Best Pontoon Boat Sound Systems for 2021

Owning a pontoon boat means that you have endless activities to do in the water. You can invite friends over for a party, or spend your weekends with your family fishing or simply relaxing. Pontoon boat sound systems can greatly increase the quality of your time that you, your family, and friends spend on your boat.

In this article, we’ll help you pick from the best pontoon boat sound systems on the market.

Let’s dive in!

Why Is a Good Sound System Important in a Boat?

First of all, top-notch pontoon boat sound systems can withstand the elements to an impressive degree. With waterproof materials and solid construction, this system should stand upright for years.

Also, it’s essential that you buy a stereo system that offers crystal-clear sounds. As you know, all boats, including pontoons, produce some extra noise when they’re in the water. So, you’ll need to ensure that your sound system is powerful enough to cut through the noise.

What to Consider Before Buying a Pontoon Boat Sound System?

The first thing you should think about is the intended use. Do you want a basic sound system to play some calming music while fishing? Or are you looking for a high-end setup with LED lights and more features?

You’ll also have to consider the type of receiver you want. Some models are basic, while others are satellite-ready and GPS-enabled with touchscreens.

Next, you should make up your mind about the speakers.

Some speakers will offer a decent sound, which should be enough if you’re all about fishing. Others have awesome bass, which is great for parties but will scare off any fish you’re trying to catch. So, it’s all based on how you’ll be using your pontoon.

Other features that all good pontoon boat sound systems must have include durable materials, high power, and wide frequency response.

How Easy Is It to Install a Pontoon Sound System?

Some models are straightforward to install, while others require some experience on your part to get the work done. On average, setting up a basic sound system should take from two to four hours.

A more complex stereo system might take up to 12 hours to install.

What Are the Top Brands We’ll Review?

Now, we’re ready to recommend some of the best pontoon boat sound systems out there. We’ve made sure to pick top brands such as Sony, Kenwood, Boss, and JVC for their reliable features and unmatched performance.

Below is a summary of the eight products we’ll go over, with a more detailed review following after.

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Top 4 Marine Sound Systems for Your Pontoon Boat

Are you ready to learn more about each product in-depth? Without further ado, here are our top four candidates for the best pontoon stereo systems.

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Marine Sound System Reviews for Pontoon Boat

1. Sony Marine Boat Stereo Sound System

Our first pick is this marine stereo by Sony. Let’s find out why it’s made the top of our list.

We like that it has integrated Bluetooth 3.0 technology which allows you to receive calls after connecting it to your phone. Even better, it can connect to two compatible smartphones simultaneously.

Plus, the sound system supports numerous audio formats such as MP3, WMA, FLAC, and more. What makes it convenient is that it comes with a front USB port that works with iOS and Android devices.

With Siri hands-free control and 2-volt preamp outputs that enable future expansion, this stereo can be perfect for a modern family.

Pros

• Equipped with Bluetooth 3.0 tech
• Works with iOS and Android systems
• Hands-free control
• Made with humidity-resistant vinyl resin for maximum durability
• Midrange price

Cons

• Some users claim that the Bluetooth has stopped working after months of use
• Doesn’t support CDs

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2. Boss Marine Boat Stereo Sound System

This amazing boat stereo system by Boss is much more affordable than the previous one. Yet, it’s packed with many features to appreciate.

First off, it supports Bluetooth, USB connectivity, and has an SD and AUX port. Plus, this system is compatible with Spotify and Pandora so that you can listen to your favorite playlists while relaxing under the sun.

Second of all, the device is made with weatherproof materials that resist splashing water. Thanks to its UV coating, you can expect this little buddy to last for years.

For those who’d like to take their pontoons to the next level of fun, here’s your shot. This beauty is available with more than 16 million color illumination options to match your every mood.

Pros

• Supports Bluetooth, USB, and SD connectivity
• Multi-color illumination
• Compatible with music streaming apps
• Plays physical CDs
• Budget-friendly

Cons

• Tends to consume too much battery life

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3. Kenwood Marine Boat Stereo Sound System

Ready for another noteworthy marine sound system to capture your attention? This one by Kenwood has plenty of qualities that we like.

For instance, it’s got built-in Bluetooth as well as Alexa to answer your musical wishes. Another huge plus point is that you can connect it to up to five Bluetooth devices. This makes it one of the best family-friendly options on the market.

If you’re not interested in using Bluetooth, you can always use the USB or AUX port for faster and easier connectivity.

The sound system is also available with three 4-volt pre-outs to help you get as much power as possible for your speakers.

Pros

• Compatible with Amazon Alexa for hands-free control
• You can connect it to five Bluetooth devices
• Comes with three 4-volt pre-outs
• Straightforward display with multiple color combinations
• Moderately-priced

Cons

• Doesn’t play CDs
• Requires an external antenna for a good radio reception

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4. JVC Marine Boat Stereo Sound System

This marine stereo system by JVC is another great option to consider. Let’s find out what’s so special about it.

It connects to your Bluetooth device to allow you hands-free talking and music streaming. Plus, you can reach out to internet services such as Pandora and SiriusXM with it.

Even better, it’s compatible with devices that use iOS 8. So, whether you’ll be taking your iPhone or iPad along on your marine journey, you can play your favorite tracks either way.

We also like that it has a power output of 50 watts to ensure a high volume that competes with the boat’s noise. Along with this incredible performance, you’ll get three sets of 4-volt preamp outputs to wire your speakers.

Pros

• iOS device compatibility
• Works seamlessly with Pandora and SiriusXM
• Comes with a 50-watt output for better performance
• Mid-tier price

Cons

• Doesn’t connect to more than one phone simultaneously

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Top 4 Marine Speakers for Your Pontoon Boat

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Marine Speaker Reviews for Pontoon Boat

Now it’s time to choose the best speakers to go with your sound system. Are you ready to take a look at our top four options?

1. Sony 160 Watt, 6.5” 2-Way Marine Speakers (White)

Sony keeps impressing us with its creations, and these marine speakers are no exception. So, what makes them fascinating to every pontoon owner?

Firstly, they produce 70-watt output power. For your inner party lord, these beauties can give you awesome control and increased sound output to wow your friends.

Second of all, the grilles are removable so that you can paint them whatever color you’d like.

As for the materials, we’re glad to say that these speakers are IPx5 certified for marine use. This way, they’re resistant to water, salt, and even UV rays.

Moderately-priced and a breeze to install, these speakers might take your marine adventures to a whole new level.

Pros

• Powerful 70-watt sound output
• Detachable grilles enable you to change the color of the speakers
• Made from marine-grade materials to endure the elements
• Midrange price

Cons

• The sounds may start to distort after a couple of years of use

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2. Skar Audio 160 Watt, 6.5” 2-Way Marine Speakers (White)

Here’s another pair of top-notch pontoon speakers that might be suitable for your needs. These Skar Audio beasts can be perfect if you’re on a tighter budget, and they have many cool features to offer.

For example, they’re made of premium microfiber composite, which is one of the most durable materials you can find. Besides, with their unique domed design, the speakers help balance the output sound so that it’s crystal-clear.

We also like how they have a highly dynamic frequency response, which ranges from 57 to 20,000 Hz to give you a great sound quality.

With impressive performance and high-end materials, there’s no wonder why these speakers are so popular.

Pros

• Wide frequency range and high sensitivity
• Weather-resistant materials increase longevity
• Balanced output sounds due to the speaker’s domed shape
• Affordable price

Cons

• You may need to make the speaker hole a bit bigger so that they’ll fit in

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3. Kenwood 50 Watt, 6.5” 2-Way Marine Speakers (White)

These speakers are pretty awesome as well if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option. They’re lightweight, easy to set up, and have many specs to admire.

For instance, their frequency response is magnificent, ranging from 60 to 20,000 Hz. If you’re into multiple musical genres, this range can help you bring out the best of each track.

Also, the speaker cone is made of weather-resistant polypropylene plastic. Therefore, your speakers shouldn’t be affected by the exposure to elements. In terms of longevity, this product can last up to years by your side.

If you’re looking for a well-priced pair of speakers to accompany you on your pontoon cruises, this one by Kenwood is a good candidate.

Pros

• Water and weather-resistant construction
• High dynamic response
• Installation only takes about ten minutes
• Great sound quality
• Budget-friendly

Cons

• You may need to hand-sand the existing speakers’ hole for these speakers to fit in

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4. Kicker 150 Watt, 6.5” 2-Way Marine Speaker (White)

These Kicker speakers can offer you a lot in terms of performance, strength, and much more.

We couldn’t help but fall in love with their heavy-duty design. Made from rustproof stainless steel and weatherproof materials, they can withstand the sun, water, wind, and more.

The grilles, baskets, and cones have been UV-treated to enhance their resistance to different elements.

Also, the blue LED light can transform the atmosphere on your pontoon and give off glamorous vibes. Not to mention that the speakers support high and midrange sounds for a wonderful musical experience.

If you’re looking for a reasonably-priced set of speakers for your pontoon sound system, these could be a great fit.

Pros

• Heavy-duty materials with incredible weather-resistance
• Comes with blue LED light
• Awesome high and midrange sound quality
• Fits perfectly in most speaker holes
• Mid-tier price

Cons

• Some users found the negative terminal to be a lot smaller than they wanted

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Installing Pontoon Boat Sound Systems FAQs

Where to mount speakers on a pontoon boat?

Many people tend to mount their speakers under the seats of the boat, which isn’t the best solution since the sound will target your feet. Instead, we recommend that you install the speakers at ear level.

Thus, you should mount the boat speakers to the tow bar or on the steering console.

Where should I install the stereo head on a pontoon boat?

Ideally, you can mount the stereo head unit in the dashboard area. Another alternative is installing this unit in the cabin if your boat has one.

What should I take into consideration when installing a marine stereo head unit?

Aside from choosing the right location, you should pay attention to other things when installing your receiver.

For starters, you must mount a marine stereo system horizontally, not vertically. Not following this tip can damage the stereo head as well as any CDs that you insert inside it.

Another helpful hack is to mount the stereo head unit at a 20-degree angle even though most manufacturers recommend an angle of 30 degrees. It’s best if you allow an extra 10-degree angle for the rocking of the boat.

How to support a stereo head properly?

Most stereo units are heavy, so you’ll need to ensure that yours is stable enough to prevent breakage. Because most pontoon boats are made of fiberglass, installing a stereo might require you to reinforce the panel where you’ll be keeping it.

If you’ll be mounting your stereo to a thick wooden panel, reinforcement may not be necessary.

In all cases, remember to stabilize the stereo head from behind using the mounting stud that most units have at the back. Attach a metal strap to this stud, then secure the strap to a steady mounting location above the unit.

Pontoon Boat Sound Systems Wrap Up

We hope you enjoyed this overview of some of the best deals on pontoon boat sound systems and speakers you can get for your pontoon. Once you have a dedicated sound system for your water craft, it will be hard to think how you ever lived without it. We hope you have a great summer with your water craft, and for other great additions to your pontoon, check out our articles on pontoon accessories, party boat accessories, and floating water mats.