The standard audio system in a car often becomes a subject of controversy among owners, especially when it comes to models that were produced between 2004 and 2013. Owners ล koda Octavia A5 is no exception when faced with insufficient volume, lack of deep bass or distortion in the high frequencies. Simply replacing speakers with more powerful models may not give the expected result if you do not take into account the features of the standard wiring and amplifier.
Understanding the design of standard acoustics and the principles of their operation is the key to high-quality sound. You need to understand the types of speakers installed, their impedance and sensitivity before running to the store. Errors in the selection of components can lead to overheating of the amplifier or a complete lack of sound in a specific area of โโthe cabin.
## Features of the standard Octavia A5 speaker system
Factory equipment ล koda Octavia A5 was offered in several versions, which directly affected the sound quality and upgrade options. Basic versions were equipped with a simple system without an amplifier, where the signal from the radio was fed directly to the speakers. At the same time, more expensive configurations, such as Concert or Chorus, already had a built-in amplifier, which required a special approach when replacing.
The most common problem is connector incompatibility. Early models used specific pads that do not fit standard car speakers. You will have to either use adapters or cut the wires, which is not always desirable to preserve the aesthetic appearance and subsequent sale of the car.
It is important to consider that standard speakers often have a non-standard seating depth. If you decide to install powerful coaxial speakers with a large magnetic system, they may simply not fit into the door cards without modifying them or replacing them with thinner models.
โ ๏ธ Attention: Check the availability of the amplifier before purchasing new speakers! If your car has a stock amplifier, installing low impedance passive speakers may burn out the amplifier. Measure the speaker resistance with a multimeter before connecting.
## Types of speakers and their compatibility with the interior
To replace the front speakers in Octavia A5 the most commonly used components are 160mm or 165mm diameter. However, there is a catch here: in some modifications, the seat has a non-standard shape, requiring the use of spacer rings. Without them, the speakers may wobble or touch the door trim, causing unpleasant vibrations.
The rear shelf in most trim levels accepts speakers with a diameter of 130 mm or 160 mm. Depending on the year of manufacture and body type (liftback or station wagon Combi), dimensions may vary slightly. Station wagons often have deeper recesses, which allows the installation of speakers with a larger cone stroke.
165 mm - this is a standard size that fits in 90% of cases, but it is always better to measure with a caliper. If you see that the stock speaker has a diameter of 160 mm, but the 4 screw mount is located differently than the new purchase, you will need adapter rings.
- ๐ Front Stage: Normally 165mm, magnet depth check required.
- ๐ Rear Stage: Most often 130 mm or 160 mm on the rear shelf.
- ๐ Subwoofer: Not available in basic configurations, space under it in the trunk.
| Component | Speaker type | Size(mm) | Installation Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Front door | Component / Coaxial | 160-165 | Requires spacer rings made of plastic or plywood |
| Rear shelf | Coaxial | 130-160 | Depends on the body version (liftback/station wagon) |
| Front tweeter | Tweeter | 25-30 | Crash into pillar or dashboard |
| Steering column speaker | Tweeter | 60-75 | Often missing from basic versions |
- Component acoustics
- Coaxial acoustics
- Only replacement of standard ones
- I don't know yet
## Choosing high-quality acoustics for replacement
When choosing new speakers for Octavia A5 Do not chase the maximum power indicated on the box. Sensitivity is a much more important parameter, especially if you donโt plan to swap a regular radio for a powerful external one. Speakers with sensitivity above 90 dB will sound louder and more detailed at the same power.
Brands such as Hertz, Alpine or MorelThey offer great solutions, but their prices can be high. For a budget, but high-quality upgrade, models from Pioneer or JVC. The main thing is to pay attention to the material of the diffuser. Paper diffusers give a warm sound, and synthetic โ more sharp and clear.
You need to decide on the type of acoustics: coaxial or component. Coaxial speakers are easier to install and cheaper, as all elements are in one case. Component acoustics is divided into separate parts (RF, RF, RF), which allows you to place them in the optimal places of the cabin to create a wide sound scene.
โ ๏ธ Warning: Avoid buying speakers with a declared power of 100W or more if you have a regular radio! A regular amplifier wonโt give you that much power, and youโll simply overpay for features you canโt use.
- ๐ SensitivityLook for models from 90 dB for better volume.
- ๐ Impedance: 4 Ohms standard, don't put 2 Ohms without an external amplifier.
- ๐ Materials: Polypropylene diffusers are resistant to moisture in doors.
Before buying, remove the decorative speaker grille in the door and measure the depth of the magnet. If the new speaker is too strong, it can rest on the upholstery of the door when the car is moving.
## The process of dismantling and installing new speakers
Installing speakers in Octavia A5 requires care not to break the plastic door card locks. Dismantling begins with the removal of the handles of windows (if they are mechanical) or decorative plugs on the buttons of electric windows. There are mounting bolts underneath.
After unscrewing all visible fasteners, it is necessary to gently unfasten the locks around the perimeter of the door. It is better to use a special plastic spatula so as not to damage the paint and plastic. Disconnect the light connector and the window wiring, then remove the map.
โ๏ธ Preparation for the installation of the speaker
Inside the door you will see a regular speaker mounted on a metal or plastic grille. Often the standard speaker has a specific connector. You will need to either cut it and solder wires from the new speaker, or use a special adapter.
โ ๏ธ Warning: When laying wires through the rubber band between the door and the body, be extremely careful! Wires can rub against the metal and close on the body, which will lead to combustion of the fuse or short circuit.
Installation of the parser ring is mandatory if the standard grille is too narrow. The ring should be reliably fixed by screws so that during the operation of the speaker there is no rattling. The speaker is attached to the ring, not to the door itself, making it easier to replace.
The use of parser rings and high-quality adapters is the guarantee that the new speaker will work stably and will not create unnecessary vibrations in the door.
## Problems of the staff amplifier and how to solve them
In cars with factory amplifier (systems) Concert, Chorus) the signal is transmitted through a specific connector which may not have standard external speaker power wires. It often happens that after changing the speakers, the sound becomes quieter or distorted. This is due to the fact that the standard amplifier is designed for a certain load.
If you want to install powerful component acoustics, the best solution is to completely disconnect the standard amplifier and connect the new acoustics directly to the new head unit. This will require replacing the standard head unit with a modern 2DIN system with a good speaker output.
What if the sound becomes deaf after the speaker is replaced?
Often the problem is the wrong connection. Check if you have connected speakers through a standard amplifier that is not adapted to the new characteristics. Try to turn off the amplifier and give the signal directly.
In some cases, it helps to solder the wires inside the door card to remove unnecessary resistance. However, if you are not versed in electronics, it is better to entrust it to professionals. Errors in soldering can cause sound loss at certain frequencies.
Disabling the amplifier - This is a radical measure that frees you from the restrictions of the staff system, but requires a new head unit. If you're keeping the stock stereo, look for speakers with high sensitivity to compensate for the weak signal.
# Additional improvements to the sound system
A simple replacement of speakers gives an increase in sound quality, but for a true high, bass is often lacking. V Octavia A5 You can install an active subwoofer under the seat or in the trunk. This will require laying a separate power cable from the battery, which is a more challenging task.
Don't forget about sound insulation doors. The speakers are air-powered, and if the door is not sealed, the bass will leak into the cabin. Noise insulation not only improves sound, but also removes extraneous noise from the road.
- ๐ Noise insulation: Be sure for the front doors, improves bass.
- ๐ SubwooferActive under the seat is ideal for saving space.
- ๐ Vibration isolationReduces the vibration of the metal, removes rattles.
If you want to get the maximum effect, set acoustical MDF. They allow the speaker to move away from the metal surface, creating an acoustic camera, which significantly improves the quality of low frequencies.
Do not forget to treat the internal cavities of the doors with an anti-corrosion composition after installing noise insulation, since moisture can accumulate in hard-to-reach places.
FAQ: Answers to Frequent Questions
Do I need to change the head unit to install new speakers?
Not necessarily. If you pick up speakers with high sensitivity, a regular head unit can give a decent sound. However, for component acoustics and subwoofer replacement of the head unit is desirable.
What sizes of speakers fit in the front doors?
In most cases, speakers with a diameter of 160 mm or 165 mm are suitable. However, be sure to check the depth of the magnet so that it does not rest on the upholstery of the door.
How to distinguish a machine with an amplifier from a machine without it?
Look at the back shelf: if there is a grille with the inscription amplifier or you hear a characteristic hum when you turn on the radio, most likely, the amplifier is there. You can also find out by the VIN code from the dealer.
Can I install a subwoofer without replacing the tape?
Yes, you can connect an active subwoofer that has an integrated amplifier via a linear output (RCA) or via a high level input (High Level Input), if such a function is in the subwoofer.
Do I need noise insulation when changing speakers?
Noise insulation is not necessary, but highly desirable. It turns the door into a sealed case, which significantly improves the quality of the bass and removes the vibrations of the metal.