Cars with Good Sound Systems: The Ultimate Guide for Audiophiles

Did you know that most people spend almost 11 hours a week commuting? That’s equivalent to spending roughly 2-4 weeks in the car each year! During this time, most of us listen to more music on the road than we do at home. So why do we usually overlook the quality of a car’s audio system during the buying process? In this blog, we’ll explore the best cars with good sound systems that will help you pick the perfect ride.

Car audio is one of the few safe and legal sources of entertainment on the road. On long drives, listening to music or podcasts feels so natural, doesn’t it? While most cars come with sound systems that are just OK, a select few cars with amazing sound systems can make every drive a truly magical experience. Without further delay, let’s explore the best cars with even better audio systems right away!

Why Does the Sound System Matter in Cars?

Unless you’re a true audiophile—or even if you are—you’ve probably never bought a car solely for its sound system. In fact, most people buy cars without checking out the sound system at all!

This is especially common if they’ve never experienced the difference an incredible car audio system can make.

Unlike premium features like heated seats and a sunroof, a car driver will use the speaker system almost every single time they drive. Good car audio doesn’t just keep you entertained; it helps create lasting memories and takes away the fatigue of sitting in heavy traffic or driving on a noisy expressway.

What Does a Good Car Sound System Sound Like?

So, what makes a sound system actually sound good? Some might say that the best auto sound system allows you to listen to music ‘the way the artist intended’. We believe that people have their own likes and preferences in music, which may not necessarily align with the artist’s intentions. After all, music is so highly subjective that everyone assesses ‘good audio’ by different standards.

Here are some criteria we use to distinguish the best sounding car stereo systems from the not-so-great-ones:

• Clarity: Are the highs, mids, and lows separated and defined?
• Dynamics: Does the sound have enough confidence and punch?
• Tonality: Concentrate on the harmonics and ‘feel’ of the sound. Does the bass feel rich, the mids feel engaging, and so on?

The Key Features of High-Quality Car Audio

A vehicle music system has three major components.

• The first is the head unit, also called the car stereo; it helps you control what you listen to as well as how it sounds.

• Then there’s the amplifier. The amp modifies the music from the head unit and feeds it to the speakers. It powers up the sound so you can hear the music from your speakers.

• Finally, we have the speakers. There are different types of speakers, like component or coaxial speakers. Speakers use the electrical signals that the amplifier sends them and convert them into sound waves that we can actually hear.

Sound quality, balance, and bass response are some of the vital components of high-quality audio. Quality sound will not sound murky, compressed, or disharmonious. The best car audio speakers will maintain a balance across all frequencies for a harmonious listening experience.

Sound System Types: A Brief Overview

Standard:

A stock or standard sound system is the basic music system that comes with your car. This system’s price is already included in your MSRP, so you don’t pay extra for it.

Standard or stock audio systems are fitted onto more affordable models. Interestingly, most stock standard systems will never match up to the performance delivered by aftermarket car sound systems.

Premium:

A premium OEM (original equipment manufacturer) system is usually developed by an audio or electronics company rather than by the car manufacturers themselves.

These systems don’t come standard on most car models and require an optional upgrade that costs upwards of $1,000. For an audiophile, this upgrade is usually always worth it, as the premium system sounds much better than the standard one.

A premium sound system may sometimes offer better sound quality than aftermarket options, as the speakers are placed strategically and tuning is adjusted to the car’s dimensions.

Aftermarket:

Back when car audio wasn’t as advanced as it is today, you’d find stock sound systems to be severely lacking. If you cared about sound quality at all, the only option was to replace the classic car stereo with aftermarket full-car sound system packages.

To most people, a Lexus with Mark Levinson audio may sound better than a Toyota with an aftermarket Pioneer Bluetooth car stereo, but it doesn’t matter if you prefer the convenience and lower price of the aftermarket setup.

Universally, there isn’t a ‘best brand’ for aftermarket car audio—it depends on your preferences, goals (e.g., loudness vs. sound quality), and budget, of course. For a basic upgrade, get a set of component speakers for the front and rear coaxials, and use a 4-channel amp to power both components and a subwoofer.

You can buy aftermarket options from budget-friendly brands like Pioneer car stereo, Alpine head units, etc. If you don’t want to go through the trouble of installing aftermarket components, a good portable car stereo should do the trick.

Top Cars with Exceptional Sound Systems

The following is a list of cars with the best car stereo systems. Most of these cars support Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and Apple Play car stereo settings.

Volvo: Bowers & Wilkins Audio

Volvo’s Bowers & Wilkins Premium Sound System makes them some of the most affordable cars with the best car sound system. The Volvo XC90 features a 19-speaker Bowers & Wilkins sound system powered by a 12-channel amplifier, an open-air subwoofer, and a dashboard-mounted tweeter.

This Bluetooth car stereo system delivers a harmonious, spacious, and distortion-free audio experience with deep bass and a clean, up-front soundstage. With its unparalleled clarity, clean bass, and high-frequency detail, it outperforms competitors like Audi’s B&O and Lexus’ Mark Levinson. Though the upgrade costs about $3,200 and is limited to higher trims, we consider it well worth the price.

Audi: Bang & Olufsen Audio

The flagship Audi A8 features a 1,920-watt Bang & Olufsen 3D Advanced Sound System that includes 23 high-quality speakers, active tweeters that rise from the dashboard, and advanced noise compensation technology.

The 3D Advanced Sound System is also available as a $5,900 upgrade on the Audi S8, which is a sportier and more luxurious alternative to the A8. The B&O systems in Audi vehicles score points for their 3D sound, ICE power amplification, and customized speaker placement.

Audi offers B&O systems on entry-level models as well. The A3 is an excellent pick for an affordable luxury car with a great sound system. The B&O system is included in the Technology package upgrade on the Audi A3 Premium Plus and costs more than $3,400.

Cadillac: AKG Audio

The Cadillac Escalade’s 36-speaker AKG Studio Reference system features speakers placed in unique locations, such as the sun visors, headrests, and headliner. Also included are volume control for each passenger, three amplifiers, as well as front and rear subwoofers for that clear yet powerful sound. You can switch between stereo and immersive 3D modes for different listening experiences.

Getting the 36-speaker AKG sound system requires you to pay at least $28,800 more on the Escalade so you can upgrade to either the Premium Luxury Platinum, Sport Platinum, or the V trim level. Hey, if you have even more cash to spare, the hand-built 2024 Cadillac Celestiq costs $340,000 and will feature an upgraded 38-speaker AKG system.

Land Rover: Meridian

All models by Jaguar Land Rover feature sound by UK-based Meridian. Base Range Rover models come with a 14-speaker Meridian Sound System. Higher trims offer up to three upgrade options.

The top-of-the-line Meridian Signature Sound System includes 34 speakers, a dual-channel subwoofer, and a 1,600-watt amplifier. Alongside advanced technologies like Meridian Trifield 3D and Cabin Correction, DSP and ANC contribute to providing a rich and clear sound quality. 

This system provides an audiophile-grade soundstage with smooth, detailed audio, tuneful bass, and an ultra-quiet cabin. The upgrade to the Range Rover Autobiography with Signature Sound System costs at least $33,700 more than the base Range Rover.

Lexus: Mark Levinson Audio

Mark Levinson systems have been a signature feature of Lexus luxury vehicles since 2001. They provide tight bass, impressive clarity, and 3D surround sound that compliments the car’s signature smooth and refined ride.

The Lexus LC 500 features the Mark Levinson Reference Surround Sound system, which offers exceptional clarity and superior audio reproduction. Interestingly, the system includes a CD player- relevant because CDs usually provide higher sound quality than compressed MP3 files.

Meanwhile, the LS 500 offers a 2,400-watt Quantum Logic Immersion Reference Surround Sound that delivers immersive, concert-like audio with powerful bass and impressive clarity. Upgrading to the Mark Levinson Premium Audio Package in models like the LS costs $1,940.

BMW: Harman Kardon

The BMW 5 Series comes with the optional Harman Kardon Surround Sound system that includes 18 speakers. This system’s standout feature is its seven 25mm aluminum tweeters that aid in producing exceptional clarity in sound.

Meanwhile, the BMW iX has 18 strategically positioned speakers, including four in the head restraints. The system features four bass speakers, including two subwoofers under the rear seats that add richness and that deep, booming bass we all love.

The BMW iX’s sound system has excellent sound clarity and spatial depth. We’d recommend turning up the music, as you can’t fully appreciate this system on lower volumes!

Lincoln: Revel

The Lincoln MKX Black Label AWD features a 19-speaker Revel Ultima Audio System, which costs $4,400 with a Luxury Package upgrade or comes standard on the Black Label trim. Revel is a high-end audio brand by Harman.

This system offers an open and clear sound profile. It allows you to hear intricate musical details across the frequency spectrum. It excels in delivering deep bass, dynamic leading-edge impact, and transparent mids and highs. The Revel Ultima’s wide soundstage and exceptional clarity rival high-end car audio systems like Naim and Meridian.

The standard Revel system includes 13–14 speakers, while upgrading to the Revel Ultima increases the speaker count to 19, 20, or even 28 in models like the Aviator. Features include center console tweeters, door speakers, and subwoofers for concert-quality sound. In the Aviator Reserve trim, the Revel Ultima can be added via the Luxury Package, which costs $10,250.

Mercedes-Benz: Burmester Audio

The Burmester system is available across Mercedes’ lineup. While lower-priced models get the 15-speaker system with 3D surround sound, the upgraded 4D system in the EQE SUV comes with Dolby Atmos. It offers clear, precise, and balanced audio with enhanced sound clarity.

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class S680 also features the Burmester 4D High-End Surround Sound System with 31 speakers and 1,750 watts of power. Plus, there are two FrontBass subwoofers under the front seats coupled with seat-integrated exciters so that you don’t just hear the bass; you actually ‘feel’ it.

Priced at $6,800 as an upgrade, this Burmester system offers exceptional audio clarity and a wide, immersive soundstage. Features like ambient lighting and rotating speaker grilles only add to the Burmester sound system’s premium appeal.

Acura MDX: Panasonic ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio

The Acura MDX Type S with its 16-speaker ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System is undoubtedly a top contender for the best luxury car audio system. This system was tuned by Grammy-winning producer Elliot Scheiner and has been designed to replicate a studio-like audio experience.

The MDX Type S Advance goes a step further with the impressive ELS Studio 3D Signature Edition. This sound system comes with 25 speakers, including high-fidelity carbon speakers, overhead sound, and 1,000 watts of power.

Acura’s ELS system provides a balanced audio experience and ‘3D sound’ thanks to its precise speaker design and placement. Its limitations include reduced bass performance and loss of clarity at high volumes.

Jeep: McIntosh

Jeep uses McIntosh premium sound systems in their Wagoneer, Grand Wagoneer, and Grand Cherokee models. The lower-end MX950 system features 19 speakers and 950 watts.

The Grand Wagoneer gets the more advanced MX1375 reference system. With 23 speakers and an impressive 1,375 watts of power, this McIntosh system uses adaptive 3D surround processing and Power Guard technology to deliver high-quality sound even at high volumes. We recommend this system for its exceptional clarity and unique design.

The McIntosh system is available in select models, with the 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee Overland offering it as an optional upgrade for $2,505.

The Top 5 Car Sound System Brands

Here are the best car audio brands that are renowned for their quality, technology, designs, and innovative approach to car audio.

Bowers & Wilkins:

• Bowers & Wilkins (B&W) was founded by World War II veterans John Bowers and Roy Wilkins in Worthing, England, in 1946.  
• Known for producing high-end speakers with clear and precise sound quality.  
• Entered the automotive industry in 2007 with the standard sound system on the Jaguar XKR.  
• Current automotive partners include Volvo, Polestar, BMW, and McLaren.

Bang & Olufsen (B&O):

• Bang & Olufsen (B&O) is a Danish high-end consumer electronics company.  
• Known for innovative design and premium audio products.  
• Focuses on producing high-fidelity sound, uninfluenced by technological limitations.  
• Uses premium materials like aluminum, smoked oak wood, and stainless steel in product design.  
• Collaborates with luxury car brands, including Audi, Bentley, BMW, Aston Martin, and Mercedes-Benz AMG, to deliver premium in-car audio systems.

Burmester:

• Burmester Audiosysteme GmbH is a German manufacturer specializing in high-end audio components.
• Entered the automotive industry in 2005 by developing a sound system for the Bugatti Veyron.
• Partnered with Porsche and Mercedes-Benz in 2009 to provide optional sound systems for the Panamera and S-Class models.
• Offers premium in-car sound systems for high-end vehicles, including:

A 30-speaker, 1,750-watt system for the Mercedes-Benz S500 4Matic ($6,800).

A 21-speaker upgrade for the Porsche Cayenne Turbo E-Hybrid ($5,800).

Harman Kardon:

• Harman International is an independent subsidiary of Samsung specializing in sound systems.
• Operates under various sub-brands, including Harman Kardon, JBL, Mark Levinson, Infinity, and Revel.
• Provides customized audio systems tailored to a car’s interior acoustics using DSP (Digital Signal Processing) for optimal sound quality.
• Harman Kardon began collaborating with BMW in the 1990s, a partnership that continues today.

Bose:

• Bose Corporation is an American manufacturing company established in 1964 that sells audio equipment, specifically home speakers and automobile audio equipment.
• Design products that appeal to the listener’s perception instead of focusing on audio system measurement techniques.
• The highly popular Bose Wave music system was a home audio system that was first introduced in 1984.
• Began its automotive audio journey by creating the OEM system for the 1983 Cadillac Seville.

Factors Affecting Top-Rated Car Audio Systems

Number and Placement of Speakers:

The placement, number, and orientation of car speakers are the number 1 factors that affect sound quality. The goal is to create a wide, three-dimensional ‘soundstage’ that feels like it’s floating above the dashboard. The ideal soundstage should allow you to hear the instruments and vocals as if a band is performing directly in front of you!

Creating a balanced soundstage in a car requires careful speaker alignment and positioning and soundproofing the doors and interiors. Some manufacturers, like Mercedes-Benz, strategically position speakers throughout the vehicle so that the music is crystal clear no matter where you’re sitting.

Material and Construction of Speakers:

The materials used in a speaker’s construction directly impact the quality of the sound it produces. A sound system for car use has to be built with durable yet high-quality materials to prevent it from degrading over time.

• Woofers: These are commonly made from polypropylene (durable with good bass), paper (lively and bright but moisture-sensitive), or woven fabrics like aramid fiber (rigid, durable, and well-rounded tonal qualities)
• Tweeters: These may be constructed from soft materials like silk or synthetic films to produce smooth sounds or harder materials like metal to create bright, crisp highs.

• Surrounds: The material surrounding the woofer cone is typically rubber (durable with better sound) or foam (less durable but more affordable).

A car manufacturer may use the highest-grade materials in a speaker system, but poor installation practices like gaps or poor insulation can interfere with the sound quality.

Amplification System Characteristics

Modern car audio systems usually feature multiple speakers and amplifiers paired to advanced sound control software. Ample, clean power from an amplifier is a must-have. After all, even the best speakers can sound poor if underpowered!

The main characteristics of a good amp include a wide frequency range, timbral accuracy for natural sound reproduction, powerful dynamics for impactful transients, and last but not least, sufficient headroom to handle road noise without strain.

Guide to Improving How Your Car’s Audio System Sounds

Equalizer Settings:

Does your car’s sound system sound a bit… off? Equalizer (EQ) settings can help you achieve a balanced sound and customize your music to your personal preferences. Here are a few tips to get your EQ settings to hit that sweet sound spot:

1. Check Balance: Listen for an even blend of bass, mid-range, and treble. Adjust if certain frequencies dominate or feel absent.
2. EQ Presets: Test presets like “bass booster” or “sound booster” to explore improvements. Use bass, treble, and mid-range controls for finer adjustments.

• System-Specific Adjustments: EQ settings vary by car and audio system. Set EQ to match your listening preferences, as this is what you’ll use most often.

Digital Signal Processing (DSP):

Digital signal processing (DSP) technology allows precise manipulation of audio signals to improve sound quality. DSP is a slightly technical concept, so bear with us here. Most high-end vehicle stereo systems come with DSP, but most affordable cars don’t. You can install a DSP yourself, but we’d recommend professional help if you’re a complete beginner.

Here’s what DSP does, in a nutshell:

• DSP improves individual speaker performance, manages stereo sound, and prevents interference between front and rear speakers
• DSP enhances sound through equalization, crossover filters, level controls, and cancellation management tools like delay and phase processing.
• DSP systems are configured via computer-based interfaces and allow repeatable and predictable sound modifications.
• Processors with sufficient memory can store multiple presets, such as calibrations for solo driving, multi-passenger setups, or settings that protect speakers at high volumes.
• Equalizers in DSP systems can compensate for vehicle acoustics and enhance multi-speaker setups.

Fade and Balance Controls:

You can fine-tune fade and balance controls on your car’s audio system to achieve a pleasing soundstage with depth and a natural front-focused audio experience.

1. Fade Control

Fade control adjusts sound distribution between front and rear speakers.

• First, turn the fade control all the way to the front so that sound is only coming from the front speakers
• After isolating the sound, adjust the left-right balance to your preference (bass, treble, and overall sound balance)
• Repeat the process for the rear speakers.

2. Balance Control

Balance control adjusts sound distribution between left and right speakers and ensures equal sound levels across the vehicle to create a more cohesive listening experience.

• Ensure the balance is set to your preference for both front and rear speakers.
• If the balance differs between the front and rear, find a compromise for the best overall balance
• If required, adjust the rear balance slightly lower than the front for a natural and consistent sound.

3. Tone Adjustment (Optional)

• If your receiver allows tone adjustments for the front and rear speakers, slightly reduce the treble on the rear speakers.
• This makes the music sound like it’s coming from the front, even at higher volumes.

Conclusion:

Cars may be the most impractical place to listen to music. But they also provide one of the best listening environments. Just thinking about a long road trip with the music blasting makes us feel nostalgic. In a car, you can turn the music all the way up and you don’t have to care about facing judgment from others for your slightly questionable song choices. Listening to music in the car is fun. That’s what makes cars with good sound systems all the more important.

To us, the best car audio systems perfectly balance three important parts of music: clarity, dynamics, and tonality. They offer an immersive audio experience and provide a clear yet unique and customizable sound. A great car sound system will make the music feel fluid, rich, and engaging. And of course, good music will make driving a lot more fun!

Frequently Asked Questions ( FAQs)