If you live in a cold climate, you need to equip your car accordingly. This means that you should invest in a set of quality-made snow tires and potentially even tire chains. Tire chains are designed to hang onto the road while driving on snow and ice by pushing the chain into the ground and thus maintaining traction.
All of this can be a bit tricky to understand, especially when you take into account different types of chains and all the features that come with them. In this article, we will tell you all you need to know about tire chains including which ones you can get, and how much tire chains cost.
As mentioned in the intro to this article, there are different versions of tire chains, some of them are more expensive than others. For starters, standard run-of-the mil tire chains for small passenger cars are likely going to set you back around $60 to $80 and these are the most popular ones out there.
Self-centering chains with automatic tensioning are a bit more advanced and thus usually cost upwards of $200-$300. If you own an SUV, a truck, or something even larger, you will have to pay even more money because the larger the chain, the higher the price tag.
Diamond tire chains are your typical types of chains that are constructed with metal chain links that form a diamond pattern. Depending on the amount of snow you encounter, you can change the angle of those diamond shapes in order to increase traction.
All of these diamond shapes combined make a metal mesh that surrounds the entirety of the tire and thus increases traction.
Standard diamond tire chains aren’t the easiest ones to mount and take off because they typically don’t always come with self-centering technologies. On the other hand, the benefit of a diamond tire chain is that it offers a higher contact surface with the ground and thus gives you more traction than most other types of chains. This makes these perfect for areas covered with lots of snow throughout the year.
What Are Cable Tire Chains?Cable tire chains represent a more streamlined, lighter, and easier-to-live-with version of the regular diamond tire chain. Even though cable tire chains also create a surrounding area around the tire, they don’t cover the entirety of the tire as effectively as a diamond chain does. Therefore, these chains use smaller links and thinner cables which make it a lot easier to mount and live with these chains.
The drawbacks are that these chains aren’t as effective at providing traction as diamond chains are. This means that these are typically being used for casuals and those who rarely wander into snow-covered areas. They are physically smaller which means that you can always keep them in your trunk without taking any space at all.
What Are Alternative Tire Chains?Alternative tire chains are not chains per se which means that these try to mimic the effects of a chain without being a chain at all. Even though chains do provide the best traction out of all these possible solutions, they can often be awkward and difficult to install. On the other hand, alternative fabric-made solutions can provide you with decent traction while also being really easy to live with and operate.
Other solutions include even smaller devices that only run through a small surface area of the tire. These do offer better traction but are the easiest to live with, install and take off.
Because they are so ergonomic and logical, they can be found across many cars in North America.
Preparation is the key to always having the right tool for the job. Because tire chains can easily damage your tires, your suspension, and even the roads you go over, you need to pick the perfect chain for your car and your driving environment. Investing in a rugged toolbox is also a good idea as you want to be able to organize and keep your chains so they can’t damage anything and can also last a long time.
Tire chains are made to fit specific tire sizes which means that you need to match your tire size with the size of the chain. Some modern chains can even fit different tire sizes, but these do require additional effort to set up properly and typically cost more money in the process.
Be sure to familiarize yourself with tire sizing which can easily be seen on the tire sidewall.
You can also write down the tire size code and give it to the clerk at a tire chain store so you don’t have to worry about picking the wrong size. It is imperative for you to go over your owner’s manual and see if there are any limitations or restrictions for your car as far as tire chains are concerned. Different cars come with different wheel well clearance so be sure to be extra careful in that regard.
What Are All The Tire Chain Class Designations?The Society of Automotive Engineers has come up with a system with which we can classify different types of chains in order not to make a mistake while buying them. These classes are separated by the minimum clearance they need in order to be safe and usable. The first class is called “Class S” which refers to cars with smaller wheel well clearances.
This Class is also separated into two groups, first one is Class S A with a minimum clearance of 37mm (1.
46”) while Class S B is rated at 15mm (0.59”) between the top of the wheel well and the top of the tire. The second class is “Class U” which also comes with a Class U A iteration with a minimum of 50 mm (1.97”) and a Class U B iteration with a minimum of 23mm (0.91”).
The last class is “Class W” which follows the same principle. Class W A is measured at a minimum of 63.5mm (2.50”) while Class W B is measured at a minimum of 38mm (1.50”). There are also many chains out there that aren’t certified with these classes which should be avoided if you don’t have enough experience to know regardless.
Do Tire Chains Come With Special Features?Tire chains are surprisingly advanced these days which means that they can come with all sorts of features that can help you handle chains a lot easier. Entry-level chains typically don’t come with anything special, besides maybe being able to fit different tire sizes.
More advanced chains come with features such as auto-adjustment in which the chain adjusts itself in place, quick-release mechanisms, drape over tire mechanisms, special titanium-made chains, assisted tensioning, and other similar solutions which make tire chain handling a lot easier but also increase the price by quite a bit.
There is always a possibility that you can damage both your tires and your wheels while carrying chains and there really isn’t a way how you can completely protect your tires. For starters, always use tire chains while driving on a significant amount of snow. Don’t drive your chains in places where the ground isn’t completely covered by snow as road contact can damage your tires and your chains as well.
You should also keep in mind that tire chains aren’t rated for speeds exceeding 20-30mph in most cases. There are heavy-duty chains out there that are rated for higher speeds, but this will increase the chances of damaging your tires and wheels either way.
Always double-check your tire chain fitment and always buy the correct chain size for your tires.
A good idea would always be to buy a separate set of cheap, yet adequate rims on which you can mount your winter tires on. This way you can safely store your shiny, good-looking wheels while your cheap (yet adequate) rims take all the beating.
Yes, different states have different regulations in regards to tire chains which means that you have to have tire chains in some states, but not in all of them. Some warmer states such as California don’t require snow chains, but signs will be posted on certain roads where snow chains are a necessity.
The state of New York requires you to have tire chains whenever a snow emergency has been declared. If you want to know more about your state and all the specifics and special guidelines, click here.
At the end of our “Tire Chains Cost” article, we can easily say that entry-level chains cost between $60-80 for a common small passenger car.
More advanced tire chains with special features can easily cost upwards of $200 or even $300. Larger cars with larger tires require larger chains which inevitably cost more money as well.
No matter which tire chain you go for, you need to be sure that it is the right tool for the job. Always double-check all the laws and regulations about tire chains in your state and never use tire chains when they aren’t needed.
Glacier 1042 Passenger Cable Tire Chain Set
Peerless Chain AutoTrac Passenger Chains
Autosock 697 Tire Chain Alternative
Konig CB-12 090 Snow Chains
Arnold Tractor Tire Chains
Tracgrabber Tire Traction Device
Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise.
We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.
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Our MethodologyWe can’t put our own hands on every item available. In these instances, we put our collective experience in journalism, research, and prior product testing to use to make our product picks. Items that are used by our own staff may get earnest endorsements as well, but we’ll never accept fees or bonuses to sell you stuff we’re not actually excited about. Affiliate revenue is always disclosed.
The Drive aggregates reviews and research from all over the internet to figure out which products are worth buying. We also put out shopping guides to help you understand how to assess the value of these things on your own. Knowledge is horsepower!
Glacier 1042 Passenger Cable Tire Chain Set
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The Glacier 10 1042 Passenger Tire Chain Set is designed to fit with any tire between 14 and 20 inches.
They fit seamlessly onto the tire, installing quickly and holding steadily in position. Adhering to all legislation relating to road safety and traction requirements, these chains are safe for normal use.
Plus, because of their non-invasive design, they won't void your car's warranty. The material consists of hardened steel, but the design is where it really stands out. The chains consist of small, cylindrical pieces that connect loosely to prevent the chains from snapping. Because of this feature, the chains grip powerfully to slippery surfaces, whether that’s snow or ice.
It’s worth noting that the trade-off for the cable-cross design is there being more metal held close together. As a result, extreme cold can make the chains brittle and result in breakage if you encounter extreme cold. Give them a bit of time to acclimate to a temperature change before hitting the road.
Peerless Chain AutoTrac Passenger Chains
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If you’re looking for a set of chains that you can use year after year, the Peerless Chain AutoTrac Passenger Chains are a worthy candidate.
Manufactured using polycarbonate material, these chains include large, well-structured links that are built to resist impact. At 3.8 millimeters for the cross chains and a 1.2-centimeter profile, these passenger-vehicle chains fit multiple tire sizes. In fact, the wide compatibility rating and self-tightening abilities are where the real value shines through. Users report that even with no experience setting up tire chains, these are easy to get into place. There’s no need to re-tighten them; and, because of the diamond pattern, they center on the wheel automatically. At over 11 pounds, these chains are heavier than most other selections, helping promote durability.
One thing to keep in mind is that the value of these chains shows up over the long term. It might be a bit more of an upfront investment, but these chains can last for years. Instead of replacing your chains frequently, you can hang onto these over the long term.
Autosock 697 Tire Chain Alternative
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If your area is not prone to lengthy winters, the Autosock 697 TireChain Alternative is definitely worth looking into.
They are made to serve as a temporary way to improve your tires’ traction. Unlike standard chains, these wraps go over the whole tire with a mesh-like material that stretches to fit. Because they consist of textile instead of metal, there is no risk of scratching your tires, rims, or wheel bed.
Slip them into place on front or rear tires. Once in position, a rough textile covers the part of the tire that contacts the ground. The remainder of the fabric is a breathable weave that protects your rims and uses crossing straps to hold steadily in position. Both lightweight and machine-washable, you can use these chain replacements whenever snow is in the forecast and remove them when the ground is dry once again.
Bear in mind that these are meant as a temporary solution to slippery ground. If you are facing weeks (or months) of cold weather, it’s better to opt for actual chains. These are only suitable for casual use, as an extra precaution on the road.
Konig CB-12 090 Snow Chains
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When you’re contending with both challenging roads and slippery surfaces, the tension on Konig CB-12 090 Snow Chains is ideal.
The manual adjustments let you precisely install this set of two chains on a wide range of tires. With a clearance of 12 millimeters, these chains don’t risk any damage to your wheel wells. Requiring little work to install them, these chains slip on easily and tighten with limited effort. Made out of high-quality alloy, these chains grip easily into ice and snow. However, the small acute angles on the diamond pattern make them suitable for asphalt surfaces as well. Receiving certification from TUV (translating to tested for safety), these chains are a low-effort, high-reward option. Earning an honorable mention for their wide compatibility and clever structure, if you drive a car or a truck, these are a terrific option.
Keep in mind that, because of the nature of the metal, these chains may get brittle in the extreme cold or loosen in heat. To avoid any issues, try to park your vehicle indoors and check the chains before you start driving.
Tracgrabber Tire Traction Device
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Looking to save time while remaining safe on the road? Consider the Tracgrabber Tire Traction Device.
Unlike other snow and ice-gripping solutions, this option installs in mere minutes. Instead of covering the entire tire with a layer of chains, it features a single strap that wraps around the tire laterally. The set comes with four straps (one for each wheel) and fits tires up to 40 inches. You can find these devices for trucks and SUVs as well as larger vehicles. The strap attaches via a D-clip closure which you tighten after running it through the tire. After it’s in place, you can get unstuck quickly. Plus, unlike standard chains, it won’t create issues if you hit a dry patch of road. An enhancement to your winter tires, the TracGrabber makes your vehicle more winter-ready.
Bear in mind that these chains are not a preventative measure. If you know that the truck is likely to get stuck and that you won’t be handling dry roads, it’s better to go with metal chains. These ice-gripping devices are better to keep in your truck as a part of your emergency kit for roadside repairs.
You won't be disappointed with the Glacier 10 1042 Passenger Tire Chain Set.
It's simple, easy to install and works wonders in snow and ice.
The traditional type of tire chain, these feature strings of metal chain links, organized in a diamond structure. If you’re facing more snow, the angle of the diamond vertices should be smaller. The diamond pattern works together to make a mesh pattern that covers the whole tire. Since this type of chain has a higher contact surface with the ground, it offers the best traction. As a result, diamond tire chains are better for places that get frequent, heavy snow.
A streamlined version of the original tire chains invented in 1904, the cable design uses the same steel material.
This sort of tire chain features spaced-out, lateral metal cables which link to a chain that runs over the circumference of the tire. By separating the cables, it is easier to brake the vehicle. Typically, these chains have small links, helping them stay lightweight while still optimizing traction. Because they are usually smaller and with a lower profile, you can find these for the smallest wheel wells. This type of chain is ideal for casual use in areas that get medium amounts of snow.
While they might not technically be a type of snow chain, they serve the same purpose: improving tire grip on winter roads. Chains can be heavy and awkward to install. To save space and make it easier to get set up, you can opt for an alternative. Popular options include a textile cover that uses thick fabric to keep traction with the ground. Others focus on a smaller surface area, with a thin yet rugged material working to grip the ground.
These are ideal if your area is not prone to much snow and you simply want to be prepared. Compact, lightweight, and easy to store, this is a suitable option for a large part of America.
In order to keep a hold on your tire while also gripping the road, the chain requires substantial tension. Back in the day, tension needed to be applied manually. However, modern developments include self-tightening technology. Basically, there are ratchets positioned across the circumference of the chain. These spaced-out tools tighten the chain while you move the vehicle. By eliminating the slack, you get improved traction and avoid the hassle of tightening them after you’ve driven for a bit. Keep in mind that because ratchets are a moving part, they are the most vulnerable to breaking and can be difficult to replace.
Since you can’t drive on dry ground with chains, nor the highway, you need to be able to remove them quickly. If you turn onto a road that’s been cleared, you’ll need to take the chains off. Tire chains that include an automatic release let you remove them more efficiently. Be sure that the quick-release feature doesn’t engage without your command. Usually, there is either a lever or a pull mechanism that controls the release. Check that it is hidden and not likely to get triggered by accident. Provided it’s of good quality, this feature makes it far easier to deal with tire chains.
This feature refers to both the chain pattern and the design of the links themselves. Depending on the layout of the chain, be it diamond, ladder, or rectangular, the traction differs.
Diamond layouts and diagonal patterns are suited for vehicles with ABS systems. Rectangular layouts are suitable for icy and snowy roads, while the ladder pattern is common for off-roading vehicles. In terms of the links themselves, lighter snows in low-humidity areas benefit from smaller individual chain parts. Heavier snow (like the kind you make snowballs out of) calls for larger individual links. Assessing this feature is about both your vehicle type and the climate in your area.
Most tire chains will cost you around $100. Don't spend too much more than that.
You've got questions. The Drive has answers.
Q. Do chains ruin your tires?On snow or ice, chains are fine for your tires.
If you’re driving on pavement and dry ground, you can harm both the road and your tires. Take the chains off if you encounter a road that’s been thoroughly plowed to prevent damage. In cold weather, both the metal chains and your tires are more vulnerable to damage. Exercise extra caution.
Because you’re using snow chains in already challenging road conditions, don’t go too fast. Stick to 30 miles per hour (maximum) to prevent any problems. Chains make it more difficult to brake, especially if the surface is dry. Slower speeds help avoid issues.
Q. Is it okay to leave snow chains on overnight?There should be no issue leaving tire chains on overnight. They won’t damage your tires and it won’t compromise the fit of the chains themselves. If the temperature drops significantly overnight, give metal chains a chance to acclimate to the cold before driving extensively on them.
The law varies from state to state. Many allow them during certain periods of the year on certain roads.
In Russia, car owners often face off-road conditions. To increase the cross-country ability of the car when overcoming difficult sections of the road, special devices are produced - snow chains. Despite the name, snow chains are not only intended for use in icy conditions.
Snow chains are designed to increase the patency of vehicles while driving on difficult road sections. They prevent wheel slippage and are used for driving in off-road conditions - on snow, ice, mud, as well as on loose, unstable soils. They are simple in design, very easy to use and can be used at any time of the year. It is not recommended to use snow chains on smooth paved roads, as this adversely affects the condition of the tires and the road surface.
Chains are matched to the wheel size and off-road type.
These products can be used for cars, trucks, SUVs, forklifts and other types of vehicles. The package includes chains for two wheels.
Snow chains are chains adjacent to the sidewalls of the tire (longitudinal branches) connected to each other by transverse chain branches (lugs). The advantages of snow chains are maximum efficiency, compactness when removed, ease of installation. Installing snow chains on the two drive wheels takes 5 to 15 minutes.
Advantages of our products
First, is quality. Snow chains are manufactured in accordance with TU 4591-001-60692599-2013. For the manufacture of snow chains, a high-strength G80 chain is used, which guarantees the reliability and durability of the product.
First second , - ease of execution of snow chains. Thanks to the simple design of links and locks, even a beginner can put the chain on the wheel without any problems.
Third , - we manufacture a wide range of snow chains, single and twin sets of chains, as well as snow chains with various types of chain pattern: "ladder", "honeycomb", "zigzag", "snake" and their combinations on paired sets.
Fourthly , - domestic products are much cheaper than foreign counterparts. Thus, choosing snow chains for your vehicles from a domestic manufacturer, you not only get a reliable, high-quality product, but also save your money. All anti-skid chains are completed with passports, instructions for use and putting on the chain.
Location at the store
Kiev, vul.
Velyka Kiltseva, 2a
Kiev, st. Smolenska 31-33 building 1
(157)
Kiev, st. Kazimir Malevich, 86d
(108)
Kiev, Stepan Banderi avenue, 8
(145)
Kyiv, Perova Boulevard, 40
(148)
Kiev, Kharkiv highway, 1
(142)
Kiev, s. Gatne
(161)
Odessa, st. Visotsky 2a
(136)
Odessa, Heavenly Hundred Ave 3а
(130)
Kiev, Mykoli Bazhan avenue, 24/1
(144)Price, UAH
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1
(10)2 (237)
3 (61)
4
(20)Rosemary
10" (25cm) (1)
3.
5" (9cm) (4)
4" (10cm) (52)
4x6" (10x15cm) (8)
5-5.5" (13-14cm) (72)
5x7" (13x18cm) (13)
6-6.5" (16-17cm) (98)
6x8" (15x20cm)
(8)6x9" (15x23cm) (69)
7x10" (18x25cm)
(4)8" (20cm) (4)
Vikonanny
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3 (29)
4 (293)
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(2)
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composite
(16)mylar (8)
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(159)paper presses (3)
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(16)
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(241)Mounting depth, mm
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Nіmechchina (2)
China (328)
France (1)
Code: 289230
in the presence
JBL Stage2 coaxial speaker system 624
2399
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Code: 2
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JBL Stage3 coaxial speaker system 627
3149
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Code: 289232
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1399
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Code: 289231
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JBL Stage2 coaxial speaker system 524
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Code: 289229
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JBL Stage2 coaxial speaker system 9634
3199
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Code: 331595
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Coaxial speaker system JBL STAGE1 621
1945
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Code: 241015
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Shuttle SKYLOR Slim SLM-1622 coaxial speaker system
800
UAH
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JBL Stage3 coaxial speaker system 427
2249
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Code: 180171
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Coaxial speaker system Focal RCX-165
1869
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2349
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Code: 2
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4099
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Code: 241014
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686
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1082
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2149
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889
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The loudness of the sound is allowed by the speakers with optimal characteristics.
The car is equipped with acoustic systems with optimal characteristics. To avoid victorious additional columns, stationary speakers are installed. You can buy cheap acoustics for your car in the online store avtozvuk.ua. On the site of presentations there is a wide selection of speakers, speakers, presentations of customer reviews.
We sell round and oval speakers. Installing acoustics in a car, choose the following work until the installation date:
On one axis there are 2-5 smog viprominuvannya. Different frequency ranges play around with dynamics. In the design of the transmission of different frequency filters (crossover). This group has both budget and premium models. You can buy loudspeakers with good sounding at a reasonable price on the site avtozvuk.ua. There is a wide range of autoacoustics in the online catalog of presentations. Choose a model with excellent characteristics not in stock difficult. In the chat, you can ask the food about the products. Delivery is arranged by a carrier in Kiev, in other regions of Ukraine, which is convenient for you.
Oleg
03/15/2023
Good solid clean sound. Too much bass too. The top is clear and transparent. The upper middle is subjectively a bit lacking. They got into regular places in Renault DUSTER without alterations. Can't compare to stock speakers. Before them stood Morel Coax Tempo 5. In comparison with them, the bass is noticeably more powerful, but the upper mids are not as bright and velvety as those of the "Morels".
The top is transparent and flawless. Great product for this money. Even without discounts. And with discounts: take-take-take while they give!!! :)
Perevagi
Clear sound, strong bass.
Nedolіki
Bought for 2649, on the same day the price was reduced by almost half a thousand hryvnia :))))
more eleven vіdgukovіvAndriy
10.03.2023
Having installed on the F22, the replacement of the regular HI-FI speakers, the central one and the IC BMW 100L at the front door, even more clear sound, richer than the regular ones. Stay at the staff without any problems, that garno works with the staff, so nothing needs to be changed.
Perevagi
Clear sound, better than standard HK and HIFI
Nedoliki
None
Pavlo
03/06/2023
900 Putting the back on the podium.
Stand at the door Kicx, radio jvs kd avx 2. I'm all in power. Perevagi
Pure sound.
Shortfalls
Not found yet.
more 1 commentaryStolyarenko Yury Mykolayovich
02/19/2023
The speakers are good, the sound is clean, pleasant, not as usual compared to the factory. Another role is played by good wires from the factory to the car as thin on Tetris. I think it will be even better to replace them, they may not take out the full potential of the speakers)
Perevagi
Clean good sound. Big warranty
Short
No
more 13 vіdgukovіvRuslan
12.
02.2023
Work is already 2 years
Advantages
Price
Shortfalls
Nema
more 4 commentsPETRO
07.02.2023
Up to їх stood JBL GT6-4 I recommend !
Perevagi
JBL capacity price more 7 vіdgukovіv
Oleksandr
02/05/2023
Regularly becoming a Lanos without any problems. I won’t say that I felt a difference with regular speakers, there was no wow, but there was definitely a difference. Bass did not appear, low and high frequencies do not vibrate, rather the sound became more pure and "dense".
Goods
Not seen good
Shortfalls
Not showing yet
more 81 commentaryYuriy
07.12.2022
The speakers were bought in the rear shelf, under the Chinese radio, with the sound of satisfaction, deep bass receiving clear sound, but to explore the potential of this model Garnet sellers win their work, young people
Perevagi
Pure bass sound, amazing sound without a bass booster
Nedoliki
Nemae
more 9 vіdgukovіvVitaly
10/20/2022
wonderful speakers.
mounted them in a plastic backpack. playing is the bomb. advise
Perevagi
price quality size
Nedolіki
no
more 1 commentaryVictor
08/31/2022
A good speaker fit perfectly instead of the standard Astra N Plays without wheezing
Perevagi
Price and quality
Short cuts
No
more 5 vіdgukovіvCar radios
Component systems
Speaker stands
Speaker grilles
Stamped clamps
0 Speaker cable
03
Stats
Completed
Sound alignment 6x9" JBL / Focal / Ground Zero.
