Factory-assembled Jeep Wrangler stereo systems come with eight standard speakers or nine brand speakers. You can get an immersive sound experience with the Alpine Premium Audio System with nine speakers, an overhead soundbar, subwoofer, and amplifier. It should be sufficient for the task if you only want something to listen to while driving.
However, if you are an audiophile and very particular about sound quality, you might find that the factory-fitted audio system is more on the average side. Fortunately, there are many aftermarket options available and, with some research, you should be able to find the one that meets your listening requirements and budget.
What is stereo sound?
Stereo or stereophonic sound is a sound system that uses two speakers or two channels for sound production. These two speakers are generally on the left and right sides of any electronic sound-producing system that uses stereo sound. That includes the Jeep Wrangler stereo systems. There may be a subwoofer for bass sounds.
Most music recording takes place with stereo sound. Audio devices such as headphones, earphones, boomboxes, CD and DVD players, and laptop speakers also use stereo systems. So, if listening to music is your only goal, the standard or branded Jeep Wrangler stereo systems can serve the purpose.
What is surround sound?
Surround sound or multi-channel sound is a sound system that uses multiple speakers or channels (at least five) for sound production. In the five-channel setup, there is a center speaker, a left speaker, a right speaker, a rear or surround left speaker, and a rear or surround right speaker. There is also a subwoofer. With a seven-channel surround sound system, in addition to the five speakers and subwoofer, there is a mid-left speaker and a mid-right speaker.
The multiple speakers of the surround sound system create an all-encompassing sound field and enable listeners to have an immersive experience. The volume and intensity of sound give a perception of depth. It is common in big-screen movies and video games.
Stereo sound vs. surround sound
Jeep Wrangler stereo systems and surround sound systems differ in the following ways:
• Stereo sound systems have two speakers and output sound through two channels. Surround sound systems have at least five speakers and more.
• Stereo sound systems may or may not have a subwoofer. Surround sound systems always have subwoofers.
• Stereo sound systems generally have a left speaker, right speaker, and subwoofer configuration known as 2.1 stereos. If there is no subwoofer, it is 2.0 stereo. Surround sound systems can have five speakers and subwoofer configuration, seven speakers and subwoofer configuration, and even nine speakers and subwoofer configuration.
• Stereo sound systems may have an integrated amplifier or may use a small, two-channel amplifier. Surround sound systems require a dedicated amplifier or an AV receiver.
• Stereo sound systems require minimum cable management. Surround sound systems have to manage more cables.
• Stereo sound systems may be easier to install than surround sound systems.
• Stereo sound is generally for music and television shows. Surround sound is more common for movies and video games.
• Stereo sound is suitable for small to medium spaces. Surround sound is more suited to large areas.
• Stereo sound systems may be less expensive and have lower power requirements than surround sound systems.
Which one should you get?
Jeep Wrangler stereo systems are probably the best choice if listening to music or other audio entertainment is important to you on your drives. If the standard setup or the upgrade option does not satisfy you, there are many excellent aftermarket stereo systems that you can choose. Of course, you can also install a surround sound system in your vehicle, but it may need a separate amplifier to convert the two-channel stereo sounds into multi-channel sounds.
The surround sound system can give you the immersive listening experience you desire, but it can also increase your speaker and installation costs, and you must take care that the sound does not get too overwhelming. Remember that surround sound systems are primarily for large spaces, and the interior of your Jeep Wrangler, however spacious it is, cannot be called a large space. Aside from the over-loud sound, there could placement concerns regarding the multiple speakers, amplifier, and subwoofer.