 30W RMS
Frequency Response35Hz, 22kHz
Sensitivity92 dB
Impedance4 ohms
Mounting Depth1-23/32"
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What We Like

  • Mica cone woofer for clear mid-range
  • 1" PEI tweeter for detailed highs
  • 92 dB sensitivity for efficient output
  • Shallow mount depth simplifies installation

Trade-offs

  • 30W RMS limits high-volume headroom
  • Coaxial design lacks separate crossover adjustability

With a 92 dB sensitivity rating, these JVC speakers convert amplifier power into sound efficiently, so even modest head units can reach satisfying listening levels. The mica cone woofer and 1-inch PEI tweeter work together to deliver clear audio across the frequency range. The shallow 1-23/32-inch mounting depth also means they fit into tight door cavities without hitting window tracks or glass, which keeps installation straightforward.

With 30 watts RMS power handling, these speakers are built for moderate listening levels rather than sustained high-volume use. They work well for a straightforward OEM replacement that brings better audio clarity. If you need extreme output, a speaker with higher RMS capacity would be more appropriate.

Best for: Drivers looking for an easy OEM replacement with clear sound and simple installation. Not ideal for builds requiring very high volume levels or separate tweeter placement.
#3Best FlexFit Fit

Rockford Fosgate P1683 Punch 6×8 3-Way Coaxial Speakers

Rockford Fosgate P1683 Punch 6x8 3-Way Coaxial Speakers
Power Handling65W RMS / 130W Max
Speaker Type3-Way Coaxial
Cone MaterialMineral-filled polypropylene with butyl rubber surround
TweeterPEI dome with built-in crossover
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What We Like

  • FlexFit basket slots for easier alignment
  • Includes OEM adapter plate and mounting hardware
  • Butyl rubber surround for accurate frequency reproduction
  • Famous Rockford Fosgate build quality

Trade-offs

  • 65W RMS limits use with high-power amplifiers
  • Heavier than many 6.5-inch coaxial speakers at 4.9 pounds

The FlexFit basket design uses slots instead of single screw-sized holes. That lets you slide the speaker slightly to align with your vehicle’s mounting holes, a real time-saver in older cars or trucks where factory cutouts aren’t perfectly aligned. This pair includes an OEM adapter plate and all mounting hardware, so it’s a straightforward factory replacement for anyone who wants better sound without cutting or drilling. The injection-molded mineral-filled polypropylene cone with butyl rubber surround provides high output and accurate frequency reproduction, and the built-in crossover keeps the PEI dome tweeter from straining on low notes.

The trade-off is power handling: at 65 watts RMS, these speakers are better suited to a stock or modest aftermarket head unit than a high-output amplifier. But for a drop-in upgrade that fits like factory and sounds noticeably cleaner than typical entry-level coaxials, the P1683 delivers exactly what the FlexFit name promises.

Best for: Drivers looking for an easy, hassle-free factory replacement in 6×8 openings who prioritize installation convenience and clear, accurate sound over maximum power handling.
#4Best Easy Installation

Kenwood KFC-1666S 6.5" 2-Way Car Speakers

Kenwood KFC-1666S 6.5" 2-Way Car Speakers
Power Handling300W peak
Woofer MaterialPolypropylene
Tweeter Size/Type1" PEI balanced dome
Frequency Response40-22,000 Hz
Sensitivity90 dB
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What We Like

  • Grilles included for easy installation
  • Polypropylene woofer with treated cloth surround
  • 1" PEI balanced dome tweeter for clear highs
  • 300W peak power handling for louder playback

Trade-offs

  • 2-way design limits upper-frequency detail vs 3-way
  • 90 dB sensitivity requires an external amplifier with weak head units

With a peak power handling of up to 300 watts, these Kenwood speakers can play loud without distorting, which suits drivers who enjoy high volume. The included grilles simplify the swap, so you can replace factory speakers in an afternoon without hunting for extra parts. This set works well for anyone wanting a clear upgrade in clarity and bass response from a straightforward installation.

That means you might need a dedicated amplifier to really wake them up if your factory head unit is weak. Still, for the price-conscious buyer who values ease of setup and doesn’t mind adding a small amp later, these Kenwoods deliver a balanced, lively sound that punches above their class.

Best for: DIYers and first-time upgraders who want a clear sound improvement with minimal installation hassle. Not ideal for those seeking the highest possible detail from a 3-way design.
#5Best High-SPL Build

Pioneer P.R.O. Series TS-M651PRO 6.5" Component Speakers

Pioneer P.R.O. Series TS-M651PRO 6.5" Component Speakers
Power Handling (Max)500W
Power Handling (RMS)120W
Sensitivity94dB
Frequency Response50 Hz, 18 kHz
Cone MaterialLightweight Pulp
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What We Like

  • 94dB sensitivity for clear sound at low power
  • 500W max handling for high-SPL builds
  • Lightweight pulp cone reduces distortion

Trade-offs

  • Heavier than many coaxial speakers at 5.7 lbs
  • Component design requires more complex installation

A 94dB sensitivity rating means these speakers turn modest amplifier power into serious volume without distortion. That high efficiency, paired with a 500-watt peak handling and a lightweight pulp cone that keeps resonance low, makes them a natural fit for anyone building a system that needs to play loud and clean. The Pioneer P.R.O. Series is built for producing serious sound pressure levels, so these speakers are aimed at listeners who prioritize high output over everyday convenience. If you are after a speaker that can handle high power and deliver clear sound at high volumes, the specs back up the promise.

Weight and complexity are the main considerations here. At 5.7 pounds per pair, they are noticeably heavier than a typical coaxial like the Pioneer A-Series TS-A1671F, which weighs only 1.5 pounds. That extra mass comes from the beefier motor and basket needed to handle the power, but it also means you will need solid mounting and careful installation. The component design requires more planning than a simple coaxial swap, so this is not a drop-in replacement for a quick afternoon project. If you are ready to commit to a proper build, the performance is there.

Best for: Enthusiasts building a high-SPL system who prioritize loud, clean output. Not ideal for those wanting a simple factory speaker swap.
#6Best Adjustable Soundstage

JBL GTO629 Premium 6.5" Co-Axial Speakers

JBL GTO629 Premium 6.5" Co-Axial Speakers
Speaker Size6.5 inches
Tweeter TypePatented UniPivot
Cone MaterialCarbon-injected Plus One
Crossover12dB/octave dedicated components
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What We Like

  • Aimable UniPivot tweeter for lifelike sound
  • Carbon-injected cone moves more air for deeper bass
  • Three-ohm design maximizes power from factory wiring
  • Dual-level tweeter volume adjusts to taste

Trade-offs

  • Larger cone and tweeter pivot add installation depth
  • Three-ohm impedance limits amplifier compatibility.

A patented UniPivot tweeter that you can physically aim toward your ears is the standout feature here. Even when the speakers sit low in your door panels, you can direct the highs right where you need them, creating a much more lifelike soundstage. The carbon-injected Plus One cone is larger than typical 6.5-inch drivers, so it pushes more air and delivers noticeably fuller bass. Add a dual-level tweeter volume adjustment, and you can fine-tune the balance to match both your car’s acoustics and your personal taste.

The three-ohm impedance helps draw every watt from factory stereo wiring, making these speakers a strong match for stock radio upgrades. If you plan to pair them with an aftermarket amplifier, check compatibility with your amp’s rated load. Compared to the Pioneer A-Series TS-A1671F, the JBL’s aimable UniPivot tweeter gives you more control over where the sound lands. If you want to shape your listening experience without adding separate components, this is the set to consider.

Best for: Drivers who want to aim and adjust their car audio for a lifelike soundstage without adding separate components. Not ideal for those pairing speakers with a high-power aftermarket amplifier expecting standard four-ohm loads.

Product photos

#7Best 4-Way Full Range

Rockford Fosgate P1694 Punch 6×9 4-Way Coaxial Speakers

Rockford Fosgate P1694 Punch 6x9 4-Way Coaxial Speakers
Speaker Size6×9 inches
Configuration4-Way Coaxial
Power Handling75W RMS / 150W Max
Cone MaterialInjection molded mineral filled polypropylene
Surround MaterialButyl rubber
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What We Like

  • 4-way design for wide frequency range
  • PEI dome tweeter with built-in crossover
  • FlexFit basket for easier OEM alignment
  • Includes grilles and mounting hardware

Trade-offs

  • Larger 6×9 size limits fit to specific openings
  • At 8.3 pounds per pair, heavier than typical 6.5-inch speakers

A 4-way full-range design with a dedicated PEI dome tweeter and built-in crossover means these 6×9 speakers handle highs, mids, and lows separately for cleaner sound separation than simpler two- or three-way coaxials. The injection molded mineral filled polypropylene cone and butyl rubber surround work together to keep bass punchy and accurate without distortion, even at higher volumes. That makes them a strong match for anyone wanting a noticeable upgrade from factory speakers without adding separate amplifiers or components.

The trade-off comes down to size and weight. At 8.3 pounds per pair, these are heavier than many 6.5-inch speakers listed in the guide, and the 6×9 footprint means they won’t fit standard round openings without an adapter or cutting. The included FlexFit basket and OEM adapter plate help with alignment, but you’re still committing to a larger speaker that needs the right space. For drivers who have the room, the full-range coverage and build quality deliver a richer, more balanced sound than smaller coaxials can manage.

Best for: Drivers with 6×9 speaker openings who want a full-range factory replacement with clear treble and solid bass, without adding extra components. Not ideal for vehicles with only 6.5-inch round cutouts or for those prioritizing light weight.

Product photos

#8Best Silk Dome Clarity

Skar Audio TX65 6.5" 2-Way Elite Coaxial Speakers

Skar Audio TX65 6.5" 2-Way Elite Coaxial Speakers
Speaker Size6.5"
Peak Power200 Watts (Pair)
RMS Power100 Watts (Pair)
Tweeter1" Silk Dome
Sensitivity89 dB
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What We Like

  • Silk dome tweeter for smooth highs
  • 100W RMS per pair handles moderate power
  • TPE surround for durable cone movement
  • Ferrite magnet provides strong magnetic field

Trade-offs

  • Only 2-way design limits midrange separation
  • Heavier than many 6.5" coaxial speakers

A 1-inch silk dome tweeter is the defining feature here, delivering clear and natural high frequencies without the harshness that some metal-dome designs can introduce. That makes the Skar Audio TX65 an excellent choice if you listen to vocals, acoustic music, or anything where treble clarity matters more than raw volume. With 100 watts RMS per pair and a 45 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response, it covers the full audible range well for a coaxial speaker. The TPE surround helps the woofer move freely for cleaner bass. This is a speaker that rewards attention to detail in your music.

The 89 dB sensitivity rating is on the lower side, so you will likely want a dedicated amplifier rather than relying on a factory head unit to get the best performance. Compared to the Pioneer A-Series TS-A1671F, which includes a third driver for dedicated midrange, the TX65 sticks to a simpler two-way layout that puts more responsibility on the woofer to handle both bass and mids. If you are building a system with a separate amp and value smooth, refined treble over multi-driver complexity, this Skar Audio pair delivers exactly that.

Best for: Listeners who want smooth, detailed treble from a silk dome tweeter and plan to pair the speakers with an external amplifier. Not ideal for those relying on low-power factory head units or wanting a three-way design for dedicated midrange output.

Product photos

#9Best Component Upgrade

Orion Cobalt CB65C 6.5" 2-Way Component Speakers

Orion Cobalt CB65C 6.5" 2-Way Component Speakers
Type2-Way Component
Peak Power280W
RMS Power70W
Frequency Response70Hz-20kHz
Sensitivity88 dB
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What We Like

  • Silk dome tweeters for smooth highs
  • Butyl rubber surround for durability
  • External passive crossovers included
  • Flexible tweeter mounting options

Trade-offs

  • Component setup requires separate installation of tweeters
  • RMS power rating is modest for high-volume listening

The Orion Cobalt CB65C is a component speaker system, meaning the tweeter mounts separately from the woofer for better placement flexibility. The 1-inch silk dome tweeter can be surface-mounted or flush-mounted, so you can aim the highs for a more open sound. With 70W RMS power handling and 88 dB sensitivity, these speakers work well with a modest amp, giving you a clear upgrade from basic factory audio without needing a high-power system.

Component speakers like this one take more effort to install than a simple coaxial set. You have to mount the tweeter and connect the external crossover, which adds time versus dropping in a single speaker unit. But the payoff is that the separate tweeter and woofer, with a polypropylene cone and butyl rubber surround, can produce a cleaner, more balanced sound when placed carefully. It’s a good project for someone who enjoys fine-tuning their car audio.

Best for: Drivers who want a component speaker system for flexible tweeter placement and cleaner sound. Not ideal for those who want a quick, simple drop-in speaker replacement.

Product photos

#10Best Silk Dome Component Clarity

RECOIL REM65 Echo Series 6.5" Component Speakers

RECOIL REM65 Echo Series 6.5" Component Speakers
TypeComponent Speaker System
Size6.5"
Peak Power200 Watts (Pair)
RMS Power100 Watts (Pair)
Tweeter MaterialSilk Soft-Dome
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What We Like

  • Silk soft-dome tweeters for smooth highs
  • Triple-level tweeter volume adjustment
  • Butyl rubber surrounds for durable mid-bass
  • Flexible flush or surface tweeter mounting

Trade-offs

  • Component design requires separate crossover installation
  • 100W RMS limits use with high-power amplifiers

The silk soft-dome tweeters use oversized voice coils for greater heat dissipation and higher power handling, which helps produce smooth, fatigue-free highs. The triple-level tweeter volume adjustment lets you fine-tune the output to fit your car’s acoustics or your personal preference. Lightweight polypropylene cones enable faster midrange response, while butyl rubber surrounds provide durability and deeper mid-bass impact.

These are component speakers, meaning you’ll need to mount the tweeters separately and install the external crossover, which adds installation time compared to a simple coaxial swap. If you prefer a drop-in upgrade without extra wiring work, the coaxial Pioneer A-Series TS-A1671F offers a simpler path. But for anyone willing to invest a bit more effort, the RECOIL REM65 offers tweeter adjustability that coaxial speakers typically lack.

Best for: Listeners who want adjustable tweeter output and are comfortable with component speaker installation. Not ideal for those seeking a quick, no-fuss factory replacement.

Product photos

How We Evaluated Sounding Car Audio Speakers

Our evaluation is research-based, focusing on the specifications and design features that determine real-world sound quality. We analyzed manufacturer datasheets, expert audio reviews, and common owner experiences to understand how each speaker performs in different vehicles and setups.

The most important criteria were sensitivity (how efficiently the speaker converts power into volume), power handling (RMS and peak), and frequency response range. A speaker with high sensitivity, like 91 dB or above, will sound louder and clearer with a factory head unit. We also prioritized build quality, materials like butyl rubber surrounds, silk or PEI tweeters, and stiff cones that reduce distortion at high volumes.

We cross-referenced expert opinions with owner feedback to identify which speakers deliver consistent sound quality and reliable fitment. This approach helps us separate marketing claims from the actual listening experience drivers report.

What To Look For In Sounding Car Audio Speakers

Choosing the right car speakers starts with understanding a few key specs that affect how they’ll sound in your specific car. Here’s what to focus on.

Focus on sensitivity for volume (aim for 90 dB or higher), RMS power handling to match your amp, and frequency response for the range of sound you want. Build materials like silk tweeters and rubber surrounds often mean better durability and smoother sound.

Sensitivity and Power Handling

Sensitivity, measured in decibels (dB), tells you how efficiently a speaker turns power into volume. A speaker rated at 91 dB will play significantly louder than one rated at a lower sensitivity with the same amplifier. For factory head units, look for 90 dB or higher to get clear sound without adding an external amp.

RMS power handling is the continuous power a speaker can handle without damage. Match this to your amplifier’s output, if you have a 50W per channel amp, don’t buy speakers rated for 30W RMS if you plan to push them hard. Peak power is less useful; focus on RMS for real-world performance.

Tweeter Type and Crossover Design

The tweeter determines high-frequency detail. Silk dome tweeters (found on the Skar Audio TX65 and Orion Cobalt CB65C) produce smooth, non-fatiguing highs, while PEI and titanium domes (like on the JVC CS-J620) offer brighter, more detailed treble. Component speakers with separate tweeters and external crossovers (like the Pioneer P.R.O. Series TS-M651PRO) allow you to place tweeters for a better soundstage, but require more installation work.

Coaxial speakers combine woofer and tweeter in one unit, making them easier to install. Some, like the JBL GTO629, offer aimable tweeters to adjust the soundstage without going full component.

Build Materials and Fitment

Woofer cone material affects bass response and durability. Polypropylene and mica cones (Kenwood KFC-1666S, JVC CS-J620) are lightweight and resist moisture, while carbon-injected cones (JBL GTO629) move more air for deeper bass. Butyl rubber surrounds last longer than foam and reduce distortion.

  • Measure your factory speaker opening (6.5-inch, 6×9, or 5×7) before buying.
  • Check mounting depth against your door panel clearance, shallow speakers like the JVC CS-J620 fit more vehicles.
  • Look for included grilles and adapter plates if you want a clean, easy install.
  • Verify the speaker impedance (usually 4 ohms) matches your amplifier or head unit.

A good rule of thumb: for a simple upgrade with a factory radio, prioritize high sensitivity (91 dB+) and a shallow mounting depth. For a full system with an amp, focus on RMS power handling and a component design.

Sounding Car Audio Speakers Compared

The table below compares all ten picks across the specs that matter most for sound quality and easy installation.

ProductTypePower HandlingSensitivity
Pioneer A-Series TS-A1671F 6.5" 3-Way Coaxial Speakers3-Way Coaxial320W max / 70W continuous91 dB
JVC CS-J620 6.5" 2-Way Coaxial Car Speakers2-Way Coaxial300W Peak / 30W RMS92 dB
Rockford Fosgate P1683 Punch 6×8 3-Way Coaxial Speakers3-Way Coaxial65W RMS / 130W MaxN/A
Kenwood KFC-1666S 6.5" 2-Way Car Speakers2-Way300W peak90 dB
Pioneer P.R.O. Series TS-M651PRO 6.5" Component SpeakersComponent500W / 120W94dB
JBL GTO629 Premium 6.5" Co-Axial SpeakersCo-AxialN/AN/A
Rockford Fosgate P1694 Punch 6×9 4-Way Coaxial Speakers4-Way Coaxial75W RMS / 150W MaxN/A
Skar Audio TX65 6.5" 2-Way Elite Coaxial Speakers2-Way Elite Coaxial200 Watts (Pair) / 100 Watts (Pair)89 dB
Orion Cobalt CB65C 6.5" 2-Way Component Speakers2-Way Component280W / 70W88 dB
RECOIL REM65 Echo Series 6.5" Component SpeakersComponent200 Watts (Pair) / 100 Watts (Pair)N/A

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most important spec for car speaker sound quality?

Sensitivity, measured in decibels (dB), is the most critical spec for getting clear, loud sound from a factory head unit. A speaker rated at 91 dB or higher will sound noticeably louder and cleaner than one with a lower sensitivity rating with the same power.

Can I install car speakers myself?

Yes, many coaxial speakers are designed for easy DIY installation. Look for models that include grilles, mounting hardware, and adapter plates, like the Kenwood KFC-1666S or Rockford Fosgate P1683. Basic wiring and screwdriver skills are usually enough.

Should I get coaxial or component speakers?

Coaxial speakers are a simple drop-in replacement and are best for most drivers. Component speakers offer better soundstage and clarity because the tweeter and woofer are separate, but they require more complex installation. Choose components if you are building a high-SPL system or want to place tweeters on the dashboard or pillars.

What size speakers fit my car?

Check your vehicle’s factory speaker size, which is usually 6.5 inches, 6×9 inches, or 5×7 inches. Many aftermarket speakers come with adapter plates or flexible mounting baskets, like the Rockford Fosgate P1683 with its FlexFit design, to fit multiple openings.

Do I need an amplifier for new car speakers?

Not necessarily. If you choose speakers with high sensitivity (91 dB or more), like the Pioneer A-Series or JVC CS-J620, they will sound clear and loud with a factory radio. However, an amplifier unlocks the full potential of most speakers, especially those with lower sensitivity or higher RMS power ratings.

The Bottom Line

For most drivers, the Pioneer A-Series TS-A1671F is the best overall choice. It combines a wide 37 Hz to 31 kHz frequency range with 91 dB sensitivity for clear, loud playback, and includes installation adapters for an easy factory upgrade. It’s the one-stop recommendation for anyone who wants noticeably better sound without adding an amplifier.

If your budget is tight, the JVC CS-J620 delivers clear mid-range and detailed highs at a very accessible price point, with a shallow mount depth that fits nearly any car. For DIYers who want the simplest possible install, the Kenwood KFC-1666S comes with grilles and a polypropylene woofer that improves sound right out of the box.

The single most important factor in choosing car speakers is matching the sensitivity and power handling to your vehicle’s audio system. Do that, and you’ll get the best sound your setup can deliver.