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10 Best Marine Speakers in 2023

High-Quality Speakers to Rock Your Boat

Best Marine Speakers

Whether you’re out in the water for a day of fishing or to unwind, nothing can beat the experience of good music alongside. Therefore, it becomes a top priority to select marine speakers that should withstand this environment’s unique conditions and provide you with excellent sound over crashing waves and whirling winds. They will quickly degrade and disappoint you if they are not according to marine specifications.

Here, we come to rescue you. We’ve got all the information you need to get the best sound possible while entertaining or relaxing on your boat. This guide will highlight the fundamentals you should understand before purchasing new marine speakers for your boat audio system and walk you through the options.

Roundup of the Best Marine Speakers

Overall Best Marine SpeakersInfinity INF622MLT Two-Way Multi-Element RGB Titanium Marine Speaker
Most Easy to Install Marine SpeakersPyle Low-Profile Waterproof Marine Speakers PLMRS63WL.5
Best Budget Marine SpeakersBOSS Audio Systems MR6W
Most Durable Marine SpeakersJBL MS6510 
Best Marine Speakers for the MoneyKenwood KFC-1653MRW
Best Marine Tower SpeakerBOSS Audio Systems MRWT69RGB Marine Waketower Speaker System
Best Waterproof Marine SpeakersJBL MS9520
Best Sounding Marine SpeakersSkar Audio SK65MB
Best High-End Marine SpeakersKicker 45KM84L
Marine Speakers With Best BassPioneer TS-MR2040

What Should You Look For When Buying a Marine Speaker?

When you look for the best product, you may become confused due to the vast array of options available for marine applications. However, it is tough to make sound decisions in such circumstances. To help you out, we’ve compiled a list of some key features to consider when shopping for the best marine speakers to address this issue.

Ensure to Install the Right Type and Size

Changing factory-installed speakers with new marine speakers can be tricky because there are no standard sizes. The diameter of the speaker’s cone, not the speaker as a whole, is referred to as the speaker’s 6.5-inch size by manufacturers.

The manufacturer does not specify the installation size because the speaker’s grille could be nearly an inch larger in diameter. In addition, the installation size varies, even though they all have the same cone size. Therefore, it would be best to take precise measurements before choosing the best fit.

It would be best to consider whether flush-mount or box speakers are better suited to your boat. Flush mount speakers may look nice, but they require an excellent mounting level. There must also be enough space behind the speaker to accommodate the magnet and cone and enclosed airspace to improve resonance. On the other hand, Box speakers take up more space but are easier to install.

Understanding your size restriction will significantly narrow your options, allowing you to move on to the next factor in making your final decision.

Learn Their Ability to Handle Power

If you don’t want to damage your speakers, make sure they can handle the same or more power than your amplifier provides. To clarify, the wattage mentioned by most manufacturers is the peak or maximum wattage to entice the customers, as it is typically more than RMS.

RMS power handling value indicates how much continuous power a speaker can handle, generally per channel.

If the receiver has a power output of 100 watts RMS per channel, you would be able to connect your speakers, which would each have a power output of 100 watts RMS. Additionally, audiophiles claim that the peak power rating does not affect the sound.

Explore the Types of Marine Speakers

Types of marine speakers

We have discussed two different types of marine speakers, each of which is well suited to a completely different installation scenario.

Tower speakers are a little more powerful and can be easily attached to a boat’s wake tower. Because the conical speakers are generally oriented aft, you may blast your favorite music in the direction of someone boarding or skiing behind your boat.

Recessed speakers must be installed on the boat’s dashboard or in a panel, ceiling, or wall. These speakers require a cut-out that is appropriate for the size of your speaker.

Box-shaped tower speakers are also available, which you can easily install in various directions depending on where you intend to listen to your preferred music.

Check That The Speakers Have All Of The Important Features

Because size and power are nearly always the same, the speaker’s features are critical. So we’ll focus on just a few of the most important aspects of high-quality marine speakers here.

Weatherproof Capabilities

All marine stereos may appear water-resistant, but this is a misconception. In contrast, all marine stereos have circuit boards coated with UV-resistant material to prevent corrosion in a wet atmosphere. Aside from that, only a select few are impervious to rain and other forms of water. Furthermore, double-check the specifications if you’re concerned that your audio can withstand the moisture. For example, consider that a stereo is only partially waterproof if the sealing is only on the faceplate but not on the chassis. So, this could be a problem if water gets under your dash.

Connectivity Factor

First, you need to know what you can and cannot connect to your stereo. Most marine stereos have an aux audio input with a 3.5 mm input connector. A USB port is available on many models, allowing users to connect and operate portable devices like MP3 players and smartphones. On the other hand, some call for the use of specialized software. Before buying a stereo, check the specifications to ensure it will work with your devices.

Durability

Marine speakers are typically very durable and long-lasting devices. Check that the speakers you are buying have a rugged build, and are high-quality, rust- and corrosion-resistant. Look for speakers with plastic cones for good weather protection, such as polypropylene and neoprene rubber surrounds.

Total Number of Drivers

Various drivers are available, including coaxial two-way, triaxial three-way, and dual cone models.

Coaxial or 2-way speakers have an individual tweeter inside a woofer to handle high frequencies and an efficiently good range of audio.

Midrange drivers are added to triaxial or three-way speakers to cut the tweeter and woofer for a more crisp and full sound.

Using a small Whizzer and high-frequency cone in the middle of the woofer, dual cone marine speakers are a less expensive alternative.

Interference and Magnet Defense

Different magnets of motors, wires of speakers, and shielded cables may cause interference with the magnet compasses. The best speakers almost seem to know it and have a shielding.

Amplifier

In the case of a subwoofer, you would need a separate power amplifier to power it. For example, if you add an amplifier to your best speaker, you’ll get good sound quality, volume, and power.

Great Sound Quality

Even though this goes without saying, ensure the marine speakers you’re planning to buy have excellent sound quality. You can use the best songs for testing speakers to test out the marine speakers and adjust their sound.

You know what you need to keep in mind before shopping for marine speakers for your boat. Please read about the top 10 options we have selected for you.

Top 10 Marine Speakers for Your Boat

We’ve compiled a list of the top 10 best marine speakers and their specifications to assist you in making an informed decision. We have tested all of these products for their sound and durability and how well they perform overall.

1. Infinity INF622MLT Two-Way Multi-Element RGB Titanium Marine Speakers

Overall Best Marine Speakers

  • Great sound quality
  • Affordable price
  • Attractive LED lights
  • Simplicity in operation and mounting
  • Excellent build quality
  • Simplistic yet beautiful design
  • Top-end sound quality can suffer at a loud volume or when windy
  • Average bass response

The Infinity Reference 6-1/2″ speakers are marine-rated, and you can install them on any vessel to deliver high-quality sound and excellent lighting. We were amazed that these rugged outdoor speakers could handle up to 75 watts of RMS, withstand wind and engine noise, and give us crystal clear sound while we were on the water.

With Infinity Reference speakers, you’re getting the best sound possible out of the box. Furthermore, these speakers also come with RGB LED lights that will give your boat a stylish look. Marine speakers have a tough life with the sun, spray, salt, extreme temperatures, and the occasional stray fish on the deck.

These Infinity speakers are built to last with one-piece polymer baskets, marine-ready componentry, and UV-resistant grilles that will withstand spray and punishing sunlight for years to come, so you don’t need to replace them quickly. The polypropylene cone and balanced dome tweeter provide:

  • Excellent low-frequency response
  • Silky highs
  • Plenty of output, like a live music show going on

In conclusion, if you are the one who is looking for incredible sound quality and sturdy weather-resistant speakers for the marine environment and some lights to make the atmosphere come alive, go for Infinity INF622MLT. It will more than live up to your expectations.

View on Amazon: Infinity INF622MLT Two-Way Multi-Element RGB Titanium Marine Speaker

2. Pyle Low-Profile Waterproof Marine Speakers PLMRS63WL.5

Most Easy to Install Marine Speakers

  • Straightforward mounting
  • Rugged design
  • 90 dB sensitivity
  • 240 Watts peak power
  • Low profile design
  • No tweeter built-in
  • 6.5″ size may not be a perfect fit for everyone

Pyle speakers are an excellent choice if you’re looking for something with a little bit of everything. This incredibly designed pair of speakers uses a high-quality polypropylene cone surrounded by butyl rubber, protecting the speaker from water and making it durable and long-lasting.

Furthermore, with a peak power handling capacity of 240 watts, this marine speaker delivers a resoundingly good sounding experience, enthralling us. These speakers can withstand all kinds of weather changes and still perform admirably, making them weather-resistant. Moreover, it has all the features that allow it to last longer than other marine speakers.

Aside from that, its white speaker grilles give your boat a stylish appearance. Along with style, it has super fantastic sound quality, which will make your boat party crazy and a lot more enjoyable.

In conclusion, Pyle Low-Profile Waterproof Marine Speakers PLMRS63WL.5s can be an excellent choice if you’re looking for easy marine speakers that are easy to install and use. If you don’t want to spend a lot of money on your sound system or boat stereo and still want to spice up your next adventure on the open sea, we highly recommend them.

View on Amazon: Pyle Low-Profile Waterproof Marine Speakers PLMRS63WL.5

3. BOSS Audio Systems MR6W

Best Budget Marine Speakers

  • Available in a variety of sizes
  • Easy on the pocket
  • Convenient to install and use
  • High-grade weatherproof insulation
  • You can purchase it with the receiver, but it is pricey
  • Water-resistant, though not waterproof

The first thing that strikes us and makes BOSS Audio Systems stand out is their availability of a wide range of size and wattage options to suit almost any setup you might have. They use high-grade weatherproof materials and have a dome-shaped tweeter that perfectly projects audio and keeps you enjoying your boat, yacht, or dock, projecting sound throughout.

We like the modern design and how simple and easy it is to use. It has a compact size, making it ideal for small spaces. You can use it in various settings, including boats, yachts, dinghies, kayaks, and others.

Because it weighs only 6.4 pounds, it is easy to transport. And thanks to the powerful Bluetooth, it’s simple to connect it to Bluetooth-enabled gadgets and devices. It is waterproof (IPX6) and weatherproof to withstand the elements.

In conclusion, if you want to impress the guests on your boat with your big speaker, BOSS Audio Systems MR6W won’t be a good choice. However, if you want a speaker that can handle some good music without breaking the bank, this is ideal!

View on Amazon: BOSS Audio Systems MR6W

4. JBL MS6510 

Most Durable Marine Speakers

  • Affordable price
  • Futuristic and impressive design
  • Waterproof
  • Intriguing sound quality
  • Cannot handle UV rays

We were amazed by the JBL MS6510’s design and manufacturing that could withstand the rigors of life on the water. This one-piece polymer basket can resist years of salt and sun as the rubber protects it. Whether tearing across the waves or relaxing on the dock, your music will sound crystal clear.

This speaker’s patented Plus OneTM polypropylene cones provide an impressive speaker-cone surface to improve low-frequency response and a more enjoyable listening experience. Thanks to the dual cone’s abundance of high-frequency sparkle, we heard every nuance. We can bet that brass, vocals, and pianos, which used to sound muffled through your old boat speakers, will sound clear through these JBLs.

With stunning audio from JBL marine speakers, we drowned out the wind, water, and even the roar of our boat’s engine when we tested it in the waters. Therefore, you can expect the precise, powerful sound signature you’ve come to expect from JBL from these speakers, which we tested rigorously for their strength and durability.

In conclusion, if you want a great-looking speaker in addition to great sound while having a boat party, JBL MS6510 has you covered.

View on Amazon: JBL MS6510 

5. Kenwood KFC-1653MRW

Best Marine Speakers for the Money

  • Frequency response ranges from 60Hz to 20,000Hz
  • Cone made of water-resistant polypropylene
  • Excellent audio quality
  • Impedance of 4 ohms
  • Low bass

We not only found these speakers stunning but were also impressed by the incredible sound quality. Furthermore, we could easily slide these 6.5-inch speakers into place and did not need any help or professional installation. Besides, its outstanding features and greatly improved system make it impervious to external noises such as wind, waves, etc. In terms of durability, you won’t find a better speaker on the market than this one, period.

Additionally, these marine speakers have an impedance of 4 ohms and a frequency range of 60 Hz to 20 thousand Hz. As a result of its advanced technology, this pair of speakers eliminates all external noise and produces booming sound, and we could even dance to the music.

Finally, don’t overlook its water-resistant PP cone and fully marinized housing. This factor protects it from water, but it also lasts longer, allowing you to get more bang for your buck. The KFC-1653MRW is the best choice in this category in terms of price and size. Its small size makes installation simple, and the low price range makes it accessible.

In conclusion, if you need a small and dependable marine speaker, look no further! The Kenwood KFC-1653MRW is a small-sized speaker that looks durable and cool in its white color.

View on Amazon: Kenwood KFC-1653MRW

6. BOSS Audio Systems MRWT69RGB Marine Waketower Speaker System

Best Marine Tower Speaker

  • You can listen to music from a variety of different apps
  • Robust construction
  • UV protection protects from direct sunlight
  • Contains the wake tower mounting that makes the installation process easy
  • Setup is simple and requires only two tools
  • Superior audio quality
  • Provides waterproofing, which is critical for marine speakers
  • We did not experience any issues with these speakers

The Audio MRWT69RGB marine speakers have an elegant, distinctive, and compact design that is easy to install on the roll bars. With their exceptional extra sturdiness and sound quality, you will find these 6 x 9 inch, 2-way marine speakers fit for all-terrain, power sports, and various marine activities you intend to use them for.

We were very impressed with the design of MRWT69RGB, and the material used is Polypropylene which is flexible, resilient, and long-lasting. The polypropylene cone provides maximum flexibility and extends the speaker’s lifespan. The cone’s butyl rubber surround connects it to a plastic basket.

The speaker system is simple to set up, and we just needed only two tools to set it up, so you can take it on your next boat adventure and listen to your favorite songs while riding on the waves. The superior sound quality of MRWT69RGB that mesmerized us is because of the rubber surround, aluminum voice coil, silk tweeter, and plastic basket.

In conclusion, if you want excellent sound quality, easy installation, and a compact design that’s just out of this world, BOSS MRWT69RGB is the marine speaker you should select for your boat.

View on Amazon: BOSS Audio Systems MRWT69RGB Marine Waketower Speaker System

7. JBL MS9520

Best Waterproof Marine Speakers

  • Attractive design
  • Coaxial configuration eliminates the need for an external tweeter
  • Sound is crisp and clear; decent bass
  • Easy to install and use
  • Somewhat expensive

The MS 9520 speakers from JBL can withstand the rigors of the sea. These six-inch-by-nine-inch speakers with a waterproof motor, cast-polymer basket and magnet, and rubber surrounds can withstand sun, spray, and scrub-downs. And they did not let us down even after continuous usage lasting up to 2 months.

JBL is well-known for producing high-quality sound, so they applied some of their most innovative thinking to the design of these marine speakers. Because of the oversized Plus One™ polypropylene cones, the sensitivity increases, the low-frequency thump increases, and we found the listening experience richer.

The weather-resistant balanced dome tweeters are mounted on the grilles by JBL so that you can hear all of the subtle nuances of the music in detail. We enjoyed crystal-clear music emanating from them. One remarkable thing worth mentioning is that because of the one-piece polymer basket and rubber seals, it can withstand years of exposure to sun and salt. The grille-mounted tweeter seals the front of the tweeter, thereby shielding the motor structure from moisture.

In conclusion, if you want a waterproof marine speaker to look great on your boat and the JBL sound quality, whether roaring across the waves or relaxing at the dock, JBL MS9520 will do the job.

View on Amazon: JBL MS9520

8. Skar Audio SK65MB

Best Sounding Marine Speakers

  • Crystal clear sound quality
  • Seamless two-way design
  • Robust marine-grade speakers
  • Value for money
  • Slightly pricey

The most common risk to speakers while on the water is that they will fail due to water conditions, but you won’t have to worry with the Skar Audio SK65MB. Its super-durable, marine-grade construction keeps it dry.

Furthermore, we marveled at the sound quality at a peak power of 320 watts; it lifted us off our feet. It also employs a 1.2″ voice coil to produce thunderous audio quality and create a rocking atmosphere. Besides, these two-way speakers include a highly efficient, marine-grade tweeter on top. As a result, the speaker produces high-quality sound.

Water is kept out of its internal machinery by its heavy-duty enclosure housing. A strong magnet in the speaker helps with power handling, frequency response, and the speaker’s response to power. Having a powerful magnet in a powerful voice coil improves sensitivity, ensuring you reliable sound.

In conclusion, if you want a speaker which gives enough sound performance and is highly durable at an affordable price, Skar Audio SK65MB certainly fits the bill.

View on Amazon: Skar Audio SK65MB

9. Kicker 45KM84L

Best High-End Marine Speakers

  • Durable marine-grade speaker
  • Mid-range woofer’s superior power handling capability
  • LED lighting enlivens the experience
  • Needs an amplifier to boost the sound

Kicker is a fantastic company that makes powerful speakers and has a solid reputation for marine-grade units. They have certainly delivered with these 8″ coaxial marine speakers that are an excellent addition to your expanding sound system. They have deep, solid mids and a separate tweeter that adds midrange and high frequencies.

Kicker added bright red LED lighting to elevate your experience if the sound wasn’t enough. These speakers have a peak handling of 300 watts and require at least 150 watts for optimum performance. If you use them with amplifiers and speakers dedicated to high- and mid-range frequencies to compliment the deep mids, these speakers will shine and give you a new sonic experience.

If you’re looking to upgrade the audio on your boat, these 8″ coaxial speakers are a great option as they don’t need an enclosure because of their marine design. Moreover, you can use these Kicker speakers in a free-air or infinite baffle system and still get great sound; just remember to use the high RMS value for the best sound.

You’ll be even happier knowing how cool these look now that you know they’ll sound great on your boat. Kicker comes with two grill colors to match your interior décor.

In conclusion, if you look for top-quality sound reproduction, outstanding performance features, and super-cool looks, Kicker 45KM84L fits the bill.

View on Amazon: Kicker 45KM84L

10. Pioneer TS-MR2040

Marine Speakers With Best Bass

  • Crystal clear highs and solid bass
  • Great sound clarity
  • Solid built
  • Impressive looks
  • Reasonable price in comparison to others in the same bracket
  • Made with innovative materials which make it highly durable
  • We did not experience any issues with these speakers

The Pioneer TS-MR2040 is our top-rated best bass marine speaker, and like the rest of Pioneer’s audio products, it is built to last and withstand the rigors of the marine environment. We were satisfied with its composition. The cone is of a water-resistant polypropylene material resistant to salt, water, humidity, and extreme heat, which is very important if you need to use it on water. Moreover, being lightweight and portable is a huge plus.

A 3″ poly-imide reflex horn tweeter is built-in within the cone; a design Pioneer developed to provide moisture protection while maintaining high-quality sound at high frequencies. And you don’t need to worry about keeping a clean white finish for years to come as the surround can withstand fading and running caused by the elements.

We found them visually appealing, but they are also sound appealing, thanks to an excellent sensitivity rating, deep bass, and top-of-the-line high frequencies. Pioneer used gold-plated tinsel leads and terminals instead of traditional materials to improve the conductivity and ensure that everything was delivered as effectively as possible within the speaker. So, a lot of detailing to provide you with the best bass response!

You will find the detailed installation instructions in the packaging, and an installation guide with a template is on the box for installations performed outside the factory.

In conclusion, if you want straight-of-the-art marine speakers that have sound quality that you can distinguish between notes of musical instruments playing and volume and have a slightly higher budget, go and buy Pioneer TS-MR2040.

Frequently Answered Questions About Marine Speakers

Are Marine Speakers Waterproof?

Marine speakers are used in environments like on a boat, yachts, or docks where they may be splashed on, rained on, or even hosed down. Because of this, they need to be waterproof. The design of the marine speakers is such that they can withstand water, humidity, and climate changes that may occur in the marine environment.

How to Measure Marine Speakers?

It’s critical to determine the size of your speakers before purchasing replacements. You need to follow some steps to measure the speaker’s dimensions.

Determine The Dimensions Of The Speaker

Take the speaker out of the housing.
Verify the mounting frame’s diameter.
Calculate the diameter of the cutout, distance between the speaker and the mounting frame, and the speaker’s height.

Do Marine Speakers Need a Box?

Essentially no. However, box speakers are the simplest to install and come with their own acoustically designed enclosure, ensuring that you will hear the same sound quality in the shop as on your boat.

What is the Best Watt Rating for Marine Speakers?

Most marine speakers are rated for 150 watts of power, but more powerful options are available, such as 200 watts or 250 watts of peak power. In terms of loudness, the higher peak power rating of 250 watts will be the most powerful option compared to the others.

Can You Put Marine Speakers in a Car?

The quick answer is yes. You can use marine speakers in place of car speakers. Most marine speakers are compatible with automobiles due to their standard car speaker size. Additionally, marine speakers are waterproof, eliminating corrosion concerns when crossing rivers or driving with the roof down in the rain.

Some marine speakers are built-in to the enclosures, and they fit perfectly on roof bars, particularly on ATVs, 4x4s, and trucks.

How to Install Marine Speakers?

Even though boat speakers have various options, each boat is unique; the installation process is nearly identical. Installing speakers on a boat can be difficult, so it’s best left to those with prior experience in audio installation. With that in mind, let’s tell you the steps to installing speakers on a boat.

Identify the best mounting locations for the new speakers and plan accordingly. Ensure that you place the speakers in areas where no damage comes to them by passengers’ feet, fishing or other equipment, or excessive moisture.

If your boat did not previously have speakers, you would need to draw out the placement of your speakers. Make sure that the diameter of the hole you draw corresponds to the cutout diameter of the speaker.

You need to configure the wiring of the boat speaker. Connect the positive stereo output to the positive speaker terminals with your marine grade speaker wire (ensure they are “in phase”).

After completing the wiring, it’s time to put your speakers through their paces with some testing! Before installation, make sure that everything is in working order and has excellent sound quality.

To mount the speakers, you’ll need to predrill the holes first. Using a slightly smaller drill than the screws that came with your speaker, drill through the mounting holes on the speaker and secure the speaker in place. Install the waterproof gasket provided behind the speaker and screw it in place.

Final Words

So this was all about the best marine speakers and their key features. So if you are planning to buy some new marine speakers or upgrade the old ones, take a look at any of these marine speakers on our list and get the adventure started.

If you want to go with our choice, we recommend Infinity INF622MLT Two-Way Multi-Element RGB Titanium Marine Speakers. They are one of the highest quality to price ratios on the market, and they take care of all your marine needs.

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