Skar vs JL Audio Speakers, Subwoofers, and More

Are you tired of the endless debate between Skar vs JL Audio when talking about sound subwoofers for cars? While both manufacturers boast unique designs and features, which delivers the best performance and quality that’ll suit your preference?     

Our experts will untangle the distinctions between JL and Skar subwoofers, guiding you to make an informed decision that strikes the perfect balance for your audio needs.

History and Reputation of Skar Audio

The brilliant James E. Brown IV, Founder and CEO of Skar Audio, embarked on a quest in 1995 to revolutionize the automobile sound system sector through innovation and customer-centricity. 

Starting as a distributor for multiple brands, Skar rapidly carved a niche for itself as a distinguished brand by 1997. 

Renowned for its competitively priced, top-notch bass speakers, power amplifiers, and audio setups, Skar Audio has consistently adapted to the evolving technological landscape. 

Skar Audio VD-8 D2 Subwoofer installed in a car

Celebrating 20 years of success in 2015, Skar’s audio remains steadfast in its commitment to delivering cutting-edge, affordable products that cater to the diverse needs of both seasoned enthusiasts and newcomers to the car audio scene.

History and Reputation of JL Audio

JL Audio, founded in 1990 in Cape Coral, Florida, has thrived under the guidance of founder and president Jeff Haydock. 

Initially concentrating on automobile sound system amplifiers, the company has since broadened its horizons, exploring various product categories such as marine applications and home audio systems. 

JL Audio is celebrated for its top-tier, high-end car speakers for bass, with prices befitting their exceptional quality and performance. This technique has yielded remarkable results, enabling the company to secure a healthy market share. 

JL Audio C1-650

Headquartered in Miramar Beach, Florida, JL Audio has expanded its operations to include a manufacturing facility in Lane City, Texas, further solidifying its position as a leading force in the audio industry.

Comparing JL and Skar

By shedding light on the differences between JL Audio and Skar, you can make informed decisions based on their individual preferences and requirements.

Material Quality

JL Audio subwoofers utilize completely-formed, non-compressed paper cone structures, which are light in weight and minimize resonance, yielding crisp bass output. However, their durability may diminish with heavy use. 

Subwoofers of Skar, on the other hand, primarily employ paper cones that are pressed, which offer enhanced durability but exhibit greater resonance, leading to a slight reduction in audio quality.

Sound Quality

When evaluating sound quality, JL Audio is acclaimed for its exceptional clarity and precision, attributable to its all-molded, non-pressed paper cones that minimize resonance. 

JL Audio 10W0V3-4 W0V3 Series Subwoofer

Skar Audio, utilizing pressed paper cones, also delivers impressive sound quality but with slightly increased resonance. 

The choice between the two brands hinges on the listener’s preferences: unparalleled audio performance with JL Audio or the robust yet slightly less-refined sound quality offered by Skar Audio.

Enclosure

JL Audio speakers necessitate installation in prefabricated enclosures, which enhance output volume and safeguard against water or elemental damage. These substantial, robust enclosures cater to rival auto audio enthusiasts. 

Conversely, subwoofers of Skar Audio are designed for versatility, compatible with either ready-made housings or open-air setups without sacrificing audio fidelity or loudness.

This flexibility allows you to tailor you subwoofer setup according to your preferences.

Power

JL Audio speakers are designed to endure significant power, rendering them perfect for competitive automobile audio setups. Their durability surpasses most competitors, catering to this specific demographic. 

testing the Skar Audio IX-10

Subwoofers of Skar Audio, while designed for lower power handling, continue to deliver remarkable output and sound, positioning them as an optimal choice for budget-conscious consumers seeking high-quality subwoofers without necessitating excessive power.

Standout Features of Skar Audio

Skar Audio has a combination of unique design, versatile product offerings, and affordable pricing. With a commitment to striking a balance between durability and sound quality, Skar Audio caters to a wide range of consumers. 

Their adaptability in various installations and extensive selection of speakers and subwoofers make them an attractive option for budget-conscious enthusiasts seeking a quality audio experience.

Top-Notch Design

Focusing on design quality, Skar Audio showcases distinctive styling in models like the Dual 2 Ohm Subwoofer and LS17 Solo-Baric Subwoofers, setting them apart from competitors. 

JL Audio 10W0V3-4

Additionally, Skar Audio embraces evolving technologies, incorporating features like Bluetooth, USB connectivity, multi-channel DVD/CD players, DSP [1] controls, and more, ensuring their systems cater to modern, multifunctional requirements.

Versatile Speakers and Subwoofers

Moving on to performance, Skar Audio excels in offering a diverse range of top-quality speakers and bass units customized to suit personal tastes and automobile requirements.

Notable examples include the SA-Series 6″x9″ 3 Way Speakers, Platinum Series 10″ Subwoofers, and VVX-Series 6.5″ 2-Way Component Systems. 

Skar Audio SVR-15

With the extensive selection of Skar Audio, finding a perfect speaker solution to suit your needs can be a seamless experience.

Pros and Cons of Skar Audio

Pros
Cons

Standout Features of JL Audio

JL Audio prioritizes advanced technology, exceptional sound quality, and precision engineering. 

With a meticulous approach to design and production, we saw the use of premium materials and the incorporation of cutting-edge innovations. 

JL Audio 10TW1-2

We recommend JL Audio to audiophiles seeking unparalleled audio performance, making it a top choice if you prioritize sound fidelity and durability in you car audio systems.

Well-Constructed Build

JL Audio’s core ethos revolves around harnessing cutting-edge technology. The pursuit of superior sound quality commences during the design area, with meticulous involvement in every aspect of the way. 

This approach guarantees the selection of premium materials for creation and ensures that their embodies its most recent engineering breakthroughs.

Top Performing Audio Products

After integrating meticulously crafted components into a full speaker, JL Crafts raises the bar with vigorous testing to eradicate potential errors. 

Each speaker undergoes a comprehensive series of generated tests, including frequency scans, signal evaluations, distortion appraisals, and numerous other methods. 

Skar Audio TX65

This meticulous approach guarantees that every product achieves its maximum potential.

Pros and Cons of JL Audio

Pros
Cons

Why are Skar Audio Products Cheap?

These subwoofers are sourced from an importer or retailer possessing their manufacturing facilities. Upon receiving the components, the distributor rewraps the items in their branded packaging, incorporating their brand identity.

This results in “Skar Audio” instead of “Seismic Audio.” The approach significantly reduces production costs by eliminating the need for engineering, labor, and royalty payments. Skar Audio, therefore, offers its products at more competitive prices than rivals. 

Skar Audio VD-10 Subwoofer

By rebranding low-cost components, Skar Audio makes its products available at varying prices on platforms like Amazon or through various retailers. This rebranding strategy enables them to provide attractively priced options.

More brand comparisons here:

Conclusion

When examining JL Audio vs Skar side by side, it becomes apparent that their aesthetics share certain similarities. However, upon closer inspection, the modern appearance of Skar products contrasts with the classic design of JL Audio. 

Most importantly, both are quality audio tools in their own way, catering to different preferences among audio enthusiasts. 

Writer

Picture of Willie Greer
Willie Greer
Willie Greer is the founder of The Product Analyst. A cinephile, he has made it a personal quest to achieve the awesomest home theater possible. He now shares what he has learned through the years on the site, and has enlisted the help of tech-savvy colleagues in providing more insight about today’s most sought-after gadgets.