Factory speakers sound better than Polks. Why?

[TWheels10]

I’ve installed polk mm652s in my 2022 Audi A5. The result is disappointing.

After installing a polk in the front passenger door, I compared it to the factory speaker in the driver’s door. The factory speaker is louder and has better bass response. (The system is a basic factory system. It is not B&O.)

Why would this be? I’ve switched the pos and neg on the polks several times in case I crossed the polarity - each time it sounds the same. Any help is appreciated.

Click to read more...

 

[Jimi77 Premium Member]

The OEM speakers were probably lower ohm, lower power handling, high QTS, high efficiency. The Polks should sound better if you add amplifier to the system.

 

[1aespinoza Premium Member]

Why would this be?

The OEM speakers were probably lower ohm, lower power handling, high QTS, high efficiency. The Polks should sound better if you add amplifier to the system.

To add to Jimi77's response, the OEM amp's eq curve is optimized for the OEM speakers.

 

[maylar 10+ year member]

In my Buick the factory speakers were installed in plastic enclosures within the front doors. Essentially, sealed enclosures tuned for the factory speakers. Aftermarket speakers sounded like crap. I had to do serious mods to the doors to make it all work. I hope this isn't your problem.

 

[Jimi77 Premium Member]

Those polks are also coaxial and may not be receiving a full range signal.

 

[AnthonyO 10+ year member]

These are your friend

Stinger Roadkill RKFR6 FAST Rings

6-piece foam baffle kit — enhance the sound of your new 6", 6-1/2", or 6-3/4" speakers

www.crutchfield.com

 

[Bass911 10+ year member]

A lot of luxury cars are set up for the doors to only play bass and for the dash speakers to play vocals. I don't know if this applies to you. I have a Lexus and Infiniti and both are set up that way, but I'm running my own amps.