Kia Soul Sound System Upgrade

Are you tired of the lackluster audio experience in your Kia Soul? You’re not alone. Many Kia Soul owners love their funky, versatile vehicles but feel let down by the factory sound system. The good news? Upgrading your Kia Soul’s audio setup is completely doable and can transform your driving experience.

This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about upgrading your Kia Soul sound system, from basic improvements to complete overhauls.

Understanding Your Kia Soul’s Factory Sound System

Before diving into upgrades, it helps to understand what you’re working with. The Kia Soul comes with several different audio options depending on the model year and trim level:

• Base model: Usually equipped with a basic 4-speaker system
• Plus (+) models: Often feature a 6-speaker system
• Exclaim (!) models: Some come with premium audio systems like the Harman Kardon or Infinity systems with 8-10 speakers

The factory systems, particularly in the base models, often lack power, clarity, and bass response. The speakers are typically basic paper cone designs that don’t deliver the richness and detail audiophiles crave.

Why Upgrade Your Kia Soul Sound System?

Upgrading your car’s audio system offers several benefits:

1. Better sound quality: Enjoy clearer vocals, crisper highs, and deeper bass
2. Increased volume without distortion: Factory systems often distort at higher volumes
3. Enhanced driving experience: Make those long commutes and road trips more enjoyable
4. Personalized sound: Tailor the audio to your specific listening preferences
5. Better resale value: Quality audio upgrades can make your car more attractive to potential buyers

Planning Your Kia Soul Sound System Upgrade

The key to a successful audio upgrade is careful planning. Consider these factors:

Budget Considerations

Sound system upgrades can range from under $200 for basic speaker replacements to $2,000+ for complete premium systems. Set a budget before you start and prioritize components that will give you the biggest improvement for your money.

Determining Your Audio Goals

Ask yourself what matters most:

• Do you want earth-shaking bass?
• Are you seeking crystal-clear vocals and instruments?
• Do you need louder volume without distortion?
• Are you looking for better audio while keeping a stock appearance?

Your goals will guide your component selection and installation approach.

Step-by-Step Upgrade Options for Your Kia Soul

Let’s explore the various components you can upgrade, starting with the simplest and most cost-effective options.

1. Speaker Replacements: The Easiest Starting Point

Replacing your factory speakers delivers the biggest bang for your buck in sound quality improvement. The Kia Soul can accommodate:

• 6.5″ or 6.75″ speakers in the front doors
• 6.5″ speakers in the rear doors or rear deck (depending on model year)
• 1″ tweeters in the A-pillars or dash (in some models)

Recommended speaker brands for Kia Soul:

• JL Audio
• Focal
• Rockford Fosgate
• Kicker
• Alpine
• Infinity

When selecting speakers, look for:

• Higher sensitivity ratings (87dB or higher) for better efficiency
• Quality materials like polypropylene cones and silk or composite tweeters
• Power handling appropriate for your system

Installation tip: Speaker adapters are often necessary for the Kia Soul. Brands like Metra offer vehicle-specific adapters to ensure proper fit.

2. Adding an Amplifier: Power Up Your Sound

The factory head unit in your Kia Soul likely doesn’t provide enough power for upgraded speakers. Adding an amplifier will:

• Deliver cleaner power to your speakers
• Allow higher volume without distortion
• Provide more control over your sound

For a basic system, look for a 4-channel amplifier with 50-75 watts RMS per channel. If you’re adding a subwoofer, consider a 5-channel amp or a separate mono amplifier for the sub.

Amplifier mounting locations in the Kia Soul:

• Under the front seats (compact amps only)
• In the rear cargo area
• Against the rear seats

Remember to account for proper ventilation and accessibility when mounting your amplifier.

3. Subwoofer Integration: Add Depth to Your Music

The Kia Soul’s compact size doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy great bass. Several subwoofer options work well:

Enclosed subwoofer boxes:

• 8″ or 10″ subwoofers fit nicely in the rear cargo area
• Compact powered subwoofers can fit under seats in some models

Custom subwoofer installations:

• The rear cargo area can accommodate custom enclosures
• Some owners create stealthy installations in the spare tire well

Popular subwoofer sizes for the Kia Soul include 8″, 10″, and 12″, with 10″ providing a good balance of bass response and space efficiency.

4. Head Unit Replacement: Control Center Upgrade

Replacing the factory head unit can be challenging in newer Kia Soul models due to integrated dash designs. However, it’s very doable in older models and offers benefits like:

• Better sound processing
• More connectivity options (Bluetooth, USB, aux inputs)
• Expanded EQ controls
• Smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto

If you have a newer Kia Soul with an integrated infotainment system, you might consider keeping the factory head unit and adding a digital signal processor (DSP) instead.

5. Sound Deadening: The Secret Weapon

One often overlooked upgrade is sound deadening material. Adding sound deadening to your Kia Soul:

• Reduces road noise and vibration
• Improves bass response by minimizing panel resonance
• Creates a better acoustic environment for your new system

Focus on treating:

• Front and rear doors
• Floor pan
• Rear cargo area
• Wheel wells

Brands like Dynamat, Kilmat, and Noico offer quality sound deadening materials that are relatively easy to install.

DIY vs. Professional Installation

While many audio upgrades can be DIY projects, some aspects require specialized knowledge:

DIY-friendly upgrades:

• Basic speaker replacements
• Adding enclosed subwoofers
• Installing sound deadening material

Consider professional installation for:

• Complex wiring and integration with factory systems
• Custom fabrication work
• Amplifier installation with proper power wiring

A professional installation typically costs $300-$800 depending on system complexity but ensures everything works correctly and safely.

Real-World Kia Soul Audio System Builds

Let’s look at some practical upgrade paths for different budgets:

Budget Build ($300-$500)

• Replace front and rear door speakers
• Add sound deadening to doors
• Keep factory head unit

Mid-Level Build ($800-$1,200)

• Quality component speakers front and rear
• 4-channel amplifier
• 10″ subwoofer in custom or pre-fabricated enclosure
• Sound deadening throughout the vehicle

Audiophile Build ($1,500-$2,500+)

• High-end component speakers
• Digital signal processor (DSP)
• Multiple amplifiers (speakers and subwoofer)
• Custom subwoofer installation
• Comprehensive sound deadening
• Possible head unit replacement or integration

Kia Soul-Specific Installation Tips

The Kia Soul has some unique characteristics to consider during installation:

• Door panels remove relatively easily but have multiple clip points
• The A-pillars can be removed for access to factory tweeters
• Power wire can be routed through the driver’s side firewall grommet
• The rear cargo area offers flexible mounting options for amplifiers and subwoofers

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with careful planning, you might encounter some challenges:

Issue: Speaker fitment problems

• Solution: Use vehicle-specific mounting brackets and speaker adapters

Issue: Electrical noise (whine or hiss)

• Solution: Check grounding points and use noise filters if necessary

Issue: Battery drain

• Solution: Ensure proper power management and consider a battery upgrade if installing high-power systems

Issue: Loss of factory features

• Solution: Use integration modules designed to retain steering wheel controls and other factory functions

Final Thoughts: Transform Your Kia Soul’s Sound

Upgrading your Kia Soul’s sound system is a rewarding project that enhances your everyday driving experience. Whether you opt for simple speaker replacements or a complete audio overhaul, the improvements in sound quality will make your Soul even more enjoyable.

Remember to:

• Plan your system carefully
• Buy quality components that fit your vehicle
• Take your time with installation
• Protect your investment with proper wiring and installation techniques

With the right upgrades, your Kia Soul can deliver an audio experience that rivals luxury vehicles costing much more. The unique design and practical interior of the Soul make it an excellent platform for sound system customization.

Ready to get started? Begin with the upgrades that fit your budget and goals, and you can always expand your system over time as your interests and budget allow. Your perfect driving soundtrack awaits!

Frequently Asked Questions About Kia Soul Audio Upgrades

Q: Will upgrading my sound system void my warranty? A: If done properly, audio upgrades should not affect your vehicle’s warranty. The Magnuson-Moss Warranty Act protects consumers in this regard, though damage caused by improper installation might not be covered.

Q: Can I keep my steering wheel controls with a new head unit? A: Yes, adapter interfaces from brands like Maestro, PAC, and Axxess allow you to retain factory steering wheel controls with aftermarket head units.

Q: How much power do I need for my speakers? A: For most aftermarket speakers, 50-75 watts RMS per channel provides excellent performance without risking damage. Always match your amplifier power to your speakers’ recommended power handling.

Q: Will adding a subwoofer drain my battery? A: A properly installed subwoofer system shouldn’t drain your battery while the vehicle is off. If you’re installing a high-power system, consider a capacitor or battery upgrade to manage the increased power demands.

Start your audio journey today and discover how much better your Kia Soul can sound with the right upgrades!