CLA Speaker Upgrade: Ultimate Sound, Effortless Power

Elevate your Mercedes-Benz CLA’s audio with a speaker upgrade for clearer highs, deeper bass, and a truly immersive listening experience. This guide breaks down everything you need to know for a successful CLA speaker upgrade, ensuring better sound and effortless power integration

Welcome to MercedesBlue, where we demystify the world of Mercedes-Benz ownership. Many CLA owners find the factory audio system good, but perhaps not quite living up to the luxury and refinement of their car.

You might be yearning for more detail in your music, a richer bassline, or simply the ability to turn up the volume without distortion. It’s a common desire, and thankfully, the solution is often more accessible than you think. An upgraded speaker system can transform your daily drives into concert-hall experiences.

This guide is designed to walk you through the entire process of a CLA speaker upgrade. We’ll cover why it’s so worthwhile, the key components to consider, and how to approach the installation whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or looking for professional help. Get ready to unlock the ultimate sound and enjoy effortless power delivery for your Mercedes-Benz CLA.

Why Upgrade Your CLA Speakers? The Mercedes-Benz Sound Experience

Your Mercedes-Benz CLA is a marvel of engineering, blending performance, luxury, and cutting-edge technology. The audio system should complement this, not compromise it. While factory systems are designed to be adequate for a broad audience, they often use components that prioritize cost-effectiveness over absolute sound fidelity. This can result in:

• Limited Frequency Range: Missing out on the subtle details in music – the crispness of cymbals, the warmth of an acoustic guitar, or the full impact of a bass drum.
• Distortion at Higher Volumes: Pushing the factory speakers too hard can lead to muddy sound, making your music less enjoyable.
• Lack of Dynamic Range: The difference between the quietest and loudest parts of a song isn’t as pronounced, leading to a less engaging listening experience.
• “Tinny” or “Muddy” Sound: A general lack of clarity and definition in the audio.

Upgrading your speakers addresses these limitations directly. High-quality aftermarket speakers are engineered to reproduce sound with greater accuracy and clarity across a wider frequency spectrum. They handle more power, allowing for cleaner sound at higher volumes, and offer a richer, more dynamic listening experience that truly matches the premium feel of your Mercedes-Benz.

Understanding Your CLA’s Speaker System

Before diving into upgrades, it’s helpful to understand the factory speaker configuration of your Mercedes-Benz CLA. While specific configurations can vary slightly by year and trim level (e.g., standard audio, Burmester® surround sound system for Mercedes-Benz models), most CLAs employ a multi-speaker setup to create a balanced soundstage.

Common speaker locations include:

• Front Doors: Typically house a mid-range driver and a tweeter, or a component system with separate drivers.
• Dashboard: Often a center channel speaker for enhanced vocal clarity and surround effects, or additional tweeters.
• Rear Doors/Side Panels: Similar to the front doors, usually with mid-range drivers and tweeters.
• Under Seats: Sometimes subwoofers are located here to provide low-frequency bass.

Identifying your current setup is crucial for selecting compatible upgrades. For example, if you have component speakers (separate woofer and tweeter) in the front doors, you’ll likely want to replace them with a similar component set. If you have coaxial speakers (tweeter integrated into the woofer), you might opt for direct replacements or a component set for a more significant improvement.

External Link: For detailed information on specific Mercedes-Benz audio system configurations, consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual or the official Mercedes-Benz technical documentation if available. Understanding your car’s electrical system is also a good idea; resources like Dummies.com’s guide on finding car wiring diagrams can be invaluable for DIY installation.

Choosing the Right CLA Speaker Upgrade Components

The world of aftermarket car audio can seem overwhelming, but focusing on a few key aspects will help you make the best choice for your CLA.

1. Speaker Type: Component vs. Coaxial

This is the most fundamental decision. Each has its pros and cons:

• Coaxial Speakers: These are integrated units where the tweeter (high frequencies) is mounted in the center of the woofer (mid and low frequencies).
  • Pros: Easier to install (often a direct replacement), generally more affordable, good for a straightforward upgrade.
  • Cons: Soundstage can be less refined as high and low frequencies emanate from the same point.
• Component Speakers: These systems separate the woofer and tweeter, connected by an external crossover.
  • Pros: Superior sound quality and imaging due to separate driver placement, allows for more precise tuning, creates a more natural and immersive soundstage.
  • Cons: More complex installation due to mounting separate components and running wires, typically more expensive.

For a significant sonic improvement in your CLA, component speakers are often the preferred choice, especially for the front doors where precise sound imaging is most critical.

2. Size and Fitment

Your CLA has specific speaker sizes in each location. Common sizes found in many Mercedes-Benz models include:

• Front Doors: Typically 6.5-inch woofers and 1-inch tweeters.
• Rear Doors: Similar to the front, often 6.5-inch.
• Dashboard/Center Channel: Can vary, often smaller drivers.

It’s essential to confirm the exact sizes for your specific CLA model year. Reputable audio retailers and manufacturer websites usually provide vehicle-specific fitment guides. You may also need mounting adapters (often referred to as “baffles” or “spacers”) to ensure a secure and flush fit for aftermarket speakers, as their mounting depths and bolt patterns can differ from factory units.

3. Sensitivity Rating

Sensitivity indicates how loud a speaker can play with a given amount of power. It’s measured in decibels (dB) at 1 meter with 1 watt of power (dB/W/m). A higher sensitivity rating means the speaker will play louder with the same amplifier power.

• High Sensitivity (90 dB or higher): Ideal if you’re keeping your factory head unit or a modest aftermarket amplifier. These speakers are more efficient and will provide a significant volume increase without needing excessive power.
• Lower Sensitivity (below 90 dB): These speakers often have better sound quality but require more power to achieve satisfying volume levels. They are better suited for systems with a powerful aftermarket amplifier.

For a CLA speaker upgrade aimed at “effortless power” and improved sound without a complete overhaul of the amplifier, look for speakers with a sensitivity rating of 90 dB or higher.

4. Power Handling (RMS vs. Peak)

Speakers have power handling ratings, usually listed as RMS (Root Mean Square) and Peak. RMS is the continuous power the speaker can handle, while Peak is the maximum power it can withstand for short bursts. Always focus on the RMS rating for a true indication of the speaker’s capabilities and to avoid damaging them.

• Matching Power: If you’re powering speakers directly from your head unit or a small amplifier, choose speakers with RMS ratings that match or are slightly higher than your amplifier’s output per channel.
• Aftermarket Amplifiers: If you plan to install an aftermarket amplifier, select speakers that can handle the amplifier’s output to take full advantage of the added power.

For a balanced upgrade, selecting speakers that can handle the power of your factory system (or a modest upgrade) is key to achieving “effortless power.”

5. Sound Quality and Brand Reputation

Listen to speakers if possible, or read reviews from reputable audio publications and enthusiasts. Brands known for quality audio components include:

• Hertz: Known for vibrant, dynamic sound.
• Focal: Offers exceptional clarity and detail.
• JL Audio: Renowned for robust build quality and powerful sound.
• Kicker: A popular choice balancing performance and value.
• Alpine: Offers well-rounded sound across their range.
• Bose/Harman Kardon: Sometimes offer direct-fit upgrade kits for specific luxury vehicles, though often at a premium.

Consider the type of music you listen to. Some speakers excel with rock and electronic music, while others are better suited for classical or jazz.

The Importance of the Crossover

When upgrading to component speakers, the crossover is a vital, often overlooked, component. It’s an electronic circuit that divides the audio signal, sending the correct frequencies to the appropriate drivers.

• High Frequencies (Treble): Sent to the tweeter.
• Mid and Low Frequencies (Bass/Mids): Sent to the woofer.

This prevents damage to the drivers (e.g., a woofer trying to reproduce super-high frequencies) and ensures each speaker operates within its optimal range. This leads to clearer sound, better power handling, and a more refined audio experience.

Some component speaker systems come with passive crossovers included. These are typically installed near the separate woofer and tweeter. Active crossovers, which require more complex integration with amplifiers, offer even more precise control but are usually beyond a beginner-level speaker upgrade.

Planning Your CLA Speaker Upgrade: DIY vs. Professional Installation

Deciding whether to tackle the installation yourself or hire a professional is a key step. Both have advantages:

DIY Installation: The Rewarding Challenge

For the hands-on enthusiast, a DIY speaker upgrade can be incredibly rewarding. You gain a deep understanding of your car’s audio system and save on labor costs.

Pros:

• Significant cost savings on labor.
• Personal satisfaction and learning experience.
• Complete control over the installation process.

Cons:

• Requires time, patience, and the right tools.
• Risk of damaging panels or electrical components if not careful.
• May take longer than expected, especially for a first-time installer.

Professional Installation: Convenience and Expertise

If you’re short on time, lack the confidence, or simply prefer to have the job done right the first time by experts, professional installation is a great option.

Pros:

• Expertise ensures proper fitment and wiring.
• Saves you time and potential frustration.
• Often comes with a warranty on labor.
• Access to specialized tools and techniques.

Cons:

• Higher overall cost due to labor fees.
• Less personal involvement in the process.

Recommendation: For a beginner-friendly guide, we’ll focus on the general steps involved, which can be applied to either approach. If you’re new to car audio, consider starting with a simpler upgrade (like coaxials in rear doors) or opting for professional installation for the more complex front-door component systems.

Step-by-Step: Your CLA Speaker Upgrade Guide

This guide outlines the general process for replacing door speakers. Remember to always consult your vehicle’s specific service manual or online resources for precise interior panel removal and speaker mounting procedures.

Tools You’ll Likely Need:

• Plastic trim removal tool kit (essential to avoid scratching panels)
• Phillips head screwdriver
• Torx bit set (various sizes)
• Socket set (metric)
• Wire stripper/crimper
• Electrical tape or heat shrink tubing
• Pliers
• Gloves and safety glasses
• Speaker wire adapters (crucial for a plug-and-play connection to the factory wiring harness)
• Mounting brackets/adapters (if aftermarket speakers don’t directly fit)

Step 1: Preparation and Safety

Disconnect the Battery: This is the MOST IMPORTANT step for safety. Locate your CLA’s battery (usually under the hood or in the trunk) and disconnect the negative terminal using a wrench. This prevents accidental shorts and protects your car’s electrical system.

Gather all your tools and new speakers. Ensure you have the correct speaker wire adapters for your Mercedes-Benz. These adapters plug into the factory speaker harness and provide standard terminals for your new speakers, avoiding the need to cut factory wires.

Step 2: Accessing the Speakers (Door Panels)

Be patient and methodical here. Car interior panels are held by clips and screws.

1. Locate Screws: Look for visible screws, often around the door handle, armrest, and window switch panel.
2. Remove Trim Pieces: Gently pry away decorative trim pieces using your plastic trim tools. Start from an edge and work your way around.
3. Remove Door Handle/Switch Cluster: The door handle or power window switch cluster often needs to be carefully pried out or has hidden screws.
4. Pry Off the Door Panel: Once all screws and smaller trim pieces are removed, use your trim tools to gently pry the main door panel away from the door frame. You’ll hear clips releasing. Work around the entire edge.
5. Support the Panel: Be careful not to yank the panel away. It might still be attached by a wire for the door handle or lock mechanism. Gently pull it out enough to access the speaker, then let it rest against your leg or hang it carefully (sometimes a hook is provided for this).

Step 3: Removing the Factory Speakers

With the door panel removed, you’ll see the factory speaker.

1. Disconnect Wiring: There will be a connector plugged into the speaker. Gently press the release tab and pull the connector off.
2. Unscrew the Speaker: The speaker is usually held in place by three or four screws. Remove these using the appropriate screwdriver or Torx bit.
3. Lift Out the Speaker: Carefully lift the factory speaker out of its mounting location.

Step 4: Installing the New Speakers

This is where your new components come into play.

1. Prepare New Speaker: If using component speakers, you’ll need to mount the tweeter as well. For doors, tweeters are often mounted in the mirror triangle or upper door panel area. This might require drilling or using adhesive mounts provided by the manufacturer. Consult your component speaker’s manual.
2. Connect Speaker Wire Adapter: Plug the speaker wire adapter into the factory wiring harness connector you just disconnected. Then, connect the wires from your new speaker to the adapter terminals. Pay close attention to polarity (+/-). Most speakers and adapters have markings. Connect positive (+) to positive and negative (-) to negative. Incorrect polarity can lead to poor bass response and a weak soundstage.
3. Mount the Speaker:
   • If your new speaker uses the same bolt pattern and depth as the factory one, it might fit directly.
   • If not, attach the appropriate mounting adapter to the door structure, then mount your new speaker to the adapter.
4. Test (Optional but Recommended): Before reassembling everything, briefly reconnect the negative battery terminal. Turn on your car’s stereo and play some music to ensure the new speaker is working correctly and sounds as expected. Disconnect the battery again afterward.

Step 5: Reassembly

The reassembly process is the reverse of removal.

1. Tuck Wiring: Ensure all wires are tucked away neatly and won’t get pinched.
2. Reattach Door Panel: Align the door panel with the clips and gently push it into place until all clips engage.
3. Reinstall Screws and Trim: Replace all screws, switch clusters, and trim pieces in their original locations.
4. Reconnect Battery: Reconnect the negative battery terminal.

Repeat these steps for each speaker you are upgrading.

Table: Speaker Upgrade Considerations for Your CLA

Here’s a quick reference for what to look for:

Feature	Beginner Focus (Plug & Play)	Advanced Focus (Best Performance)	Consider for CLA Upgrade
Speaker Type	Coaxial (easier install)	Component (better soundstage)	Component for front doors; Coaxial for rear as an option.
Size