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Upgrading the audio in your Subaru Forester can make everyday drives more enjoyable and improve clarity at varied volume levels. Choosing the right 6×8 speaker matters because fitment, power handling, and mounting depth all affect how the speakers perform and how straightforward the install will be. This guide covers seven shortlisted 6×8 speaker options suited to the Forester and explains the practical criteria we used to evaluate them. Read on to see which features matter most for sound quality, durability, and a clean installation.
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Top Picks at a Glance
| Best overall The best all-around choice for most situations | ORION Cobalt CM6854 6×8 Midrange Bullet Loudspeakers (Pair) |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | Pioneer A-Series MAX TS-A683FH 6×8 2-Way Car Speakers (Pair) |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | Kicker KS-Series 6×8 Coaxial Car Speakers (Pair) |  |
| Best budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | Hifonics ZS5768CX 5×7/6×8 Coaxial Car Speakers (Pair, 4-Ohm) |  |
| Highest Rated A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | Kenwood KFC-C6866S 6×8 2-Way Car Speakers (Pair) |  |
| Most popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | JBL Club 8620 5×7/6×8 2-Way Coaxial Car Speaker Pair |  |
| Best Seller A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | Alphasonik AS268P 6×8-inch 3-Way Car Speakers (Pair x2) |  |
1. ORION Cobalt CM6854 6×8 Midrange Bullet Loudspeakers (Pair)
| Impedance | 4 Ohms |
|---|---|
| Power (RMS) | 250W |
| Power (Max) | 1000W |
| Sensitivity | 92 dB |
| Speaker Type | Midrange Bullet |
The ORION Cobalt CM6854 are 6×8 midrange loudspeakers designed to lift a factory sound system with loud, clear mids and extended highs. They use a bullet tweeter design and a 1.5" high-temperature voice coil to deliver a claimed 250W RMS (1000W max) and an efficiency around 92 dB, so they play loud without needing extreme amp power. Typical use is as direct replacements or upgrades in vehicle mid/door locations where you want more presence and clarity for vocals and instruments. Practical benefits include strong output for open-roof or noisy cabin conditions and compatibility with common 4 ohm factory amplifiers. Important limitations are the large magnet and mounting depth that can require adapter plates or extra clearance during installation in some Forester door pockets, and they may benefit from an external amplifier to reach their best linear performance. Expect excellent loudness and midrange detail but plan for fitment checks and possible mounting hardware for a clean installation in a Subaru Forester.
Best for: A balanced all-round buyer who wants a substantial, musical upgrade to a Forester's factory sound without committing to a full component overhaul and values louder, clearer midrange for everyday listening.
Less Ideal for: Not a good choice for someone seeking a flawless drop-in fit with zero modification or for buyers who need moisture-rated speakers for exposed mount locations.
- High continuous power handling (250W RMS) for louder, cleaner midrange at high volumes.
- Bullet tweeter design extends high-end clarity while preserving midrange presence.
- Relatively high sensitivity (~92 dB) makes them easier to drive from factory head units or modest amps.
- Pair includes midrange speakers and manual for straightforward replacement.
- Large magnet and relatively deep mounting depth can cause fitment issues in some door locations without adapters.
- Not waterproof, so they need protection if installed in exposed or damp locations.
- Will perform best with amplification to avoid pushing factory head units to distortion.
Verdict: If you want louder, clearer midrange in your Subaru Forester and can accommodate the speaker's magnet and mounting depth, the CM6854 delivers strong performance for a balanced upgrade.
2. Pioneer A-Series MAX TS-A683FH 6×8 2-Way Car Speakers (Pair)
| Max power handling | 370 W |
|---|---|
| Continuous power handling (RMS) | 85 W |
| Frequency response | 34 Hz – 49 kHz |
| Sensitivity | 90 dB |
The Pioneer TS-A683FH 6×8 2-way speakers are a high-output, factory-replacement style coaxial pair built to lift a vehicle's factory audio without adding a separate amplifier. They handle up to 370 watts peak (85 watts RMS) and use separate drivers for highs and mids to deliver clearer vocals and tighter treble while increasing low-end presence compared with many stock units. Typical use is a direct speaker swap into 6×8 openings with standard wiring and minor mounting adjustments; buyers often pair them with door damping to control panel vibration once levels are raised. Notable features include a wide frequency response (34 Hz to 49 kHz) and 90 dB sensitivity, which together make them sound loud and detailed from a head unit alone. The practical benefit is noticeably fuller, clearer sound without a big install project or external amp. Expect some door rattle at high volumes if the vehicle lacks damping and remember these are coaxials, so component-level imaging and extreme SPL performance are limited compared with a dedicated component system or powered setup.
Best for: Performance-oriented Forester owners who want a significant, no-amp upgrade to factory sound and prefer louder, more detailed playback from the factory head unit.
Less Ideal for: Audiophiles seeking the ultimate soundstage or users planning a high-power component and amplifier system should consider component speakers or a powered setup instead.
- High peak and continuous power handling for louder, dynamic playback
- Wide frequency response for extended bass and clear highs
- 90 dB sensitivity makes them perform well with factory head units
- Coaxial 2-way design simplifies installation as a single-piece replacement
- May induce door or panel vibration at high volumes without added damping
- Not a substitute for a dedicated component system if you want precise sound staging
Verdict: A straightforward 6×8 upgrade that delivers louder, clearer, and fuller sound from a factory head unit without needing an external amplifier.
3. Kicker KS-Series 6×8 Coaxial Car Speakers (Pair)
| Speaker size | 6×8 |
|---|---|
| Tweeter size | 0.75" |
| Impedance | 4 Ohm |
| Configuration | 2-way coaxial |
These Kicker KS-Series 6×8 coaxial speakers are a straightforward factory-replacement style upgrade that brings clearer highs and tighter midbass to a Subaru Forester without complicated installation. They mount like typical 6×8 replacements and include mounting hardware and connectors that help fit many factory locations. The speakers use internally damped polypropylene cones and rubber surrounds to control cone motion and reduce distortion at higher volumes, while the .75-inch tweeter improves detail and imaging compared with typical factory units. Practical features include minimal tweeter protrusion for easier fitment and included adapters for common OEM brackets. On the downside, they are coaxials, so you do not get the separate mid/tweet tuning flexibility of a component system, and they perform best when paired with at least a modest amplifier or a head unit with decent power to unlock fuller dynamics. For a buyer optimizing sound for dollars spent, these deliver a notable step up over factory speakers in a Forester with simple bolt-in installation.
Best for: Practical optimizers who want a clear, affordable step up from factory speakers in a Subaru Forester and prefer straightforward bolt-in installation without custom fabrication.
Less Ideal for: Audiophiles seeking a full component setup with separate crossovers and custom tweeter placement should consider component speakers instead.
- Designed as a direct-fit style coaxial with minimal tweeter protrusion for easier installation in factory locations
- Polypropylene woofer cones with rubber surrounds provide controlled midbass and reduced distortion at higher volumes
- .75" tweeters deliver clearer high frequencies and improved imaging over typical factory speakers
- Includes common mounting brackets and spliced connectors to simplify installation
- Coaxial design limits separate tweeter placement and high-end tuning compared with component speaker systems
- Performs noticeably better with additional amplifier power rather than only low-power factory head units
Verdict: A budget-friendly bolt-in upgrade for Subaru Forester owners who want noticeably better clarity and bass without complex installation.
4. Hifonics ZS5768CX 5×7/6×8 Coaxial Car Speakers (Pair, 4-Ohm)
| Impedance | 4 Ohms |
|---|---|
| Frequency Response +/-3dB | 46Hz-20kHz |
| Sensitivity | 88 dB (1W/1m) |
| RMS Power Handling (CEA426B) | 90 W |
The Hifonics ZS5768CX pair is a budget coaxial speaker set intended as a direct factory-style replacement for common 6×8 locations. They combine an alpha-cellulose woofer with a Neo-Mylar soft-dome tweeter and a passive Butterworth crossover to extend response from roughly 46 Hz to 20 kHz, so you get fuller midbass and clearer highs compared with worn-out stock speakers. Built features like a rubber surround, Kapton voice-coil former, ferrite motor and stamped steel basket keep the speakers durable and straightforward to install in standard mounts. In practice these deliver noticeably louder output from a factory head unit and handle everyday listening without an external amp, though sensitivity is moderate so they will not reach extreme SPL with no amplification. The passive crossover and 4 ohm impedance make them compatible with typical Forester stereos, but drivers are not waterproof and some users report limits at very high volume levels. For budget upgrades that prioritize better tone and reliability over high-power performance, these are a practical, easy swap for a Subaru Forester.
Best for: Budget-conscious Forester owners who want a straightforward, factory-style speaker upgrade to improve daily listening without installing an amp or changing factory locations.
Less Ideal for: Audiophiles seeking very high output or waterproof speakers for open or exposed installations should consider higher-end or purpose-built alternatives.
- Designed for direct replacement in common 6×8/5×7 factory locations for easy installation
- Alpha-cellulose cone with rubber surround improves midbass impact versus worn stock speakers
- Neo-Mylar soft-dome tweeter and passive crossover deliver clearer highs and smoother transitions
- Sturdy stamped steel basket and Kapton voice-coil former improve heat handling and long-term durability
- Not rated as waterproof so not ideal for exposed speaker locations
- Moderate sensitivity means they will not reach very high volume without an external amplifier
- Max power rating and construction limit suitability for aggressive high-SPL tuning
Verdict: A practical, wallet-friendly 6×8 replacement that brings clearer highs and firmer midbass to a Subaru Forester without major installation work.
5. Kenwood KFC-C6866S 6×8 2-Way Car Speakers (Pair)
| Speaker Type | Coaxial |
|---|---|
| Impedance | 4 Ohms |
| Maximum Power | 250 watts (max), 30 watts RMS |
| Tweeter Diameter | 1 Inches |
| Mounting Height | 5/16 inch (shallow) |
The Kenwood KFC-C6866S are 6×8 two-way coaxial speakers intended as a straightforward replacement for factory 6×8 locations. They pair a polypropylene paper cone woofer with a 1 inch PEI balanced-dome tweeter to deliver stronger midbass and clearer highs than typical stock door speakers. Installation is the usual direct-swap for vehicles that accept 6×8 speakers, and the shallow 5/16 inch mounting depth helps fit into tighter factory pockets. In practice these sound best driven by a factory or modest aftermarket head unit rather than a high-power amp, and reviewers report noticeable improvement in clarity and midrange presence but only modest low-end punch. The set includes basic mounting screws and speaker cord, but you may need vehicle-specific adapters or harnesses for a clean plug-and-play install. If you want reliable, easy-to-fit replacements that lift vocals and instruments without adding heavy bass, these are a sensible choice for everyday use in a Forester; do not expect deep subwoofer-level bass from the design.
Best for: Reliability-focused buyers who want a dependable, factory-replacement style upgrade that improves clarity and midrange in daily driving without chasing heavy bass or complicated installs.
Less Ideal for: Listeners seeking deep bass or high-output systems for SPL or bass-heavy music should consider adding a dedicated subwoofer or higher-power components instead of relying on these speakers alone.
- Designed for 6×8 factory locations with very shallow mounting depth for easier fitment.
- Polypropylene paper cone provides punchy midbass and clear midrange.
- 1" PEI balanced-dome tweeter improves high-frequency detail and vocal clarity.
- Includes basic mounting hardware and speaker cord for a ready replacement pair.
- Modest RMS power handling limits output without an external amplifier.
- Not designed for strong low-frequency bass reproduction compared with component systems or subwoofers.
- May require vehicle-specific mounting adapters or wiring harnesses for truly plug-and-play installation.
Verdict: A reliable, shallow-mount 6×8 replacement that boosts midrange and treble clarity for everyday Forester listening but does not deliver strong deep bass.
6. JBL Club 8620 5×7/6×8 2-Way Coaxial Car Speaker Pair
| Speaker Type | 2-way coaxial |
|---|---|
| Woofer Diameter | 6 inches |
| Power (Peak) | 165 watts each / 330 watts per pair |
| Power (RMS) | 55 watts each / 110 watts per pair |
| Impedance | 3 Ohms |
These JBL Club 8620 speakers are a budget-friendly 2-way coaxial upgrade for vehicles that use 5×7 or 6×8 front or rear locations. They pair a polypropylene woofer with an edge-driven PEI balanced dome tweeter and include crossovers to separate highs and lows, which helps deliver clearer vocals and tighter mid-bass than many factory units. Typical installation is a direct speaker swap into the speaker opening using the supplied adapters and mounting hardware, though reviewers note you may need extra screws, speaker wire, and foam tape for a proper seal. The speakers handle moderate power well and respond positively when driven by an amplifier, but they also perform acceptably on factory head unit power. Limitations include a low nominal impedance of 3 ohms, which can draw more current from weak factory radios, and minimal included wiring and sealing materials, so plan for a few small parts during installation. For convenience-focused upgrades in vehicles that fit 6×8/5×7 openings, these deliver a noticeable improvement in clarity and punch without complex tuning.
Best for: Convenience-driven buyers who want a straightforward, low-effort sound upgrade for a Subaru Forester and prefer a plug-and-play replacement that noticeably improves clarity without complex tuning.
Less Ideal for: Audiophile listeners seeking extremely refined, high-power components or users unwilling to add a small amount of wiring, mounting hardware, or sound-deadening to optimize performance.
- Clearer highs from the edge-driven PEI tweeter and included crossovers for better separation
- Good mid-bass punch compared with many stock speakers, especially when paired with an amp
- Fits common 5×7 and 6×8 mounting locations with supplied adapters for easier installation
- Solid build feel and multiple mounting options included for versatile placement
- Only includes minimal wiring and foam tape so you may need extra installation materials
- 3 ohm impedance can load weaker factory head units more than higher-impedance speakers
Verdict: A convenient, affordable 6×8/5×7 coaxial upgrade that brings clearer highs and stronger mid-bass to a Subaru Forester with minimal extra work.
7. Alphasonik AS268P 6×8-inch 3-Way Car Speakers (Pair x2)
| Speaker Type | 3-Way Speaker |
|---|---|
| Impedance | 4 Ohms |
| Sensitivity | 92 dB |
| Frequency Response | 28 – 22,000 Hz |
| Included Components | 4x Speakers, Coaxial Cables, Mounting Screws, Installation Manual |
The Alphasonik AS268P kit supplies two pairs of 6×8-inch 3-way speakers intended as a direct upgrade over worn factory speakers. In a Subaru Forester these mount into the 6×8 openings used by many model years and are typically installed in front or rear door positions to restore clarity and volume. The speakers include mounting hardware and lead wires so installation is straightforward for a shop or a confident DIYer who follows Forester door-panel removal steps. With a claimed 35 watts RMS per speaker, 92 dB sensitivity and a 28–22,000 Hz response the kit increases vocal clarity and midrange detail on factory head units, while the 3-way design tames high frequencies better than simple coaxials. Expect noticeably fuller sound without adding an amplifier, but the low bass remains limited so pairing with a small subwoofer is recommended if you want deep low end. Build quality is serviceable for daily use, though these are not high-end components and may not match the longevity or tight bass of premium branded speakers.
Best for: A risk-averse mainstream Forester owner who wants a straightforward, affordable replacement that noticeably improves clarity and loudness over factory speakers without major electrical work.
Less Ideal for: Audiophiles seeking tight, extended bass or owners who prefer a high-power amplified system should look at higher-end speakers and an external amplifier instead.
- Sold as four speakers with mounting hardware and pigtail leads for easier install in common door locations
- 3-way design and 92 dB sensitivity improve vocal and upper-mid detail from a stock Forester head unit
- Shallow mounting depth and included screws make them compatible with tight door cavities on many Forester model years
- Low RMS power per speaker means limited deep bass without adding a subwoofer or amplifier
- Build and materials are midrange rather than premium, so long-term durability may be lower than higher-end options
Verdict: A wallet-friendly 6×8 upgrade for Forester owners who want clearer, louder factory-level sound but will need a sub or amp for serious bass.
Choosing the Right Subaru Forester 6X8 Speakers: Key Factors to Consider
Fitment And Mounting Depth
Correct fitment is the starting point for any 6×8 speaker swap. Measure the factory mounting depth and mounting hole pattern in the Forester so the replacement speaker clears internal door components and the window mechanism. Speakers that require adapters or extensive modification increase installation time and can compromise the factory sealing and vibration control.
Depth also affects cone excursion and the achievable bass response. A speaker that fits flush and secures tightly will reduce rattles and maintain a good acoustic seal, which helps with low-frequency output and overall clarity.
Power Handling And Sensitivity
Power handling indicates how much amplifier power a speaker can safely accept, while sensitivity measures how efficiently the speaker converts power into audible output. For most Forester owners using a factory head unit, moderate sensitivity and power handling that accommodates mild amplification are ideal. If you plan to add a dedicated amplifier, choose speakers with higher continuous power ratings to avoid thermal stress.
Matching sensitivity and power handling to your audio source prevents distortion at higher volumes and extends speaker life. Consider peak versus RMS ratings and lean toward components with reliable RMS specifications.
Speaker Type And Tweeter Configuration
6×8 speakers are available as coaxial units with integrated tweeters or as component systems with separate tweeters. Coaxial speakers simplify installation and deliver an immediate improvement over stock units, making them a sensible choice when dash or pillar mounting is not feasible. Component systems allow more precise placement of tweeters for better imaging and staging but usually require extra installation work.
Decide whether you prioritize ease of install or soundstage refinement. In-door or A-pillar locations in the Forester may limit tweeter placement, so factor that into whether a coaxial or component approach will meet your goals.
Cone Materials And Durability
The cone material influences tonal character and longevity. Polypropylene and mineral-filled cones often resist moisture and temperature swings encountered inside vehicle doors, while treated paper or composite cones can offer a warmer, more natural midrange. Surround materials such as rubber typically last longer than foam in automotive environments.
Durability is important for a car that sees variable weather and frequent use. Choose materials that balance the sound profile you prefer with resilience to heat, humidity, and UV exposure.
Frequency Response And Tonal Balance
Look at the speaker's frequency response to understand how it will reproduce bass, mids, and highs. A balanced response helps vocals and instruments sit correctly in the mix, while speakers with extended low-frequency capability can provide fuller bass without a subwoofer. Pay attention to any stated roll-off points and how the speaker handles midbass, since cabin acoustics will influence perceived output.
Tonal balance also affects how much you will need equalization. Speakers that reproduce midrange clearly usually require less correction to achieve a natural sound in the cabin.
Installation Ease And Mounting Hardware
Installation considerations include whether the speaker comes with adapters, mounting brackets, or pre-attached grills that match the Forester mounting pattern. Speakers that offer direct-fit mounting and plug-and-play wiring simplify the upgrade and reduce the need for professional help. Also consider the weight and magnet depth, which can affect clearance behind the door panel.
Good mounting hardware and clear instructions reduce the risk of installation errors that cause rattles or poor electrical connections. If you plan to retain factory grills, confirm grille compatibility before purchase.
How We Chose the Best Subaru Forester 6X8 Speakers
We focused on real-world fit and performance factors that matter specifically for 6×8 speaker replacements in the Subaru Forester. Our primary selection filters included mounting dimensions and depth clearance to ensure straightforward installation in factory door and rear locations. We also evaluated power handling and sensitivity to match common head units and amplifiers, plus cone and surround materials for durability and sound character. Frequency response and dispersion were considered to assess clarity across vocals and instruments. Build quality and reliability under automotive conditions, including thermal tolerance and moisture resistance, were another decisive factor. We excluded products that lacked clear fitment specs or did not provide meaningful technical details. The result is a list that prioritizes compatibility, usable power range, and construction suited to day-to-day vehicle use.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
Will any 6×8 speaker fit the Subaru Forester?
Not every 6×8 speaker will fit without modification. While 6×8 is the nominal size, mounting depth, hole pattern, and magnet clearance vary by model. Check the speaker's detailed dimensions and compare them to the Forester's factory openings to ensure a proper fit and avoid interference with window mechanisms.
Should I choose coaxial or component 6×8 speakers for my Forester?
Coaxial 6×8 speakers are easier to install and provide an immediate upgrade over factory units, which makes them a practical choice for many owners. Component systems can offer better imaging and cleaner highs when you can place tweeters separately, but they usually require more installation work and space for mounting crossovers.
How important is power handling for car speakers?
Power handling is important because it indicates how much continuous power the speaker can safely take. If you use the factory head unit, moderate power handling is sufficient. For higher volume or amplifier use, choose speakers with higher RMS ratings to reduce the risk of distortion and thermal failure.
Can I keep the factory grills when replacing the 6×8 speakers?
Sometimes you can retain factory grills, but it depends on the replacement speaker's mounting depth and grille attachment points. Verify that the new speaker's frame and grille clearance match the factory grill opening to avoid rubbing or obstruction when the door is opened and closed.
Do I need an amplifier with new 6×8 speakers?
An amplifier is not always required. Many modern 6×8 speakers are efficient enough to perform well with a factory head unit. However, adding an amplifier can provide cleaner power, higher headroom, and better control over bass and dynamics, especially if you choose speakers with higher power handling.
Conclusion
When choosing 6×8 speakers for a Subaru Forester, prioritize fitment, mounting depth, and power handling to ensure a straightforward installation and reliable performance. Also weigh speaker type, cone materials, and frequency response against your listening goals and willingness to modify mounting locations.Balancing durability and tonal balance will help you get the most from the upgrade while minimizing installation headaches. Focus on the factors that match your audio source and installation constraints to find the best long-term solution.
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