If you are new to the world of personal audio, you may look to compare 4-way vs 2-way speakers. After all, some of the best speakers can be configured into dual or even quad setups, especially in cars. So what are the benefits of each setup, and which is right for you?
Key Takeaways_
- When you refer to 2-way, 3-way, or 4-way speakers, you are referring to the number of audio drivers included with these types of speakers.
- 2-way speakers feature a woofer and a tweeter, while 4-way speakers feature a woofer, an extra tweeter, and mid-range speakers.
- 4-way speaker setups are relatively uncommon, primarily in luxury and commercial vehicles.
2-Way Speakers vs 4-Way
The primary difference here is the number of drivers included in speakers available for car owners, which can help you learn what size speakers are in your car. In the vast majority of cases, this refers exclusively to automobile speakers, so it will not alert you to the finest Bluetooth speakers under $300.
insider tip
Talk to an experienced car stereo professional to discuss upgrade options.
As you may have surmised, 2-way speakers include two drivers, 3-way speakers include three drivers, and so on.
Components
Simply put, 2-way speakers include a woofer and a tweeter, and 3-way speakers include a woofer, tweeter, and a mid-range element.
STAT: 2-way speakers have two separate, distinct frequency bands. One of which is the woofer which produces the lows. The other is the tweeter which produces higher frequency sounds. (source)
4-way speakers, also called quad-axial speakers, are the most robust, with a woofer, two tweeters, and a mid-range cone. It must be noted that most car speakers ship in 2-way or 3-way designs, with 4-way designs being relatively uncommon (though that is slowly changing.)
Sound Quality
The more components, the better the sound quality. In other words, 4-way speakers offer the most robust audio quality, with 3-way speakers close behind. Your standard car speakers (unlike the top 6.5 speakers) are 2-way and do just fine in most scenarios.
For a truly sublime listening experience, however, go for the added mid-range element of a 3-way speaker. Keep in mind that the difference will be in mid-range only, as both types include tweeters for high-range and woofers for that bassy low-range. 4-way speakers include two tweeters, for a truly robust high-range experience.
Cost
It goes without saying that 2-way speaker setups are the cheapest option here, followed by 3-way designs and, finally, 4-way setups. As a matter of fact, 4-way designs are extremely expensive and typically only found in luxury vehicles or those used for commercial applications. Your average car stereo system uses a 2-way setup.
