Kia Sorento Car Audio Review: Speaker Upgrade Cost

Kia Sorento Krell Audio: Is a Speaker Upgrade Worth It?

Many Kia Sorento owners who opt for the premium Krell audio package find themselves wishing for better sound quality. If you're among them and considering a speaker upgrade, this review details a common solution: replacing the factory speakers. This modification can significantly enhance your listening experience, even with the factory amplifier.

Why Upgrade Your Sorento's Factory Speakers?

While the Krell system in the Kia Sorento offers an improvement over base audio, the factory speakers and door panel construction can still limit sound fidelity. You might notice unwanted vibrations or a lack of clarity, especially from the door panels. These issues can be addressed through targeted sound deadening and speaker replacement. The goal is to create a more solid enclosure for the new speakers, reducing resonance and allowing them to perform at their best.

The AVI G1 Speaker Upgrade and Installation Process

This installation involved replacing the stock speakers with AVI G1 units. The process begins with carefully removing the factory door panels. The original speakers are then detached, and a custom-made, durable birch wood adapter is used to securely mount the new AVI G1 speakers. Proper alignment and a solid mounting solution are crucial for optimal sound reproduction.

Installation Process:

1. Remove factory door panels and stock speakers.
2. Install a custom birch wood adapter for secure speaker mounting.
3. Mount the new AVI G1 speakers onto the adapter.
4. Apply sound deadening material to the door panel and metal frame.
5. Install acoustic foam (baffle foam) around the speaker to seal gaps.
6. Reassemble the door panel and test the audio system.

The Importance of Sound Deadening and Baffle Foam

A critical part of any car audio upgrade is sound deadening and the use of baffle foam. Applying sound deadening material, such as pure analog mats, to the entire door structure significantly reduces road noise and panel vibrations. Baffle foam, installed between the speaker and the door trim, seals any gaps. This prevents sound leakage, which degrades audio quality, and minimizes the possibility of rattles and buzzes. This step is akin to creating a custom speaker enclosure within your door, maximizing the performance of your new speakers.

Finishing Touches and Sound Tuning

After the speaker installation and sound deadening are complete, the door panels are meticulously reassembled to their original condition. The final step involves working with the customer to fine-tune the audio settings. This includes adjusting the treble, midrange, and bass frequencies to ensure the customer can clearly hear and appreciate the improvements in sound quality. The typical duration for this comprehensive speaker upgrade and sound deadening process on a Kia Sorento is around 3 to 4 hours, though this can vary based on specific vehicle conditions and any additional customization requested.

Cost and Durability Considerations

The cost for a Kia Sorento speaker upgrade, including sound deadening, generally starts in the low 300,000 KRW range (approximately $250 USD, though exchange rates vary). The final price depends on the specific speaker brand and model chosen, as well as the extent of the sound deadening applied. While the speakers themselves have a lifespan typically exceeding 5 years depending on usage, the sound deadening and installation quality contribute to long-term durability by preventing rattles and ensuring optimal speaker performance over time.