Best Car Sound Systems Ranked! (2021 Edition)
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- čas přidán 24. 04. 2021
- 2024 update here: • Best Car Sound Systems...
Are you looking for the best car audio system? We've ranked all the brands we're familiar enough with to rank. Some have many speakers, some have few, but they all have a spot on Daily Motor's sound system tier list!
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This video was filmed with in-ear, binaural microphones, so if you listen with headphones, it will sound like you're sitting in the driver's seat!
#soundsystem #tierlist #caraudio - Auta a dopravní prostředky
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What happened to E tier?
lexus better sound same bentely adn rols royice but lexus the system meadia bad and old owthwer wise is great
wheres audi
I think you individualize the Stanltis brands and each one a fair review. I drive an Alfa and the stereo is worth its own review!
You are the only one who reviews the loudspeakers of different car brands, and yet you take it beyond the scope of individual videos. For me personally, this is a particularly important criterion when buying a car. Thank you very much for your hard work! In addition, I would like to hear different tracks for a change. So that the tracks do not harm monetization and copyrights, it is enough when searching for music at the end to add copyright free or use youtube phonoteka))
Shit I thought I was the only one
Whats your personal ranking? I haven’t found a lot of people talking about this
Kpaceguy reviews factory car audio too
It is a very underrated feature, despite its huge impact on the experience.
All hail daily motor
Frankly the B&W in Volvo stands in a class of its own. I have compared it to high end Burmester and personally can recognize a significant difference.
The Bowers and Wilkins is a amazing system, don't know why he failed to emphasize how awesome this system is.
You know there is huge diffrence between Burmester and Burmester3D?
@Bamboo Shoot i have a 2007 volvo as well but with the dynaudio system. It is awesome!
The B&W on my BMW is absolutely astonishing at at low or max volume.
@@taurtzz didn’t know that !
We own several Acuras… we love their sound systems as it feels like you’re in a movie theater.
This is helpful! I’ve always hated how most car reviews gloss over sound quality if they even mention it at all, especially on anything other than top trims
Totally agree with Volvos ranking, my brother owns a 2013 xc60 and man that thing sounds incredible! You can feel the whole car shake when the volume is turned up!
Rolls-Royce Phantom combined with their bespoke audio system is mind blowing. I’m lucky enough to work with these cars and every time I hear the system, I’m blown away every time.
They sound the best of everything. I have the new S class coming with the new 4D will be interesting..
Thank you Charlie, as an audiophile this is great!!
This video is audiophiles heaven
Yes. Yes it is.
Absolutely! As an audiophile I’d really have to agree with his rankings. Merc and LR (sadly not included) have always led the board for car audio in their top trims. It’s amazing to listen to songs with a bermeister or Meridian system, so many layers to an audio track that go hidden with other systems.
I haven’t driven a new volvo in a while but am anxious to do so now. I almost bought a new X5 a couple months ago, but was so disappointed by the sound system.
@@humblesophos your X5 have Harman Kardon or Bowers & Wilkins?
@@degou3438 I tried X5’s with both systems, there was a noticeable difference between the two but neither were great, just not as good as what I’ve heard in Mercedes and LR’s tops systems. To a non audiophile both systems would probably sound awesome, but I was left disappointed.
I ended up delaying my suv purchase in favor of a new truck. I got a 2022 F350 with a B&O system I think it’s almost as good as BMW’s systems but not as good as what rumors are saying about the F-150’s new B&O system.
I love my Benz but it sounds horrible! Want to go back to Acura
AMAZING VIDEO. You did a wonderful job my man!
As an audio enthusiast myself this was an amazing comparison of what I was looking for.
5 Stars!
I just stumbled across this after I purchased a new car. I love most of these opinions. I am an audiophile and the sound system is one of my key elements in evaluating cars. When I test drive cars I bring a USB stick with my favorite audio recordings and they are all .flac files, which I consider the best format with the least amount of compression. They also allow 192kHz 24 bit files which is the highest resolution I have found. I owned an Audi SQ5 with the Bang-Olufson system and loved it! I ended up buying a Mazda CX 50 with the Bose 12 speaker system and it is just as good as the Audi. Plus it plays flac uncompressed files, which makes a HUGE difference. When I first saw you were putting Bose systems way down in the C-D category I was annoyed until I saw you put the Mazdas in the B category. Great job. Just wanted to point out that the best speakers/amps/subwoofers are marginalized if they only play MP-3 or don't recognize hi-res file formats. Case in point: I drove Genesis cars and they do NOT play flac files. I highly recommend to everybody to explore the supported file formats when deciding car audio!
Great ranking for the "2021 Best Car Sound Systems". I'll be watching for your 2022 Best Car Sound Systems ranking. It will be interesting to see where Acura's 25 Speaker LS STUDIO 3D | SIGNATURE EDITION system in the 2022 MDX ranks.
Ranking by brand definitely isn't the best way to do it, but I guess it's a general approximation. Would love to see savagegeese make a list of specific systems as they do objective measurements of them
It is difficult but this is the most workable ranking system. Savagegeese really need to. Would love to see that.
Well I know the RDX has an amazing sound system
Savagegeese is HARDLY objective 🤣🤣🤣 HE DOESN'T USE NUMBERS.
Alex on Motors. HE is objective with number comparisons.
100% agree my girl has a Civic, not the greatest sound system but it does the job. I have a New Passport and it sounds better than my Silverado and my Ram that I had. Cool video but it’s depends on the car not the maker. Like some Dodge’s come with Bose or Beats sound system some don’t same concepts
There is no mention of how the tier list is derived. I can only guess it is by subjective listening when they test the cars. But to rank them subjectively, it can really only be done if all the cars are in one place, listening to the same music at the same volume, with the listener(s) not know what car(s) they are sitting in.
I have always been in to car audio since 1986. I own Volvos and Mazdas and I was blown away by the audio systems in both cars. I had a dynaudio system in my C70 Volvo and it was amazing, loud and crystal clear even with the top down at 80+ mph. I have a 2006 s60r and my stock system is so loud and clear with the dolby atmos turned on, I swear it sounds like I have a modern upgraded system. It's not perfect by any means but it does the job better than other car systems out there and it's old. I had no idea Volvos had such great audio systems until I owned one.
Volvo it’s amazing with sound systems
The c70 came with dynaudio, one of the best ever made. Back in the 80s, Alpine was buying their top-of-the-line speakers from dynaudio.
As a former pro musician the audio system is important. I had an AM 2003 Vanquish with an awesome sub and sound quality for a GT. However, my 2012 Jag XFS has the B and W 1200w system. It is INCREDIBLE. Whatever you chuck at it, it's clear very loud with a full frequency range/stereo image wherever you sit in the car. I suspect the system cost more when new than the entire car is now worth (175,000 miles).
As someone that worked at IAP and constantly worked on Volvo cars, I can vouch for the Bowers & Wilkins package. Audio is very important in the cars that I own, but Volvo definitely produces a sound that I haven't heard out of any other manufacturer ever, period. We had Maybach cars come in as well, and they are very nice don't get me wrong, but if you want the best speaker package, Volvo definitely outdid themselves.
too bad volvos owned by evil genocidal china
Every Volvo I’ve driven has had a loud ass system lol
Yep I can only imagine the B&W in a Volvo. However I think the Range Rover's 29 Speaker Meridian Sound System has to be better
@@v12-s65The Bowers is about the best you'll find in a car. However, don't expect any car to hold up to even a modest home setup
@@tannerhartl5175 home setups are weird because the speakers you buy aren't made for the exact room they will be in. If you want tailor made high quality speaker it's gonna cost you more than an average car.
I wouldn't say B&W is the best I need to hear both but from my experience already the smaller Meridian System with only 17 Speakers is already insanely good. Won't ever need more in a car
Great list. We have a Honda Accord base model for my son and I just got the Volvo with the Bowers and Wilkins. I can tell you that Honda's is godawful and the Volvo is absolutely ridiculous. It is so good that when I get home and pull into my garage I'll just sit there and continue to listen to music with a huge smile on my face. Random family members will get in the car with me to listen when they hear me in the garage. Just listened to Eugene's Lament by the Beastie Boys for about the 500th time but for the first time in the Volvo, heard the bow sliding across the violin strings like it was 3 feet from my head. Incredible. Have had the Burmester in a Porsche Panamara and the Harmon/Kardon in a BMW. Both good systems but the B&W is next level.
Thanks for doin this rankin. So many car reviewers on CZcams and they almost all gloss over the sound system quality. No one ranks them. You are doing a public service and public good with this video.
This is a great list! I'm really impressed with the variety of options available. The prices are reasonable too, so it's definitely worth checking out if you're looking to upgrade your car's sound system. Thanks for sharing this information!
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Question: what about vehicles that are good at keeping the sound inside the vehicle? I want to listen to some loud music but not be a nuisance to other drivers
@@cwmillerrr1 systems built with separate enclosures help a lot. Also just dampening the doors.
Daily Motor I respect your opinion, but with a few of these I have to disagree with you.
Love the sound system in my 2016 Mazda 6 GT. Had to add Dynamat to my driver side door to deal with door rattling and later replaced my driver side mirror that had begun to rattle. Once those two things were done, my car has a pristine sound that passersby routinely nod their heads in appreciation.
you got bose in there right?
@@Chiinkayy 12 Bose speakers! I'm sure that many speakers make a profound difference.
Back when I was in the market for my first car I wanted a great audio experience. I had someone recommend the 08 Acura TL to me. I was absolutely blown away by the thing. I couldn’t believe an audio system that old could keep up with the most demanding songs in my playlist. I got a type s this year and have no plans on getting another vehicle until I can afford the maintenance on a Mercedes’ lol. Looks like I made the right choice
At the time it was one of, if not the top system on the market. Still holds its own today like you mentioned.
Mercedes newer sound system sucks sounds horrible
@kinghtoo2253 I wouldn't say it sounds horrible. But I'm not a fan of whatever digital sound processing they use. Past about 75 percent volume it doesn't actually get any louder. I still prefer whatever dsp acura uses.
@@kurokaien18the 2004-2012 Acura ELS systems with the disc drive didn’t use *any* additional signal processing. They read DVD-Audio & DTS discs in high resolution 5.1 straight from the disc. Those systems sound just good with cd or aux/bluetooth….but with DVD-Audio discs the jaws hit the floor. Absolutely stunning.
I’ve been waiting for a review of audio systems. Thanks you Much !!!
thank you for this, been looking for a review of this kind.
Interesting how the list of the most solid and well rounded sound systems is reflecting a lot of brands on the come up...essentially brands that have been meteoric in elevating their driving quality, brand recognition and prestige in the past decade.
Case in point...Mazda is in the High B Tier, which I can certainly attest to. The premium Bose system in my 2021 3 Turbo Hatch is incredibly full sounding, dynamic, and can get a little too loud lol. Certainly raising the bar.
Loved my lexicon system in my Genesis. The 15speaker Harmon Kardon system in my Kia Stinger is pretty good also. The meridian system in my Range Rover was nice too! I lease so I get to try a new car every three years and I got to have top trim level to get the good sound system.
I love the meridian so far in the Jaguar
The Meridian is an amazing factory system, I had the 390w Meridian system in my 2012 Evoque (3-way splits 6"&4" + tweeter in front door, 2-way splits 6"&4" in rear door with underseat sub) its miles better than the Mercedes E-class 590w Burmester & Porsche Cayenne Bose systems. TBH the 590w Mercedes Burmester is terrible I have no idea how it made the top tier. System was made up of two 6" frontbass, seven 4" mids & four tweeters, low & mid range was terrible.
@Rico I had a 2011 Genesis with the Lexicon, controls were very hard to find but when I adjusted it, it sounded great. I believe it’s the same system Rolls Royce used in the older Phantom
I have the H/K system in my 2020 Volvo S90, and I never want to get out of the car when I get home!! It’s that good!
When it comes to Benz audio systems, even their in-house non branded audio systems are pretty good. I own a Benz with the Harmon Kardon Logic 7 sound system and that is the best car stereo system I’ve ever had.
@@armandol1826 on cheap cars yeah but not on high dollar cars
@@armandol1826 All system in cars suck, 2k in a living room will blast everything you can put in a tin can with wheels.
The logic 7 was the best! The new Burmester system I tested in the c class was garbage not sure if they have upgraded it but it had no subwoofer. 😐
I have the same system in my bmw and I think it’s the best in the world
@@armandol1826 can you support your dumb comments with some facts?
Speaker quality and ride quality 2 biggest factors for me. This list is pretty accurate. I had an 11 ford fusion stock stereo and the bass hit so low and so loud people would ask me what subs I had and they were often shocked when I told them it was stock, which it was. I have a new Honda Civic now and am missing a good ride and good speakers 🤦 Go American
My friend has an 11 fusion and the bass in that thing is absurd lmao
Yeah look forward to seeing more like JLR, Bentley and Audi / Lamborghini B&Os, and the Burmester in the Porsche, love listening to really good sound systems, although the normal B&Os on the Audis aren't as good as the Burmesters in the Mercedes in my opinion that is, great comparison though!!
Benz or nothing
Mmm, the older b&o systems in Audis are amazing. Still never heard anything come close to them. The new ones not so great…
@@iilocked I’m thinking about getting an Audi a4, would you say the B&O is worth it or nah? It’s like 5000 bucks extra to upgrade to the trim with it which is pretty steep.
Honda definitely deserves a Z. That's the one thing that has kept me from buying one.
I have a 2013 accord EX L with the upgraded sound system. Its really not bad. Id put it over cars ive drove which have been 2019 fusion, camry, 2020 base accord, an acura TL i had, huyndai, subaru.
@@Elmamaguebo16 idk man I have a 2017 exl and that shot is garbage, definitely bottom of the bucket garbage. The sub rattles with out the volume being high.
My 17 CRV 15 civic si both have bland stereos.
I have a 2021 Mazda3 Hatch Premium and man that Bose package is just great! Super happy to hear that you rank the Harmon Kardon system in the Hyundai the same. I’m currently looking into the Kona Electric!
I have the 2017 Mercedes C coupe AMG with the Burmester Hi-Fi system. I was scared how loud and still clear the volume can get and how powerful the bass can be 🤤 best system I ever had !
Bro... the bass sucks
@@kristiankangastie7864 it’s absolutely horrible I test drove that same year model and the reason why I didn’t get it was because of the horrible sound system it had no sub in it and relied on front woofer technology that sounded like shit. The previous Harman Kardon system was way better!
I replaced original burmester footwell woofers to Focal mbz woofers and added new amp to Focals. Now the bass is low and high quality. It was so worth it... original burmester amp is still driving all the other speakers.
And its looking like oem. New amp is hidden to trunk below trunk carpet
Great list. It would be great in future reviews if you could show what EQ settings you use for each vehicle as that usually can make a big difference.
On every video he mentioned that he leaves it at the standard setting since it’s what the manufacturer think it’s best
Exactly. Right off the bat Nissans bose system should be listed near the top.
EQ'ng your audio setting will defeat every single purpose of what your audio system has to deliver. It should sound great based on initial settings. Always.
@AAABeatbox no, with the default settings they try to give something for everyone, but each person likes different sound profiles, so you'll have to tune the treble and bass to your preference
I would definitely put the Bose system from Infiniti a little higher. While its not the best, its pretty good. I would also put the ALS system from Acura higher probably to the highest tier. Its an insane sound system.
about to buy a volvo s90 with every option avalible including the B&W so this list makes me happy
Here's to 2022's list including Porsche, Bentley, Audi, and JLR!
About fca you said is true about there harman/kardon sound system they all sound good but the one in the dodge is a ehhh I rather get the alpine over the harman in the dodge unless they retuned the audio system but like in the jeep rams the harman actually sounds pretty good and better then most audio systems in there class but they did hyped up the harman kardon audio system to much like u said I listened to them they have a powerful sub and mids and highs are good but need a little more adjustment to sound balanced but the alpine sounds the best for a cheap upgrade in the audio department
You should also test out MPSS, found in the upper trims 2022 Eclipse Cross amd Outlander PHEV
i really want to watch a Porsche Burmester review, especially MACAN thanks
Audi s3 B&O
@@sagarsampat7732 My S3's B & O is phenomenal!
I drive a 2020 C300 and the Burmister system is second to none. I have been in many cars and I have never heard a system that is so rich in sound.
I've found the Burmester system is exceptionally crisp but, throughout the lineup, lacks bass.
@@seans9125 That’s because they took out the subwoofers and use the front with her technology it’s absolutely horrible!
I've heard the B&W in a friends XC60 and it's crystal clear to the max volume. Truly awesome for factory sound. I've had the Beats audio in a Chrysler 300, mid level Bose in a Cadillac XT5, and most recently, the regular B&O (not the unleashed) in an F-150. I'd rank them as B&O > Beats > Bose. The Bose was crap although I hear the higher systems are okay. The Beats obviously had bass but the highs were quite bad until I replaced the (3) 3.5 mids on the dash, then it was darn near perfect. The F-150 is tuned really well and sounds nice, the best of the 3, it just lacks overall bass since ford dropped the 8-inch sub and switched it to a 6x9.
Very interesting. I have a 2015 Kia Optima and LOVE my Infinity sound. Looking for a new vehicle and looking at the Mazda CX5 or VW Taos. Haven't listened to the Beats Audio in the SEL (watched your video) but great sound is a must or bust for me. Maybe the Hyundai Tuscan.
Nice!! I might have ranked Toyota and Honda together at the bottom for sound. Of course, nobody buys a Toyota or Honda for sound. Today we picked up a new 2022 Nissan Rouge Platinum with Bose. I like the sound in this redesigned Rouge, but Nissan and Bose are working to improve their reputations. It takes time regardless of the quality.
Mazda should be reconsidered. Their Bose systems are truly amazing. I own a 22 Mazda 3, 23 CX-50, and a 21 CX-9, and all of them are mind blowing. I agree with chevy, they're trash. Toyota should be down there with Honda honestly. Also, don't worry about testing Audi's sound systems. Just put them in the D or F tier and forget about them. They're actually hard to listen to
Facts bro even my 2011 mazda speakers are so much cleaner and have such a nice bass compared to my 2014 Ford F-150. Car vs truck but still the audio difference to me was night and day
I have a 2018 with 9 speaker Bose sound system. I like it a lot. When you listen to HD music on it, it’s even better!
My Audi Q5. Bang and olufsen. Sounds amazing you should definitely try for your next vid
Really impressive that Genesis is so high up. Really disappointed BMW falls so low though, but I suppose you can't have it all since they're providing the most usable infotainment system by far.
Genesis' benchmark were the German duo (Mercedes and BMW). So no surprises IMO
Do you Heard the bowers and wilkins from bmw?
@@kiranismaili3954 it's nothing really special honestly ..
@@kiranismaili3954 i have harman kandor in my 2020 bmw g20. My old 2005 audi a4 with stock sound system has superior quality to the bmw.
high end bmws have the bowers and wilkins system, which beats every car manufacturer. Too bad most BMWs don't offer the system.
Woah thank you for this!!!
Love these reports! Keep up the excellent work.
My 2008 Chrysler Sebring Steel Top Convertible had a Boston Sound System if memory serves me. It sounded fantastic. I opened the top every chance I could. I had an amazing sound system experience. I made my own dance remixes so you heard everything clear as day. My side view mirrors would dance to the beat of the drums. My 2018 Lincoln MKZ Reserve AWD has the ultimate in sound system’s that I never thought would be possible. It was better than my 2011 MKZ. I open the Moonroof & the windows & put on my Dance Music & it like my own Dance Club on wheels! They have the Speakers & Tweeter’s placed in the right locations. I don’t recall the number of speakers but it Phenomenal to me. I’m very picky about my sound system’s. I still have Vinyl, Cassette, CD & MP3. I only had one tape get damaged. It was a cheap tape that was given to me. I bought professional tapes & bought professional cleaning products for tape’s & CD’s & vinyl cleaner for record’s.
Our Honda FR-V has unbranded, but upgraded speakers. They actually sound very good, much better than every BMW, Škoda and VW speakers I've ever listened to.
I've driven so many cars and love good quality sound. I've never been a huge Bose fan but I can say that the Bose system in the Q50 is pretty amazing and far better than any BMW I've owned or been in, including the Harmon Cardon system. I've even had the privilege of spending a lot of time in an Alpina B7 with the Bowers and Wilkinson system and it's a beautiful sound but not that much better.
THANK YOU SOMEONE HAD TO CALL OUT THE FOUL INFINITI DISS
I sat in a Maxima at the dealership and the sound system on that was pretty good
Bose system is trash, dont even compare it to Harman kardon of Bmw. Also even mentioing it in the same comment with Bmw Bowers & wilkins is hilarious. Bose is trash, as people know no highs no lows must be bose. Bose is a low quality budget system with boosted upper bass and muffled higs
@@maxl7827 yeah…I’ve been in many BMWs I would agree with you!! The brand has way more presence and usually for the most part a higher quality audiophile quality….but the Q50 is one of the only cars that has had a true realistic consistent quality to it that you would have to sit in. Yes, it’s not a Mercedes’ or Volvo, but it BLOWS out BMW, sadly because most BMW stock systems have a lot of messy unclear distortion in its systems. Same goes for a lot of the others. This one isn’t I promise you.
@@Keatongaming1 Sorry but no infiniti comes close to german cars regarding audio systems. Yeah, it maybe could be better than Bmw base audio or hifi. However better than Harman kardon/logic 7? I dont think so. Better than Bmw Individual audio, Bang & olufsen or Bowers & Wilkins? Not even remotely close. There is absolutely zero distortion on Bang & olufsen and Bowers & wilkins system, even at very high volume so idk what you have been listening to then.
I have a mid-tier audio system in my challenger R/T my only issues are the occasional freezes, which is annoying AF. But the sound quality on the alpine system was amazing!
I have a 2006 mdx touring and I bet it would be in the A or S tier over the new mdx. It hits the lows perfectly and is crystal clear at higher volumes.
I knew my Volvo XC90's Bowers & Wilkins system would be the best.
Mercedes Benz’s Burmeister is like God whispering in your ear though.
@@SuperEman500
How do you really know the sound of God's voice? Is it like James Earl Jones perhaps? What would Burmeister sound like to an atheist or even an agnostic?
May not be the best, but it's definitely a huge bang for your bucks
@@tomizhou8137 Naim for Bentley is the best of the best in the world by far!
@@ivanlowjones Like a a woman
My 2010 Mazda w/ Bose took me back with how nice it sounded compared to my previous Infiniti’s. Idk if I’m just not picky, but it sounds so nice to me.
I have a 2010 Mazda without the Bose. I remember when it was new that I struggled to hear the difference between the base system and the Bose. I did, however, take the savings and add a 10" subwoofer to it, and the system blows me away! Almost disappointed with my next car's premium audio system in comparison to how good that Mazda sounded.
This is a really great niche for a youtube channel!
Agree we have a Volvo V90 R-Design with the Harman & Kardon and it sounds amazing
The Bose 7 speaker sound system in the Renault is phenomenal. great sound.
which Renault? Clio?
Heard Acura is making a signature version of the ELS system that’s supposed to be the better than their best. I would also put bmw in the A tier, their systems are nicely crafted light up, and their latest models have been revised.
I got my 2010 accord form a local dealership and honestly the sound system is great people ask me if I put in aftermarket speakers and I have a sneaking suspicion that whoever owned it before probably did so because the sound is very clear and crisp and booms quite well
missing out on Audis Bang & Olufsen sound system, its incredible! and subarus systems are great too but i find that you need to take alot of time to listen and tune the sound. after that its on par with the B tier sound system. great video!
Acura’s els is definitely S tier but I agree the Mercedes is top notch as well
Not sure how the Acura ELS studio did not make the S list. It is beyond amazing.
@@educatedpug agreed. Goes to show the limited research that was done for this video
@@educatedpug Same with ML. They are totally amazing systems. Up there with the Volvo IMO.
I used to have a 1995 Maxima SE that had the optional Bose system (so at least 27 years for that partnership you mentioned) and it was shockingly good, especially in the mid-bass realm. I replaced it with a 1999 Lexus GS400 with a Nakamichi system that was highly regarded for its time, and while it sounded great in nearly all ways, it still didn't produce anywhere close to the tight punchy mid-bass that Maxima did.
I also sampled the Bose system in a 2002 Altima when they first came out - expecting it to be even better than my old Maxima. But I was really disappointed by what I heard. It was a huge step down, actually.
bose was FANTASTIC in the 90's, their equipment was made with really high quality materials for the time, and their audio engineers tuned the products like audio engineering artists. Thats why the Old Bose Speakers, if well maintained still cost somewhat of a small fortune to purchase. Their recent partnerships have been lackluster and have been chasing profit by cutting corners where they think its possible to.(i have a 2017 Mazda CX5) with the Bose speakers and while its definitely nice, aftermarket 6-8 speaker setups from Alpine, Polk, and JBL offer even better systems at lower prices, and WAY better prices if you look at the sticker cost of the bose system.
heck if you look up the best bose speakers of all time their all made in the 80's and 90's. Bose used to be special man. Fuck
Yeah the old Bose in those maxima were amazing. They really spoiled us.
Amazing video, thanks man!
Definitely do some testing on JLR’s use of Meridian systems. They are STUNNING when tuned right
Another fun fact regarding Volvo’s commitment to high quality audio, before the days of Bowers + Wilkins, Volvo offered a truly excellent system from DynAudio in some models. I have it in my C30 and have the B+W in my XC60 and feel very spoiled by both.
how do I know which system my volvo has? I get lots of complements from my friends while we listen to music on the road!
I don't know why the new MDX lowered the Acura score, but RDX 2020 and TLX 2022 Studio 3D are still S level and sound more organic and acoustic than other systems, very studio-like. Quick tip: if you close your eyes and you can hear the sound is coming from a speaker, and can even imagine the speaker type and material, and you can feel the size of the space of the cabin, then that's BAD system. A good system doesn't give away what material the speakers or their size, and good laid array will trick you into believing you are in a room as big as the room it was recorded. The Acura ELS 3D roof speakers replace the car roof reflections (or absorbtion) with recorded sound, making it feel like you're on a bigger room.
I agree, the S tier vehicles all should have ceiling mounted height channel speakers. The Volvo should be in the A class honestly!
Awesome review mate
Car music system is an important criteria while choosing a car
Thank you for this. Very needed.
Getting the EQ settings exactly right is a great way of saving money on a speaker upgrade in my experience. Not all UIs have the best EQ interfaces so it can take a lot of trial and error to find what you like, but all I’ll say is standard 2013 Honda Odyssey speakers sound incredible when EQd properly through system settings. Same with my 2017 Chevy Sonic. Some speakers are beyond saving though unfortunately :/
I have a 2014 Odyssey and I have a hard time seeing how anyone would hear it and think it's great. There's really no "EQ" to speak of either... adjusting bass, midrange, treble and sub volume isn't really going to give the kind of custom control you need to flatten out a response curve.
I'm not saying it's bad... in fact when this video said Honda was F tier, I whole-heartedly disagreed. To me it seems like the video creator took the fact that Honda doesn't license a brand name to slap on their factory systems (most of the branded systems are just licensed names stuck on OEM systems anyway) as enough reason to put them in the bottom tier.
This is pointless because when you EQ for one song it's going to be wrong for another.
@@garbygarb31 not inherently. If the sound signature the speakers put out by default is at the very least ok, adjusting the eq can make the can make them sound good or even great depending on how in depth and accurate the UI is. It’s just about getting rid of ugly frequencies and boosting good ones. But again mileage may vary based on a lot of factors.
ELS 3D sound system is so good when I heard it in TLX type S, thats only a compact sedan. Imagine it in MDX type S. I've just never experienced that good sound system before
No doubt about the MDX’s sound system - it’s out of this world, especially with the 3D ELS system ❤️
Tested Volvo, Lexus, Honda and Toyota, yup, agree a 100% with this ranking.
The base model chevy speakers I can defiantly see being put on the D tier; however, I would put my Bose system up there with the Mazda systems. Maybe it's just the acoustics of my cab, but I love it anyway. Pretty decent list!
Glad to see that Volvo made it to the top of the list. I am a bit surprised that Mercedes did, but I guess they're spending more money on audio development these days than they were back in the early 2000's.
I would love to see something like this for noise vibration and hum (NVH). A lot of manufacturers and reviewers say a vehicle is quiet inside and it’s shocking when you actually get in the car and you feel like you’re in a jet plane. Correction: on a jet plane
Why on
Why not in?
@@y.i5445 It's a joke. It's louder OUTSIDE the plane.
Car Confections is pretty good at this. They take a sound level reading of every car they drive
@@121476 Thanks, I'll check it out!
Volvo is tops, for sure. Their mid and high tier systems are delightful. Even my 1998 C70 stock has Dynaudio 8” woofers in the doors and deck, dome midranges and tweeters up front and an OEM version of the then-popular 400W Alpine V12 amplifier powering everything. It was considered the best stock stereo back then. My rescued 2001 S60 even has 14 speakers. The woofers with their 3” voice coils and Kevlar cones… mids facing right at you… impressive sound just about as good as the C70. Clear, natural and loud if you want it. This audiophile is impressed.
The 14 speaker Bose system in the C8 is incredible. So loud you can't hardly hear yourself scream as loud as you can! I love it. Hurts my ears on max after 5-10 min
Hey, I think my 2014 Honda CR-V (2 tweeters, 4 woofers, 1 subwoofer) sounds pretty good!
I had a chance of listening Bentley Continental GT’s NAIM audio system and was completely blown away. It would be great to see you testing it and hear your opinion.
Have you try listening to the B&O system?
Old or New continental?
I have not been in any vehicles that scored super high one the list but here is what I can say. our family has a 2021 Ram 1500 Limited, (Max trim or such) and the speakers are Fantastic. I am no audiophile, but when you get in the truck you can fell the sound all thought the truck. You can most certainly fell it in your seat.
I rent cars and just owned a 2020 Stinger.I just sold the stinger and bought a Mzda CX-30 Turbo with the bose system and can attest it is one of the best in any car--including many Audis I have driven.
Disappointed you didn’t include Audi, however u did say u didn’t test enough. The B&O 3D audio is really impressive.
Looking forward to your next review.
Pair Acura’s ELS 3D system with Apple Music’s lossless audio and it’s perfection
So useful, great work
Rotary knob infotainment is a must have once you use it long enough. Using a knob is wayyyy easier to use while driving and feels much more accurate.
Honda needs to bring some of their Acura audio to the Honda line up.
Agreed 🤞🏾
Both Acura and Honda systems are made by Panasonic in the same factory (along with Stellantis, GM, Ford and Mercedes!). Panasonic Auto makes 70%+ of all audio systems in the market - from the best to the crappiest.
Besides having the worst audio, Honda loud and boomy interior noise doesn’t help.
@@rainforestsz Interesting to know that Panasonic makes 70% of the audio systems.
@@jazzweather Delphi used to be a competitor along with Pioneer, Sharp and Clarion. Delphi is long gone. Not sure who the other main competitors are, I left Panasonic almost 10 yrs ago.
Btw even many systems labeled Bose or JBL or Harman Kardon etc were built by Panasonic. Bose just made the amplifier or had some design or tuning input and their name gets slapped on. It was an interesting business.
The mid-level Harman Kardon sound system in Volvo's is really impressive.
Have you tried the bowers system then?
Basically out of this world for a stock car system
@@carlspackler4447 oh yes I have. It sounds amazing. The Harman system is about 7-8 10ths as good though.
@@christopherrmcg good to know, Had a BMW with an H/K system and it was extremely disappointing for the added cost. I have only ever had the base stereo to compare for volvos
@@carlspackler4447 I agree I sampled the H/K in the BMW 3 series and it was very disappointing. No volume, lots of compression, poor bass response, surround sound sounds unnatural..
@@carlspackler4447 how does it sound in the base system in Volvos?
Going from my old 2013 Lexus to 2017 Lexus IS200T. The sound is so amazing!
This video goes crazy cuz I take audio seriously when purchasing my cars….thank you
I'd love to see a '24 version of this!!! Until then thanks for the great reviews and info..:)
I knew that Honda was going to rank last lol. Thank goodness that Acura has the ELS Sound System. Hopefully that rumour about Honda switching to a branded sound system is true 🤞🏾🤞🏾🤞🏾🤞🏾🤞🏾🤞🏾🤞🏾
New Civic has Bose premium now.
@@noelsaw yes, I saw. And I am very happy that Honda finally decided to go with a branded audio system.
@@noelsaw Bose sucks 😕
The premium Bose system in my wife’s Mazda CX-5 is amazing. It destroys the system in my ‘17 Camry SE.
I’m a BMW owner and don’t have the Harmen Kardon system and can vouch that the audio is still very nice… add a sub and i’m blown away.
man I'm checking every day when ur going to make another video like that lol
lol! Probably in a few months
Cadillac is definitely S tier. The AKG surround system tuned correctly is insane and the XT6 Bose pro series is also very impressive + has that big stainless grille. I personally would put Audi in A tier. the RSQ8 B&O is great and the 3D sound actually works on all models. the non premium audio still sounds good too.
I have a Cadillac XTS and that shit IS SO GOOD I SWEAR FOR GODDD EVEN FOR A YEAR THAT IS LESS ITS SO GOOD JUST FOR A CAR THAT IS 2015 this a 2021 video 💀💀💀 if y’all think Cadillac isn’t top tier then get out my face
@@yousleeponthis5112 They recently became top tier with AKG's system in escalade. I've been in several of their bose system in XT5 and XT6 and they were good not top tier in automotive audio. Looking forward to the refresh and hoping that they get great audio system upgrade to go with it
The Volvo system is incredible!
One thing that really stinks about the German offerings is that they are only offering their top tier on the V8 abs performance options now.
I would love to hear your thoughts on the Acura ranking after the MDX TypeS debuts this summer. The 25 speaker/22 channel audio should make a difference.
Also looking forward to where Audi ranks when you get more.
Absolutely totally agree. A couple of years back I booked a luxury class vehicle to be picked up upon my arrival. I reserved a Land Rover or what was suppose to be but I received a Volvo SUV instead. Stayed overnight before beginning my long drive to JAX from Charlotte the next morning. The ride quality was great but the Volvo sound system was awesome - even glorious.
The Swedes do love a good jam session. My 2017 V60 with the base stereo is close to my old 2006 S60 T5 except for the Pro Logic 2 surround sound and real low end that the S60 had. Rumor has it, the base systems go to 35Hz while the top line Dynaudio, Harman Kardon, and Bowers & Wilkins systems go to the full 20 Hz. What's more impressive is their base systems don't come with subwoofers. Just 6.75" or 7" woofers in the doors and tweeters. For comparison, Stellantis tops out around 50 Hz and Ford around 40Hz on the low end but they'll all hit 20kHz on the high end.
@@MarcelloTheBandit I loved the dynaudio system in my 08 volvo C70. Even with the top down on the highway, it was crystal clear and the bass was outstanding.
Jaguar premium sound with B & W system is impressive. I have a Mercedes CLS with premium sound and I still notice a significant improvement with the premium sound of the Jaguar XJ. Sound is so mellow.
My 2021 Tahoe Z71 with the Bose speakers, are phenomenal! I was surprised to see them down on the list.
Here's a question I'd love to have answered. When a brand like Kia or Hyundai boasts a 'Bose' or 'Harmen Kardon' premium stereo, the head unit doesn't differ between the trims. Is it Only speakers that 'Bose' is adding to the equation? Or is there something else actively attributing to better sound? Better wiring? Amps? Or is it simply upgraded speakers.
On our old 2016 nissan qashqai (we are in the 🇬🇧) getting the bose upgrade had the same head unit,bose speakers an amp and a sub.
the ' standard stereo didn't have bose on the speaker covers and didn't have the sub in the bootwell or amp under the drivers seat
It would be nice if you compared the base audio's too.
Have had the Jag Meridian in an F Type, a base Volvo in an XC70, a Dolby premium in a Volvo-farina C70 and the Bowers & Wilkins in a Volvo S60T8. I would rank the Bowers best with the Dolby a close second.
Acura TL tech package has built in subs with a Bose surround sound system and sounds CRAZY good