I'm looking for a set of component speakers to put in the doors that are about $100-150 on ebay. I've been looking at Polk Audio db6501, Infinity Kappa 60.7, and the Alpine Type R's. Is there any components that you would recommend to match up with the JL Audio 500/5 I'm planning to get. I'm not sure about a sub yet, so I would like a set of speakers with good bass and mid-range.

 

Audio is purely subjective. Meaning what sounds good to me might not sound good to you. If you can visit a local shop or two to hear some of your choices, that might help your decision making. Good luck and let us know what route you choose!

P.S. The front components anchor your sound stage...don't skimp on these speakers.

 

type R , infiniti are great , but referance aren't really that good... kappa and kappa perfects are better

 

First, I agree with the above that speaker choice really comes down to individual preferences, as they really do have different "sounds" and differ FAR more than differences among amps and head units.

That said, here are my experiences and preferences... I really like a/d/s speakers, which tend to have a smoother upper frequency response than many others (I find speakers such as MB Quart and JL Audio to have a harsh upper frequency). Others might call the a/d/s too laid back.

I had older Infinity Kappa components (the ones with a green cone) in a previous car which were pretty nice sounding, but I liked the a/d/s replacements better. From my experience, Polks tend to have a more present mid-range, but I feel it obscures the vocals a bit (ie sounds a bit muddy).

A general rule of thumb, which doesn't hold in all cases but will generally at the $150 and under price point: if you prefer a sharper, more detailed sound look for metal tweeters, whereas if you prefer a smoother, "less harsh" sound look for silk dome tweeters (or "textile").

this a/d/s set is $125 on ebay:

a/d/s 246ix ebay listing

 

I definitely a more smoother sound for the kind of music I listen to rather than sharper. Never heard of a/d/s but will look into it, especially if it comes with free shipping.

 

a/d/s were among the higher end of car audio manufacturers until they were taken over by Directed Electronics (DEI), which also acquired Orion and Precision Power.

I'm pretty sure that the 246ix on ebay are manufactured post DEI acquisition. They are still going to be very good sounding speakers, especially for $125. The "old school" a/d/s components were in the $500-800 range.