Best 6-Speaker SOUNDBAR for C3 Coupes

Will a soundbar make a big difference with how music sounds?
The short anser is Yes! As long as you combine it with a good subwoofer.
Even though I am not an audiophile, I like to listen to music while driving my '76 Vette and enjoy a good-sounding stereo system. Unfortunately, the old factory speakers sounded horrible.
I did install a cheap speaker box a while ago, as well as a Kenwood subwoofer and Polk Audio dash speakers. This improved the sound quality tremendously, but having a bulky speaker box in the storage compartment meant giving up the space to stow the T-tops.
The Challenger soundbar by Custom Autosound solved that issue and I am very pleased with the sound quality, which is greatly enhanced by a Kenwood KSC-SW11 compact subwoofer.
And while it's almost impossible to attain a "concert hall" level of sound in such tight quarters, my upgraded stereo system sounds great.
The installation process can be a little frustrating but, for the most part, it is straightforward and attainable by the average do-it-yourselfer with the time, a few basic tools, and most importantly the required amount of patience to do the job right.
I spent approximately three hours total from start to finish, and that includes the time spent taking photos for a blog article (bit.ly/3syVz29), as well as shooting this video.
Having said that, keep in mind that I already had speaker wires running all the way to the storage area, and the subwoofer was already installed and operational, so your installation time will vary.
And speaking of subwoofers... I think they are an absolute requirement if you want a rich sound in the cabin of your C3 Corvette. See the links below for some of the products I used.
As far as the soundbar is concerned, I purchased mine from speedway_motors on eBay. I paid full price for my soundbar and the reason I bought from them is that they offered the lowest price as well as free shipping. I received my soundbar in 3 days!
I think that for around $120, this aftermarket accessory is a bargain. It looks like my Corvette came with it from the factory and the sound and construction quality are great.
I hope you will find the installation video helpful if you decide to buy one.
One last comment is that this item is designed for Corvette coupes from 1963 through 1982. Sorry convertible owners.
Thank you for watching! 🙂👍🏻
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CONTENTS
00:31 Installing the Aluminum Spreader Bars
05:10 Installation Hardware
05:35 Securing the Spreader Bars with Allen Screws
06:56 Measuring the Area where the Soundbar will be Installed
11:53 Test Fitting the Soundar
12:57 The Subwoofer and Speaker Wires
14:04 Securing the Soundbar
15:10 Cutting and Fitting the Filler Foam Panel
22:14 Testing the New Audio System
23:58 The New 6-Speaker Soundbar Looks Great!
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CORVETTE PRODUCTS (sponsored)
✅ C3 Corvette Parts and Accessories: amzn.to/3c95IL0
✅ Dual DC206BT Single-DIN Car Stereo | Bluetooth, CD/MP3 Player: amzn.to/3xok3N3
✅ Dual XRM59BT Single-DIN In-Dash Receiver with Bluetooth: amzn.to/2SOwId4
✅ Kenwood KSC-SW11 Slim Subwoofer & Amplifier: amzn.to/3yGV8or
✅ Polk Audio DB461P 4x6-Inch Speakers (Pair): amzn.to/3k1vfvt
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DISCLAIMER: Even though I like to wrench on my 1976 Corvette Stingray and most of my videos are of a how-to nature, I am not responsible nor liable should you decide to follow my musings on the subject.
The repairs and other work I do are for my own benefit and entertainment, and even though my videos may sound and appear to give technical how-to advice, that's not my intention.
Working on a vehicle is inherently dangerous. If you're not confident, qualified, or lack the tools to do the job correctly and safely, hire a licensed mechanic.
#corvettec3 #c3 #c3corvette

[@IronmanKMSA]

I've been agonizing forever how to get sound in my 74 (pictured here in my icon). You saved me a lot of time and frustration, I was starting to grow hopeless about it. VERY COOL, THANK YOU SIR!!!

[@76vette]

Thank you for watching! 😊👍🏻

[@anthonychicoine9372]

OUTSTANDING video. I’m helping a friend install one of these in a ‘73 Corvette Stingray. We followed your video to the letter and the installation is perfect. Your idea to wrap the wire around that screw on the back wall and then tie it around one of the cross bars of the soundbar made the installation rock solid. It won’t be moving or vibrating at all. The soundbar covers the factory installed courtesy lamp on the back wall. We removed the lamp, then tapped into the wiring and installed LED strip lights on the ceiling of the cargo area. They really light up that space when you open the doors of the car.

[@76vette]

Thank you so much, Anthony, and I’m very glad to hear my video was helpful. Tapping into the courtesy lights to install LEDs for the cargo area is a great idea. I did that for my ‘76. C3s up to ‘76 have very dark interiors, and one of the best things I did was to repurpose the cargo light and use it as a dome light with an LED bulb. What a difference! Thank you for watching! 😊👍🏻

[@sdsconstruction]

I have the same sound bar recently installed in my 73 Vette. I am very happy with it. I used wide adhesive Velcro to install it to the back panel. I replaced all original factory speakers (4 of them….2 in dash, 2 in door panels) since they were shot and added an amplifier and a new Vette-looking stereo with Bluetooth and aux. Next go around -- I will get the expensive 73 Vette reproduction stereo with Bluetooth so it matches the original look with modern ability to play music and SiriusXM from my phone. Thanks for your content and channel!

[@76vette]

Great idea using Velcro to secure the soundbar 💡 I’ve been thinking about getting one of those Bluetooth cig lighter plug-ins for around $20. A buddy of mine has one in his ‘73 and really likes it. Thanks for following. 🙏🏻😊👍🏻

[@sucurley1442]

Awesome video. Thank you! This system is so perfect in the C3 and way better than the 900W amplifier, subs, and jumble of wires my car had when I got it. Your little tips and tricks were super helpful, and I followed your lead and used wiring to hold up the top spanner.

[@76vette]

Glad to hear it was helpful. Thank you for watching! 😊👍🏻

[@e.z.hernandez6378]

Fantastic job. Your video sealed the deal on me getting this set for my 68. I planned on getting the retro Bluetooth console to go with it to keep the vintage look. Love the lighting too.

[@76vette]

Thank you. So far I love the sound and all the storage space I got back by eliminating the traditional speaker box. As far as the lighting, it’s not perfect and I may redo it one of these days. But it’s a thousand times better than the original dome light incandescent bulb which, by the way, I relocated to the T bar as a proper dome light with an LED bulb. 😊👍🏻

[@plang527]

I was lost with the instructions! Your video had me done in an hour! Thank you!

[@76vette]

Glad to hear that. Thank you for sharing. 😊👍🏻

[@bluesxt]

Wow looks pretty good and seems to fit pretty nicely!

[@76vette]

Thanks. And I am very impressed with how well it fits and how good it looks. Not sure about the quality of the speakers but they look like they could be easily replaced with better ones when necessary. 😊👍🏻

[@ssdtrain1]

Just a thought, instead of measuring the back area for the soundbar, it has set screws so you can fit it against the sides firmly, then tighten one side of the screws to keep in place. seems a lot easier like that.

[@76vette]

Good idea. 😊👍🏻

[@didiermasclet9886]

Congratulations sir, the rendering is superb with your magnificent Corvette and your still educational videos. This is a great help for me. Thank you and greetings from France.

[@76vette]

Thank you! Glad you enjoyed the video. Greetings from Ocala, Florida, USA 🇺🇸 😊👍🏻

[@davearsenault6579]

I bought this setup last year and it's a breeze to install it. Less than an hour and the car was rocking. Not hi fidelity but definitely high quality.

[@76vette]

Thank you for watching! 😊👍🏻

[@TheComando156]

Alrighty. Finally got the speakers installed tonight. I mounted mine a little higher than yours in the back on my 76. I cut the middle piece at 16 inches. I also used some Velcro strips to secure speaker against the back wall. As for sound quality.... Actually better then my front speakers. I still need to install the seat and do a drive with tops off to determine the improvement. My reproduction head unit happens to be the same manufacturer ironically... Found the manual in the glove box. Thanks again for your video and your replies!

[@76vette]

Hey Terry, Glad to hear you got it installed. AFA the head unit, I think Custom Auto Sound makes several of them. I have a really cheap radio so my plan is to replace it one of these days with a good quality ahead unit with Blue Tooth. Anyway, I hope you’re happy with the upgraded sound system and glad to hear my video was helpful. Be well. 😊👍🏻

[@TheComando156]

@@76vette alright. Took it on a drive Tonight with the tops off. Good news, I'm pleased with the sound bar. I can hear the music while driving 80 on the highway. Makes a big difference. I totally agree with you though... I will need to install a small subwoofer down the road. No bass without one. Bad news is... When I got home.. I found my heater core went out during the drive tonight and the Passenger carpet was wet with antifreeze :(. Will have to do a heater core bypass until I either work up the courage to take apart the dash and replace.. or pay a mechanic. The joys of having a almost 50 year old piece of art.

[@76vette]

@@TheComando156 The subwoofer will bring it to a new and higher level. Trust me. But glad to hear you’re pleased with the system overall. And it looks good and clean with the added advantage of still having a usable storage area. AFA your heater core, yeah, the love/hate relationship with these classic cars never ends. I wrote a pretty detailed blog article a couple of years ago covering installation of a new heater core, cleaning the complete system, and doing a heater-delete. www.76vette.com/2019/06/heater-core-delete-fix-ac-issues.html I am sure it will give you a few ideas on how to go about getting yours done. I’d do the job myself as it will also give you the opportunity to clean and seal all the ducts properly, and save a TON of money. Plus you will know the job was done right. But I’m not gonna lie. It’s a BIG one! Good luck and stay in touch! 😊👍🏻

[@zeddie9625]

Looks to be a GREAT addition

[@76vette]

I really think it is, and I love it! 🙂👍

[@Nobamaable]

Those speakers look great. I may go that route, but I have too many other things to do on my 71 to get started on better sound... priorities, priorities. Sound will be the last thing I do.

[@76vette]

Thanks! I would also add a subwoofer. It really makes a huge difference. But I agree as far as the sound system being toward the end of the list. Good luck with your ‘71 Vette 😊👍🏻

[@tokuzumi1]

I like those LED lights in the trunk. Did you do a video on those? Didn't see one in a basic search of your videos. I'd like to know more about how you did those.

[@76vette]

Hello. Unfortunately I did not. It was more of an experiment at the time since I had bought a roll of cheap LEDs and wasn’t sure if they could be used for that purpose. They did work though, and I posted a few photos to Instagram: instagram.com/p/BzYcJZwneXX/ I tapped into the storage compartment light wiring to power them, and daisy-chained them after cutting to size. I may redo them one of these days and use more powerful LEDs. 😊👍🏻

[@EHUE-kf4ey]

MR. 76 VETTE A 4-STAR RATTING.JUST THOUGHT, UR STEREO HEAD UNIT INSTALL LOOKS GREAT. I WIST U HAD A VID ON 1st TO FINISH INSTALL. I'AM IN THE PROCESS OF DITCHING MY FACTORY BOSE SYSTEM IN MY 89 C4 VETTE. ALSO I WILL SEE IF THERE IS A SOUND BAR FOR 84-91 C4'S. BEST, GE.

[@76vette]

Hello, and thank you for sharing your comments. I installed the newer style radio and subwoofer when I first got the car, but I was not shooting video back then so I never recorded that process, which is a shame. You may want to check with Crutchfield for radios and speakers for your Corvette as they offer a huge selection of quality products. www.crutchfield.com Thank you for watching! 😊👍🏻

[@TheComando156]

Hey I just bought one after watching your video for my 76... How did you run your rear speaker wires to the head unit? Like did you go through center console or did you go through left/right side of floor/trim? Im not sure what's the easiest route to run the cables with the least amount of panel removal.

[@76vette]

If memory serves, I am pretty sure I ran all the wires through the center console to the subwoofer and from there back to the speakers. Which would be the same whether you have a subwoofer or not. The center console is the most direct route. Once you get to the bulkhead behind the seats, you can route them as desired. Having them on one side (and properly labeled), makes things easier, IMO. Good luck with the installation! 😊👍🏻

[@TheComando156]

@@76vette thanks for reply. I just ran them through the center console as well. There was a nice little wire hook in there for another wire that I held them down with. I went straight into the cargo area and then up under the carpet to the rear. Took me a while but I was trying not to break anything and keep track of all of the screws. I still need to actually test and install the sound bar though. Going to finish this up tomorrow. Hoping they sound good and give that needed sound boost for when cruising with the windows down or top off.

[@76vette]

I think you’ll be pleased with it, and if you ever install a small sub-woofer, you will be amazed at the richness of the sound. 😊👍🏻

[@mmackinnon123]

So I started the install! Some questions! 1) I installed the Polk on the passenger side (sounds great!) did you have to drop the steering column on the drivers to get at the speaker there? 2) I assume you ran the sub wire from the stereo to the sub, did you connect the rear speakers through the sub or directly to the stereo? If to the stereo where did you run the wires for the sub and the rear speakers to the stereo? So far, replaced the stereo (I splurged for blue tooth :p) and did the passengers speaker !

[@76vette]

Gosh, I installed that system years ago, but I think I removed the top dash pad to get to the front speakers. You have to push the pad up so it arches and clears the A pillars. You have to remove the A-pillar trim and there’s a small dash pad bracket near the middle toward the firewall. As far as the subwoofer/speaker installation I honestly don’t remember. I probably just followed manufacturer instructions. Sorry. You’ll enjoy having Bluetooth for sure. 😊👍🏻

[@mmackinnon123]

@@76vette thank you! I just wanted to say you are the most responsive most helpful person I’ve ever run across for anything including Vettes. Thank you, it really is appreciated!

[@76vette]

You are very kind. Thank you, and I’m sure your audio system installation will be top-notch! Please let me know how it turns out. 😊👍🏻

[@davidmcmenamin9701]

Awesome speakers in an awesome red Vette.

[@76vette]

Thank you! 😊👍🏻

[@kenmcdonaldii3887]

Would you put this soundbar in your 81? Today I took on the project of replacing the 3 original speaker wire harnesses (black/white/blue) in my 81. The previous owner removed them and direct wired the car to a cassette player/radio. Then I installed the custom auto sound USA 740 Bluetooth 300 watt radio. They sent me the correct wiring harness adapter (plug & play). Surprisingly I was able to do it and everything works, even the power antenna. Unfortunately, the old Delco speakers do not sound all that great. Now I need to decide on what to do with the speakers. I will definitely replace the front speakers in the dash. However I am not sure what to do in the rear. Unfortunately both of the rear mounting brackets are broke. The rear speakers currently just sit in place. I definitely want room for the t-tops but not sure about a subwoofer sitting out in the back taking up space.

[@76vette]

There are small subwoofers that fit (allegedly) under the passenger seat. I would call a reputable place like www.crutchfield.com to see what they recommend. The soundbar is definitely something to consider and it looks great, so yes! 😊😊

[@heybert71]

I just installed the same soundbar and wires are ready to run up to an older (not stock?) Pioneer Cassette Deck. The wire ends on the new soundbar are not RCA jacks...not sure what you call them, but are they supposed to plug into the back side of the old stereo deck or do I need any converters? Your system already had wiring in the back from previous speakers and didn't show how you plugged in the new soundbar. Thanks. Great video.

[@76vette]

Hello. I am not a car audio expert, but as far as I know, RCA plugs are used for connecting amplifiers. Your older Pioneer radio/cassette deck should have traditional two-wire speaker leads coming out of the back, usually from a plug. Those wires would provide the audio signal for the speakers. I hope this helps you get your system working. 😊👍🏻

[@heybert71]

@@76vette Thanks for the quick reply. I appreciate your C3 videos...keep them coming! I picked up a white 77 with red interior about a month ago. So much fun driving around with the tops off. I will not be replacing the head unit and just opted to go with the plug in Bluetooth FM transmitter.

[@76vette]

@@heybert71 Congratulations! 😎👍🏻

[@mmackinnon123]

Hey Man So i have a 75 Stingray and am looking to upgrade the audio. I have a retrostereo in it now. So if i understand correctly the polk speakers replaced your dash speakers, the sub is sitting in the back there and you installed this new part for the extra sound/space. So, my questions are: 1) Do you have an amp anywhere? Does this need one to drive the sound? 2) Are you still happy with the sound? 3) Would you do anything differently now? Thanks bro! Running just the 2 speakers in the front as I have been is painful!

[@76vette]

Hey Michael, Good questions, 1. Yes, the subwoofer (Kenwood KSC-SW11) has a built-in amp. 2. I’m very happy with the sound quality. 3. I would install a better-quality head unit with Bluetooth. I hope you find my answers helpful and good luck with the audio system for your ‘75 Corvette. -Luis @ 76vette

[@mmackinnon123]

@@76vette Perfect! I ordered it all based on your recommendation! I didn't even realize the sub had a build in amp!

[@76vette]

@@mmackinnon123 Awesome. I’m sure you’re gonna love it. 😊👍🏻

[@chrissmith7669]

Looks very good.

[@76vette]

Thank you! 😊👍🏻

[@Mick_Will]

Where did you buy your speaker box and what's the name of it. Looks good.

[@76vette]

www.76vette.com/2021/07/install-autosound-speaker-soundbar-c3-corvette.html

[@albertbryant9835]

Great video. Can I get hooked.up to purchase this.sustem for my 1981 vette

[@76vette]

These soundbars are selling anywhere from $150 to $180 nowadays which, IMO, still is a great value considering the quality and how good they look. Eckler’s oftentimes offers a discount on $99-and-up purchases so you may want to check with them as far as availability. Their price also is one of the lowest on these speaker bars. bit.ly/3NBGOUX Thank you for watching! 😊👍🏻

[@Roy-sh1oj]

Hey Lou how is it going. I'm still sick from covid-19 last November. My car has been in this shop for a year now. No paint or engine but everything else.. I really bought a piece of shift when I got this one even tho you couldn't tell it. I bought that same speaker bar 5 years ago. I should have my car back before long then off to interior shop. I paid him 5 years ago. Any way I wanted that subwoofer you have but Amazon don't have it no more. Is there any other subwoofers you could recommend to me to get. A slim model? Thank you sir...

[@76vette]

Hey Roy. Give this link a try. It shows they have two available as of today: amzn.to/2WJtyZM Hope you get well soon. Take care.

[@Roy-sh1oj]

Hey Lou I got the subwoofer that you recommended. Should be here 9/15/21. Looks good in there website. I bet it's awesome in person. Thank you Sir. I'll let you know how everything turns out. Pictures coming soon on Instagram. Thanks Roy

[@76vette]

@@Roy-sh1oj Glad to hear it. Hope you really like it. I love mine! 😊👍🏻

[@mmackinnon123]

Ok, one last question! Did you run your sound bar to the kenwood amp/sub or back to the head unit? Also, did you run your front speakers to the kenwood as well or direct to the head unit? Currently I’ve got the Polk speakers running to head unit. So I’m trying to figure out what I need to do from here for them and the rear :) Thanks so much!

[@76vette]

I will check in a couple of days since I have to take apart the center console to replace the oil pressure gauge, but I think I ran the front speakers directly from the radio and the rear ones through the subwoofer since it needs an audio signal regardless. But I will have more details later this week. The main issue is working in a garage that feels like 110° F. 😓

[@mmackinnon123]

@@76vette wow that was fast! Sounds great man! No rush I’m not gonna finish this install probably till next weekend as I’m on call this weekend

[@76vette]

Hey Michael, As far as I can tell, I ran four speaker channels from the radio, front and rear. The rear speakers go from the radio to the subwoofer and also to the sound bar, so the subwoofer is part of the system while it’s on. If I were to urn it off, the sound bar should still work. I hope this helps. I have all speaker wires wrapped and under the carpeting so it’s pretty hard to get to them for me to trace individually.

[@mmackinnon123]

@@76vette thanks!!! I have a sub out rca cord too. So I think I have to connect that and both right and left wires

[@mmackinnon123]

@@76vette just wanted to update you! Got it all installed and it sounds great! Just working on where to run the rear speaker wires to hide them but otherwise it’s all in!

[@edgargalvan1313]

What’s the quality of those speakers 🔊 do they sound good

[@76vette]

So far so good. And they’re easy to replace if need be.

[@buchmannray]

How do you like the sound output. I have the same ones here, just not in the Corvette yet

[@76vette]

I was showing the system to a friend a few days ago and I turned the subwoofer off. To my surprise the soundbar sounded better than I expected, but the subwoofer adds so much richness to the sound. But either way, I love it!

[@garykuter]

Where did you buy those speakers for $120

[@76vette]

Bought them about a year ago from an eBay seller. I’ve heard the price has gone up since then though. Thank you for watching! 😊👍🏻

[@Kevkelly99]

Can I fit this in a 1981

[@76vette]

Yes. Actually, it fits all coupes, 1963-1982 😊👍🏻

[@waynecampora5647]

Where did you purchase you soundbar

[@76vette]

Bought it from Speedway Motors on eBay. Best price I could find and free shipping. Link on my latest blog post at www.76vette.com/2021/07/install-autosound-speaker-soundbar-c3-corvette.html 😊👍🏻