Midrange/Tweeter Mounting ProximityThe No. 1 question regarding high-frequency speaker placement is, "Where does the tweeter go, relative to the midrange?" It's a good idea to keep the midrange and tweeter close together. This minimizes problems such as comb filtering and other frequency response issues, instruments and vocals that seem to come from multiple locations, arrival time issues, etc. In general, separating the midrange and tweeter make it much more difficult to tune the system's overall sound quality response.
Also, just because an OEM tweeter is mounted in the A-pillar with the midrange lower doesn't mean this is the best location. While the highest frequencies seem to be high up above the dash, the overall sound will probably not be coherent across the audible frequency range, especially around the crossover frequency. In most cases, mounting the tweeter near the midrange in the door or kick panel areas will sound better with minimal effort than placing it in the A-pillar.
Sure, if you're using some serious processing power and have time to design the system, you can make it sound really good by separating the speakers. But we're talking about making systems sound good without making extensive vehicular modifications, plus thousands of dollars and many hours in the install bay.
ConclusionThese are just a few techniques, tips and guidelines to help make your system sound its very best. While it may not be possible to complete all of these things in every install, the more effort you put into it, the better your system will sound.
Blaupunkt GTc542$85
This set's multi-hole mounting is perfect for almost any vehicle. It rates at 180 watts maximum power. Regardless of the size, every set in this line retails for an affordable $84.95.
Gravity Audio GR-625C$135
This 6 11/42" component set measures in at 300 watts max power handling with a system response of 20Hz to 20 kHz. It includes 1"-aluminum dome tweeters and 12dB/octave crossovers.
Kicker DS600$180
A high-tech cone, heavy-duty voice coils, ribbed surround and reduced mounting depth mark the mids of this 6" set. It includes titanium-domed tweeters and a two-way crossover/protection network.
Phoenix Gold RSD 65cs$159.99
This model will be reviewed in a future issue of Car Audio
Eclipse SC6500$250
Only 2" deep, this 6 11/42" component set can be mounted in areas others can't go. Its crossover uses selected components for a dual second order network to transition from low-frequency driver to the tweeter, delivering a rich, musical sound
MA Audio MA629C $345
Using materials like neodymium, Kapton and carbon fiber, these featherweight speakers pack a heavyweight punch. The 2.25" mounting depth ensures an easy install in any speaker location. The crossover has biamp capability.
JVC CS-ARS650$280
Keeping SQ in mind, all speakers in the new Arsenal lineup have a sensitivity of 92dB. Other features include an in-line crossover, slim design, adapters for installation flexibility, and a hemp-fiber cone.
MTX TXC line$350 - $500
Sets in the user-friendly and easy-to-install TXC line include a 2-way, bi-ampable crossover network, 5-level tunable tweeter network, as well as 0-degree, 30-degree, and 60-degree off-axis woofer compensation.Titanium Power SPRCO65 $300