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Buying guide

What does a car sound system really cost?

There's no single price tag for a car audio upgrade — it depends entirely on what you're trying to achieve. Here's what actually drives the cost, and how to get the best possible value at every budget.

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A Radio Waves guide Entry-Level · Mid-Range · Premium
Where the cost comes from

What determines the cost?

Several factors influence the final price of a car audio upgrade. The more comprehensive the system, the more time, equipment and expertise are involved.

Choose your level

Entry-level, mid-range or premium.

Every upgrade path starts somewhere different depending on your goals. Here's what's typically involved at each level.

Entry-Level

Everyday Clarity

  • Replacement front speakers matched to your vehicle.
  • Professional installation and basic sound tuning.
  • Ideal for drivers who simply want better sound than the factory system — for many vehicles, this upgrade alone transforms the listening experience.
Mid-Range

Power & Control

  • Premium front speakers, with rear speakers optional.
  • Four-channel amplifier for clean, consistent power.
  • This is where customers usually notice the biggest improvement — greater clarity, more volume without distortion and richer sound across all genres.
Premium

Full Immersion

  • High-end component speakers and a multi-channel amplifier.
  • DSP, custom subwoofer enclosure and sound deadening.
  • Designed specifically for the vehicle and the owner's listening preferences, with exceptional clarity and a balanced soundstage.
You don't need it all at once

A staged upgrade path.

One of the advantages of aftermarket car audio is that it can be upgraded in stages. This allows you to spread the investment over time while enjoying noticeable improvements at every step.

STAGE 01

Front Speakers

Replace the factory speakers for an immediate lift in clarity.

STAGE 02

Amplifier

Add a four-channel amplifier for clean, consistent power.

STAGE 03

Subwoofer

Install a subwoofer for full, accurate low-end.

STAGE 04

DSP Tuning

Add a DSP for advanced, vehicle-specific tuning.

STAGE 05

Rear Speakers

Upgrade rear speakers if you need it.

A common assumption

Is more expensive always better?

Not always. The most expensive equipment isn't automatically the best choice for every vehicle.

A professionally selected mid-range system that's correctly installed and tuned will often outperform expensive equipment that's poorly matched or incorrectly installed.

  • We design systems where every component works together
  • We match equipment to your vehicle, not just your wish list
  • We'll never recommend the most expensive option just because it's available
Don't overlook this

Installation is part of the cost.

Installation is just as important as the equipment itself. Poor installation can lead to engine noise through speakers, battery issues, loose panels, damaged interior trim and equipment failure.

Quality workmanship protects both your investment and your vehicle — see our beginner's guide to car audio for how the components fit together.

  • Safe wiring & proper cable routing
  • Secure mounting
  • Correct fuse protection
  • Noise prevention
  • System testing & audio tuning
Easy to overlook

Sound deadening & factory-premium systems.

Two questions we get asked often — and both affect where your budget is best spent.

Sound deadening

What About Sound Deadening?

Many people overlook one of the most effective upgrades available. It allows speakers to perform much more efficiently while making the cabin noticeably quieter.

  • Reduces road noise
  • Reduces door vibration & panel resonance
  • Reduces speaker distortion
Factory premium

Is Factory-Premium Good Enough?

Many modern vehicles include branded factory systems. These are generally better than standard factory audio, but they still have limitations we can improve on.

  • Better bass response & clarity
  • Greater dynamic range & power
  • Without losing steering controls or infotainment
Common questions

Frequently asked questions.

Can I improve my sound without replacing everything?+
Yes. Many customers start with front speakers and gradually build their system over time, adding an amplifier, subwoofer and DSP tuning as their budget allows.
Is an amplifier worth the money?+
Absolutely. An amplifier improves clarity, power and overall listening enjoyment far more than most people expect, giving speakers the clean power they need to perform properly.
Do I need a subwoofer?+
If you enjoy full, balanced sound, a subwoofer makes a significant difference. It's not just about louder bass — it's about reproducing the lowest frequencies accurately.
Can I keep my factory radio?+
In most modern vehicles, yes. Professional installers can integrate new speakers and amplifiers while retaining factory controls and infotainment features.
Will a better sound system increase resale value?+
It may not dramatically increase resale value, but a professionally installed system can make your vehicle more appealing to enthusiasts while giving you years of enjoyment in the meantime.
What's included in a typical installation quote?+
A proper quote should cover equipment, wiring, mounting, fuse protection and professional tuning — not just the price of the components themselves.
Do prices vary between vehicles?+
Yes. Vehicle layout, factory wiring and available mounting space all affect installation time, which is why the same system can cost differently from one vehicle to the next.

Let's find your budget.

There's no one-size-fits-all price for a quality car sound system. Bring your vehicle to our Newton Park workshop and we'll build a system that suits your budget, your vehicle and the way you listen.

Get a customised quote ↗