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))
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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).
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.
@@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.
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.
@@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
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
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.
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.
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
@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 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.
@@Dick-Cheese-4 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.
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.
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 !
@@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.
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
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.
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.
@@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?
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
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
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.
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
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!!
@@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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
@@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.
@@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..
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.
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
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.
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.
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
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
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.
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.
I had a s90 as a rental after my accident and i fell in love with the volvos interior quality and sound system. Never experienced such a high quality sound system in a car and now I value it so much lmao
Tbh my parents have a 2014 Honda Pilot touring and I can turn the volume all the way up with the bass boost and subwoofer all the way up and it still sounds so good
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.
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.
Putting Hyundai and “Genesis” over Volkswagen, INFINITI, Ford, and Chevrolet, and also putting Hyundai on the same tier as Mazda, Cadillac, BMW, Lincoln, and Tesla is insane..
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.
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.
If we're rating only average audio systems of each brand, it's no surprise that bmw places near mazda and hyundai, but compare BMW's logic7 audio system and we have a completely different story. For example logic7 in e60 outranks 90% of audio systems even today and the car was equipped with this system in 2003. And the 7-series with the same system sounds even better, so it all comes down to whether we are comparing average systems or the brands top tier audio systems. So far haven't heard a better system than logic7, but never actually been inside todays luxury car with a top tier speaker system. But I highly doubt that a mazda can have a better or even the same top tier audio system as a bmw, because the interior quality is also a factor how the speakers sounds, and mazda isn't the best at this game :D
Thanks for doin this rankin. So many car reviewers on TH-cam 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.
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
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 🤞🏾🤞🏾🤞🏾🤞🏾🤞🏾🤞🏾🤞🏾
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
Its true that if a speaker sounds good 10 years ago. It will sound good today. I would classify as an audiophile and when I got my 2005 S60R, I was blown away from the stock speakers. Thought I was gonna have to replace all the speakers but after adding a sub for the low end, the 17 year old system surprises many who listen. Go Volvo!
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
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.
I'm really confused by this ranking honestly. Revel, bowers and Wilkins, mark Levinson, lexicon, els 3d, and bermeister should be S tier. Not all vehicles with these systems are truly S class in my opinion.
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.
I have a few of these brands as personal vehicles, plus one not mentioned. 23 GLS 63,18 Range Rover Sport, 23 Dodge Ram, 22 BMW 540. Hands down the range rover has the best audio system of any vehicle available to the masses. The system in the Rolls Royce is the only thing that I would say is better. There is a reason they use the Range Rover in Carpool Karaoke. I would honestly put the Harmon/Kardon system in my RAM above the GLS. I do have the highest available system in the GLS. BMW definitely at the bottom, but I put after market speakers and a sub and it sounds fantastic now. Whatever Meridian is doing for Range Rover is amazing. I listen to music all day, in and out of the car. All of my vehicles, were purchased with the sound system being the number one on the list. Side note: I believe the C8 Bose system is not much different from Chevy's other vehicles but benefit from the sound dampening they put in when they moved the engine and the overall size of the vehicle
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.
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.
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.
So I've got a 2020 A-class with the Premium package, this includes the 'Mercedes premium speaker system', which is the 2nd tier speaker system, as the 'best' one they offer in the A-class, and most other Mercedes cars is the Burmester sound system. However, I, along with a forum of many others feel the 2nd tier system actually sounds better than the Burmester system, as it's a lot punchier, has really good low end, and still retains good mid and highs even when you crank the bass up. The Burmester system sounds very flat and lifeless in comparison, which when you're driving at 70mph with a little tyre and wind noise, makes it difficult to 'feel' the music
Definitely, I own a 2013 c300 and it doesn’t even have the upgraded sound package, but still sounds great. Also Volvos easily have the best ones, every single one I’ve been in sounds levels above any other car.
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!
Funny thing is my ‘07 CR-V sounds excellent 😂 usually the first thing someone says when entering my car for the first time. Upgraded sound can go a long way!
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.
@@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.
I just bought a DS4 with Focal Electra sound system. It sounds better than anything I’ve driven so far - significantly better than Mercedes or Volvo stock car audio systems.
I agree with the whole list, except for one. I used to work for Kia/Hyundai not long ago, and they’re pretty much the exact same audio systems. It really is just like Chevy to GMC essentially. They’re ok sound systems overall most of the time, but when talking about identical cars both companies make like the Sonata and K5, or Palisade to Telluride, they’re almost always the same thing.
@@gerardogonzalez1217 then he mentions that he couldn’t find an outstanding Kia sound system….the Stinger GT2 has a 750W 15 speaker Harman Kardon system that sounds amazing. It has more wattage than a 7 seater Telluride
I was in a car that had suede all around with sheep skin seats on a non premium sound system and it sounded soooo good I couldnt believe it. Thats when I realized acoustics are if not just as important,
Totally agree about Honda sound systems, its as if they couldnt care less about that area of the driving experience. I do hear the Bose systems in the latest Civic, Accord and CRV are pretty decent though, probably C-tier, maybe B depending on the car. I do agree about Mazda as I have a 2021 Mazda 3 turbo hatch as my daily. I've had louder systems in my cars (aftermarket headunit, speakers, wooofer and amp) but none that sound as good overall as the Bose in my Mazda...it even makes satellite radio tolerable.
New sound tests are going on DM Sound! Subscribe here! th-cam.com/channels/TcTr4MJKpi1Na82Yq7LXyQ.html
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 !
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.
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!
We own several Acuras… we love their sound systems as it feels like you’re in a movie theater.
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..
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.
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?
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
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).
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
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
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.
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.
It's virtually impossible to objectively quantify sound, especially in cars.
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.
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.
@@Dick-Cheese-4 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 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.
Tested Volvo, Lexus, Honda and Toyota, yup, agree a 100% with this ranking.
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 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
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.
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
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?
@@Skifftermadhi it's nothing really special honestly ..
@@Skifftermadhi 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.
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.
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!
@@JulezWinnfield Like a a woman
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!
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!
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
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.
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.
I'd say from personal experience, Acura's are s tier!
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.
Thank you Charlie, as an audiophile this is great!!
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!
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!
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.
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?
Agreed! A 2011 Hyundai Sonata with only 4 speakers sound as good if not better than a 2022 Honda Accord with 8 speakers.
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.
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 ❤️
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.
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
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
Pair Acura’s ELS 3D system with Apple Music’s lossless audio and it’s perfection
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.
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.
The Bang & Olufsen system I had in my Audi A5 from 2009 was the best one I’ve ever had. Next car I get will definitely have it
i have a 2013 audi a4 that had b&o as well and bro the sound system is insane they really know how to create such audio
As a Honda owner you’re completely right, the speakers are trash
Not unless you have an Acura with the ELS system
As an 09 acura owner it's still the same haha
The Bose 7 speaker sound system in the Renault is phenomenal. great sound.
which Renault? Clio?
Volvo really does have some of the best sound systems in their cars. Even the audio system in my 2013 c30 sounds incredible.
I had a s90 as a rental after my accident and i fell in love with the volvos interior quality and sound system. Never experienced such a high quality sound system in a car and now I value it so much lmao
Tbh my parents have a 2014 Honda Pilot touring and I can turn the volume all the way up with the bass boost and subwoofer all the way up and it still sounds so good
The premium Bose system in my wife’s Mazda CX-5 is amazing. It destroys the system in my ‘17 Camry SE.
I agree with you when it comes to Mercedes, even their free speakers sounds really crispy and good
I agree with you , the mercedes is great
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.
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.
Putting Hyundai and “Genesis” over Volkswagen, INFINITI, Ford, and Chevrolet, and also putting Hyundai on the same tier as Mazda, Cadillac, BMW, Lincoln, and Tesla is insane..
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.
Hey, I think my 2014 Honda CR-V (2 tweeters, 4 woofers, 1 subwoofer) sounds pretty good!
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.
about to buy a volvo s90 with every option avalible including the B&W so this list makes me happy
Really surprised that BMW is content to be so far behind their direct rivals in such a key area.
If we're rating only average audio systems of each brand, it's no surprise that bmw places near mazda and hyundai, but compare BMW's logic7 audio system and we have a completely different story. For example logic7 in e60 outranks 90% of audio systems even today and the car was equipped with this system in 2003. And the 7-series with the same system sounds even better, so it all comes down to whether we are comparing average systems or the brands top tier audio systems. So far haven't heard a better system than logic7, but never actually been inside todays luxury car with a top tier speaker system. But I highly doubt that a mazda can have a better or even the same top tier audio system as a bmw, because the interior quality is also a factor how the speakers sounds, and mazda isn't the best at this game :D
Thanks for doin this rankin. So many car reviewers on TH-cam 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.
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!
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.
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!
My Mazdas sound system is INSANE! it is one of the best soundsystems in a premium brand ever! Im so happy with my Bose.
I have a cx5 I LOVE the Bose as well!!
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 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
Agreed! Volvo makes the best stereos in the market hands down!
And the best seats
Its true that if a speaker sounds good 10 years ago. It will sound good today. I would classify as an audiophile and when I got my 2005 S60R, I was blown away from the stock speakers. Thought I was gonna have to replace all the speakers but after adding a sub for the low end, the 17 year old system surprises many who listen. Go Volvo!
Agreed. Nice car!
Like, REALLY. Volvo seems to make cars very well considering cost.
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
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.
We need a yearly update to ranking car sound systems, or at the very least a 2023 update!
Lincoln needs to be A tier that revel really shines
I'm really confused by this ranking honestly. Revel, bowers and Wilkins, mark Levinson, lexicon, els 3d, and bermeister should be S tier.
Not all vehicles with these systems are truly S class in my opinion.
Going from my old 2013 Lexus to 2017 Lexus IS200T. The sound is so amazing!
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.
I have a few of these brands as personal vehicles, plus one not mentioned. 23 GLS 63,18 Range Rover Sport, 23 Dodge Ram, 22 BMW 540. Hands down the range rover has the best audio system of any vehicle available to the masses. The system in the Rolls Royce is the only thing that I would say is better. There is a reason they use the Range Rover in Carpool Karaoke. I would honestly put the Harmon/Kardon system in my RAM above the GLS. I do have the highest available system in the GLS. BMW definitely at the bottom, but I put after market speakers and a sub and it sounds fantastic now. Whatever Meridian is doing for Range Rover is amazing. I listen to music all day, in and out of the car. All of my vehicles, were purchased with the sound system being the number one on the list. Side note: I believe the C8 Bose system is not much different from Chevy's other vehicles but benefit from the sound dampening they put in when they moved the engine and the overall size of the vehicle
I’ll say some nissans depending year have amazing bass, but I can’t say the same for Infiniti
then again, if the presence isn't there in mids or highs, may not be worth it.
I drive 15yr Volvo as my daily - aaand it has audio that i love ❤️
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!
For me BMW Bowers & Wilkins is the best in any car, it’s amazing
Most Kia’s are pretty decent but I have to say the telluride and stinger are excellent
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.
Bentley's 'naim' system Rolls Royce are super top tier.
Audi 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.
So I've got a 2020 A-class with the Premium package, this includes the 'Mercedes premium speaker system', which is the 2nd tier speaker system, as the 'best' one they offer in the A-class, and most other Mercedes cars is the Burmester sound system. However, I, along with a forum of many others feel the 2nd tier system actually sounds better than the Burmester system, as it's a lot punchier, has really good low end, and still retains good mid and highs even when you crank the bass up. The Burmester system sounds very flat and lifeless in comparison, which when you're driving at 70mph with a little tyre and wind noise, makes it difficult to 'feel' the music
Sorry but the Burmester in the higher range Mercedes‘ like an e class is simply perfect and no comparison to Mercedes‘ one system
We need an updated 2023 version of this since things have changed since 2021
Definitely not surprised that Volvo and MB are S tier.
Savagegeese does measured audio testing, and these two brands consistently are top performers.
Definitely, I own a 2013 c300 and it doesn’t even have the upgraded sound package, but still sounds great. Also Volvos easily have the best ones, every single one I’ve been in sounds levels above any other car.
Agreed.
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!
Day 2 of requesting an older volvo with premium audio or dynaudio
Funny thing is my ‘07 CR-V sounds excellent 😂 usually the first thing someone says when entering my car for the first time. Upgraded sound can go a long way!
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.
I just bought a DS4 with Focal Electra sound system. It sounds better than anything I’ve driven so far - significantly better than Mercedes or Volvo stock car audio systems.
I agree with the whole list, except for one. I used to work for Kia/Hyundai not long ago, and they’re pretty much the exact same audio systems. It really is just like Chevy to GMC essentially. They’re ok sound systems overall most of the time, but when talking about identical cars both companies make like the Sonata and K5, or Palisade to Telluride, they’re almost always the same thing.
That’s what I was thinking... they are pretty much the exact same thing so when he rated them differently he kinda lost me
@@gerardogonzalez1217 then he mentions that he couldn’t find an outstanding Kia sound system….the Stinger GT2 has a 750W 15 speaker Harman Kardon system that sounds amazing. It has more wattage than a 7 seater Telluride
I was in a car that had suede all around with sheep skin seats on a non premium sound system and it sounded soooo good I couldnt believe it. Thats when I realized acoustics are if not just as important,
I once drove a Tesla and let me tell you: The imaging is incredible for a car audio system (everything is just in one spot tho)
Have a model y sound system is one of the best
Totally agree about Honda sound systems, its as if they couldnt care less about that area of the driving experience. I do hear the Bose systems in the latest Civic, Accord and CRV are pretty decent though, probably C-tier, maybe B depending on the car. I do agree about Mazda as I have a 2021 Mazda 3 turbo hatch as my daily. I've had louder systems in my cars (aftermarket headunit, speakers, wooofer and amp) but none that sound as good overall as the Bose in my Mazda...it even makes satellite radio tolerable.