Car Audio
Subaru Audio Upgrade Guide | WRX, Outback & Harman Kardon Bypass
Blackout Team· Window Tinting Experts
·6 min read
Complete Subaru speaker upgrade guide. WRX, Outback, Crosstrek audio improvements with Harman Kardon bypass options.
Subaru Audio Upgrade Guide
Subaru makes great cars with mediocre audio. Even the Harman Kardon option leaves enthusiasts wanting more. Let's fix that.
Common Models We Upgrade
- Subaru WRX/STI
- Subaru Outback
- Subaru Forester
- Subaru Crosstrek
- Subaru Impreza
Factory Audio Analysis
Base System
Issues:
- Weak paper-cone speakers
- No dedicated amplification
- Muddy bass, harsh highs
- Road noise overwhelms detail
Harman Kardon System
Better but still limited:
- Active amplification
- Branded speakers
- Custom EQ tuning
- Still lacks real bass/impact
Upgrade Strategies
Base System Upgrades
Straightforward improvements:
1. Speaker upgrade (best value)
- 6.5" door speakers
- Dash tweeters
- Significant improvement
2. Add amplification
- 4-channel for speakers
- Opens speaker options
3. Add subwoofer
- Under-seat or trunk
- Real bass finally
Harman Kardon Upgrades
Two paths:
Option A: Keep HK amp
- Replace speakers only
- Use HK-compatible speakers
- Modest improvement
Option B: Bypass HK (recommended)
- AudioControl or PAC interface
- Full aftermarket control
- Maximum potential
WRX/STI Specific
Popular WRX Setup
| Component | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Front speakers | JL Audio C2 components |
| Rear speakers | Quality coaxials |
| Subwoofer | 10" sealed (trunk) |
| Amp | 5-channel DSP amp |
WRX Challenges
- Road noise (performance tires)
- Exhaust noise (especially modified)
- Limited trunk space
Solution: Sound deadening + quality components
Outback/Forester Specific
Family-Friendly Upgrades
| Priority | Upgrade |
|---|---|
| 1 | Front component speakers |
| 2 | Small subwoofer (cargo area) |
| 3 | Amplifier for power |
| 4 | Sound deadening |
Space Advantages
Cargo area fits proper subwoofer without sacrifice.
Popular Subaru Packages
Basic Improvement: $400-600 installed
- Quality door speakers
- Dash tweeters
- Factory integration
Solid Upgrade: $800-1,200 installed
- Component speakers (front)
- 4-channel amplifier
- Quality coaxials (rear)
Full System: $1,500-2,500 installed
- HK bypass (if equipped)
- Premium components
- DSP amplifier
- Subwoofer + amp
- Sound deadening (doors)
Why Sound Deadening Matters
Subarus are notoriously noisy:
- Thin doors
- Road tire noise
- Exhaust (sport models)
Adding deadening:
- Improves speaker performance
- Reduces fatigue
- Better bass response
- Quieter cabin
Ready to Fix Your Subaru Audio?
📞 Call 408-848-8468 — discuss your Subaru
📝 Get a free quote — we know Subarus
Related Content
- Deadening: Sound Deadening Guide
- Speakers: Best Speakers Under $500
- Full Service: Car Audio Services
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