Do you love the roar of your Jeep Gladiator’s engine, but find the music inside a little… quiet? You’re not alone! Many Gladiator owners dream of bumping their favorite tunes on the trail or during their daily commute, only to be met with weak, tinny sound. It’s frustrating when the audio doesn’t match the awesome adventure your Jeep promises.
Choosing the perfect speaker upgrade can feel like navigating a maze. There are so many brands, sizes, and features to consider, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. You want speakers that sound great, fit your Gladiator perfectly, and don’t break the bank. But where do you even start?
Don’t worry! This guide is here to help. We’ll break down everything you need to know about upgrading your Jeep Gladiator’s speakers. You’ll learn how to pick the best sound for your ride, understand what makes a good speaker, and discover how to get that booming audio you’ve been craving. Get ready to transform your Gladiator into a rolling concert hall!
Our Top 5 Jeep Gladiator Speaker Upgrade Recommendations at a Glance
Top 5 Jeep Gladiator Speaker Upgrade Detailed Reviews
1. DS18 JL-SB6 Sound Bar Enclosure Upgrade with 6.5″ Neodymium Mid-Range and Tweeter Compatible with Jeep Wrangler JL/JLU
Rating: 8.7/10
Ready to crank up the tunes in your Jeep Wrangler JL/JLU or Gladiator JT? The DS18 JL-SB6 Sound Bar Enclosure Upgrade is here to transform your audio experience. This kit replaces your factory 4-inch speakers with powerful 6.5-inch neodymium mid-range speakers and 1-inch dome tweeters. You get a pair, one for the left and one for the right side, designed to fit seamlessly into your 2018-2023 models. DS18, known for top-notch Jeep audio gear, engineered this upgrade to deliver amazing sound without taking up extra space.
What We Like:
- Big Sound Upgrade: You go from small 4-inch factory speakers to impressive 6.5-inch speakers and tweeters.
- Built Tough: The enclosures are made from strong, injection-molded plastic that’s built to last on any adventure.
- Easy Installation: The kit includes everything you need, like tools, screws, and plug-and-play connectors, making setup a breeze.
- Sharp Looks: New, stylish grilles make your Jeep look even cooler while improving sound.
- Neodymium Power: These speakers use neodymium magnets for a powerful punch and clear sound.
What Could Be Improved:
- Requires Cutting: You will need to cut into your factory soundbar to install these.
- Speaker Depth Limit: The 2.5-inch speaker depth might limit some speaker choices if you decide to swap them out later.
If you’re looking to seriously boost your Jeep’s sound system, the DS18 JL-SB6 is a fantastic upgrade. Just be prepared for a little cutting during installation.
2. Cerwin Vega RVJP69OE for Jeep JL JT Gladiator 2018 and Up 6×9 Inch Overhead Speaker Kit
Rating: 9.2/10
Upgrade your Jeep’s sound system with the Cerwin Vega RVJP69OE 6″ x 9″ Overhead Speaker Kit. This kit is specifically made for Jeep JL and Gladiator models from 2018 and newer. It’s designed to give you awesome sound quality wherever you go.
What We Like:
- These speakers pack a punch with 300W of RMS power, making your music sound loud and clear.
- The full-range sound means you’ll hear all the details in your favorite songs, from deep bass to crisp highs.
- The overhead design fits perfectly in your Jeep, adding a cool look to your interior.
- Installation is straightforward, so you can enjoy better sound without a lot of hassle.
- Cerwin Vega is known for great audio, and these speakers live up to that reputation.
What Could Be Improved:
- While they offer great sound, some users might want even more bass options.
- The price point might be a bit high for budget-conscious buyers.
If you want to make your drives more enjoyable with powerful and clear audio, this Cerwin Vega speaker kit is a fantastic choice for your Jeep.
3. STINGER Jeep Wrangler JL (2018-23) Jeep Gladiator JT (2020-23) Front 6.5″ Speaker Pod Adapters with Tweeter Adapters
Rating: 9.4/10
Upgrade your Jeep Wrangler JL (2018-23) or Gladiator JT (2020-23) sound system with the STINGER Front 6.5″ Speaker Pod Adapters. This kit makes it super easy to add bigger, better speakers to your front dash. You get everything you need to install 6.5-inch speakers and tweeters right where your old ones were. This means you can enjoy clearer music and deeper bass without a lot of hassle.
What We Like:
- Easy Speaker Upgrade: Lets you install 6.5-inch speakers in your Jeep’s dash.
- Fits Your Jeep: Works with Jeep Wrangler JL (2018-2023) and Gladiator JT (2020-2023).
- Simple Installation: Comes with everything needed for a quick setup.
- Factory Tweeter Location: Adapters let you put new tweeters in the original spots for a clean look.
- Plug-and-Play Harnesses: Special wires connect directly to your Jeep’s factory plugs.
What Could Be Improved:
- Speaker Choice: The kit is designed for 6.5-inch speakers, so you can’t use other sizes without more adapters.
- Tweeter Size Limits: While it fits factory locations, very large aftermarket tweeters might not fit without modification.
This STINGER speaker pod adapter kit is a fantastic way to get the sound you want in your Jeep. It simplifies a common upgrade, making it accessible for most Jeep owners.
4. Alpine SPV-65-JLT 6.5″ Weather-Resistant Rear Soundbar Upgrade Kit for 2018–Up Jeep Wrangler and 2020–Up Jeep Gladiator
Rating: 9.3/10
Upgrade your Jeep’s sound with the Alpine SPV-65-JLT 6.5″ Weather-Resistant Rear Soundbar Upgrade Kit. This kit is designed specifically for 2018 and newer Jeep Wranglers and 2020 and newer Jeep Gladiators. It brings better sound to your rear passengers, making every drive more enjoyable.
What We Like:
- It has 6-1/2″ woofers and 1″ Teteron dome tweeters. This combination gives you clear and balanced sound.
- The kit includes speaker grilles and connectors made just for your Jeep. This makes installation easier.
- A cutting template is provided. This helps you cut the right holes for a perfect fit.
- It can handle up to 90 watts of power. This means your music will sound loud and clear.
- The soundbar is IP55 weather-resistant. It can handle rain and dust, so it’s built for adventure.
- It uses the factory bolt holes. This means less work to get it installed.
What Could Be Improved:
- Some modification is needed for installation. While it uses factory holes, you’ll still need to cut.
This Alpine soundbar upgrade kit is a fantastic way to boost your Jeep’s audio system. Enjoy your favorite music and podcasts with improved sound quality, even off-road.
5. SSV Works 2024-2025 Jeep® Wrangler JL/Gladiator JT Overhead 6.5in / 6.75″ Speaker Adapters for Upgrading to Aftermarket Speakers
Rating: 8.6/10
Ready to crank up the tunes in your 2024-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL or Gladiator JT? The SSV Works Overhead Speaker Adapters are your ticket to a serious audio upgrade. These adapters let you swap out your factory speakers for bigger, better aftermarket ones, making your off-road adventures sound way more awesome. They fit right into your Jeep’s overhead console, and the installation is super straightforward.
What We Like:
- Perfect fit for 2024-2025 Jeep Wrangler JL and Gladiator JT models.
- Built tough with injection molded ASA plastic, so they won’t break down in any weather.
- Designed to look like they came straight from the factory, with a clean finish.
- Easy installation means less time wrestling with wires and more time enjoying your music.
- Keeps your factory dome lights working, so you don’t lose that useful feature.
- Adapters accept common 6.5-inch or 6.75-inch aftermarket speakers.
What Could Be Improved:
- Speakers are not included, so you’ll need to buy those separately.
- While the fit is close, a tiny bit of trimming might be needed for some speakers.
If you’re serious about improving your Jeep’s sound system, these SSV Works speaker adapters are a smart and simple solution. Get ready for clearer sound and more powerful bass on your next ride.
Upgrade Your Jeep Gladiator’s Sound System: A Buyer’s Guide
Are you tired of the tinny sound coming from your Jeep Gladiator’s speakers? Do you dream of crystal-clear music and powerful bass on your off-road adventures? Upgrading your Gladiator’s speaker system is a fantastic way to transform your driving experience. This guide will help you choose the perfect speakers to make your Jeep roar with incredible sound.
Key Features to Look For
When you’re shopping for new speakers, keep these important features in mind:
- Size: Most Jeep Gladiators have standard speaker sizes in the doors and dash. Measure your existing speakers or check your owner’s manual to find out what will fit. Common sizes include 6.5 inches for door speakers and smaller sizes for dash speakers.
- Power Handling (RMS Wattage): This tells you how much power the speaker can handle continuously. Higher RMS wattage means the speaker can play louder without distorting. Match this to your head unit or amplifier’s power output for the best results.
- Sensitivity: This measures how loud a speaker plays with a given amount of power. Higher sensitivity (measured in decibels, dB) means the speaker is more efficient and will sound louder with less power. This is great if you’re not planning on adding an amplifier.
- Frequency Response: This shows the range of bass, mid-range, and treble sounds the speaker can reproduce. A wider frequency response means you’ll hear a fuller, richer sound.
- Impedance: This is the speaker’s resistance to electrical current, usually measured in ohms (Ω). Most car speakers are 4 ohms, but some aftermarket speakers might be 2 or 3 ohms. Make sure your head unit or amplifier can handle the impedance of your new speakers.
Important Materials
The materials used in speaker construction play a big role in sound quality.
- Cone Material:
- Polypropylene: This is a common and durable material. It offers good sound quality and is resistant to moisture and temperature changes, which is perfect for a Jeep.
- Paper: While often found in factory speakers, paper cones can offer a warm sound. However, they are more sensitive to moisture.
- Carbon Fiber or Composites: These advanced materials are lightweight and strong, offering excellent clarity and detail in the sound.
- Surround Material: The surround connects the cone to the speaker basket.
- Rubber: This is a popular choice because it’s flexible and durable, handling moisture well.
- Foam: Foam surrounds can offer great sound but can degrade over time, especially in harsh environments.
- Tweeter Material: Tweeters handle the high-frequency sounds.
- Silk or Soft Dome: These produce a smooth, natural treble.
- Metal (Aluminum, Titanium): These can offer brighter, more detailed highs.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Several things can make your speaker upgrade sound amazing or disappointing.
- Proper Installation: This is crucial! Speakers need to be sealed well in their mounting locations to prevent sound from escaping, which makes bass sound weak. Using foam gaskets or sound-deadening material around the speaker mounts helps a lot.
- Head Unit/Amplifier Power: Your existing stereo might not have enough power to drive new, more efficient speakers. If you’re getting high-quality speakers, consider upgrading your head unit or adding an amplifier for the best sound.
- Sound Deadening: Adding sound-deadening material to your Jeep’s doors and panels reduces road noise and rattles. This allows your new speakers to sound clearer and more powerful because you’re hearing more of the music and less of the outside world.
- Speaker Placement: While you can’t change the factory speaker locations easily, ensuring they are mounted securely and sealed properly is key.
User Experience and Use Cases
Upgrading your Jeep Gladiator speakers is all about enhancing your driving experience.
- Daily Driving: Enjoy your commute with music that sounds full and vibrant. Hear every note of your favorite songs with clarity.
- Off-Road Adventures: Take your tunes with you on the trail. Powerful speakers can cut through the noise of the engine and wind, making your trips more enjoyable.
- Road Trips: Long drives become much better with a premium sound system. Sing along to your playlist without straining to hear.
- Customization: Many aftermarket speakers come in different styles and colors, allowing you to match them to your Gladiator’s interior if you wish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What size are the factory speakers in a Jeep Gladiator?
A: Most Jeep Gladiators have 6.5-inch speakers in the front and rear doors. The dash may have smaller coaxial or component speakers.
Q: Do I need an amplifier for new Jeep Gladiator speakers?
A: Not always. If you choose speakers with high sensitivity and your factory head unit has decent power, you might be happy with the sound. However, an amplifier will give you more power and better sound quality.
Q: Can I install the speakers myself?
A: Yes, many people can install their own Jeep Gladiator speakers. You’ll need basic tools and some patience. There are many online guides and videos to help you.
Q: What is the difference between coaxial and component speakers?
A: Coaxial speakers have the tweeter mounted in the center of the woofer cone. Component speakers have separate woofers and tweeters, which often provide better sound imaging.
Q: How much does a Jeep Gladiator speaker upgrade cost?
A: Prices vary widely. You can find decent replacement speakers for around $100-$200 for a set. High-end speakers and amplifiers can cost $500 or much more.
Q: Will new speakers improve my bass?
A: Yes, aftermarket speakers generally have better cone materials and design, leading to improved bass response compared to factory speakers. Adding a subwoofer is the best way to get deep, powerful bass.
Q: What are the best brands for Jeep Gladiator speakers?
A: Popular and reputable brands include Kicker, Rockford Fosgate, JL Audio, Kenwood, and Pioneer. Many offer direct-fit options for Jeeps.
Q: Do I need to modify my Jeep Gladiator to install new speakers?
A: For most standard speaker sizes, no modification is needed. However, if you choose larger speakers or a different type, some minor modifications might be required.
Q: How long will new speakers last?
A: With proper installation and care, good quality aftermarket speakers can last for many years, often 5-10 years or even longer.
Q: Can I just replace the front speakers?
A: Yes, you can replace just the front speakers, but for the best overall sound experience, replacing all the speakers is recommended.
In conclusion, every product has unique features and benefits. We hope this review helps you decide if it meets your needs. An informed choice ensures the best experience.
If you have any questions or feedback, please share them in the comments. Your input helps everyone. Thank you for reading.
Hey there, My name is Joe Martin & I’m the author of OffroadersGuild.com. I’ve been hitting the dirt for a while now. I’ve been off-roading in all sorts of vehicles, from Jeeps to trucks and everything in between.
I’ve also built and modified a few off-road vehicles of my own, so I know what works and what doesn’t when it comes to upgrading and modifying off-road vehicles. I started this website to share my experience and help others get the most out of their off-roading adventures. Let’s hit the trails!